Ah yes, you’ve found the absolute perfect venue after all of that research and you are chomping at the bit to finally sign. Plus, you know you can start REALLY planning once the venue has been chosen. But before you nail down your final wedding location, there are a bunch of things you need to review regarding the venue and contract. Venues here in Israel love to tack on added costs down the line if they think they can, and by that time you are kind of stuck. Plus, we’ve heard some pretty awful horror stories that could have easily been avoided.
Follow these helpful tips so that your wedding venue is just that place where you experienced the happiest moments of your life:
1. Understand EXACTLY what is included in the price you are paying. Does the price include waiter services? Chuppah rental and decorations? Light and sound? Alcohol? Decorations? Bar men? Security?
2. Ask if there are late hour fees. The last thing you want is a raging party and a big fat check welcoming you at the end of the night.
3. Check if you are obligated to use their vendors and which vendors you can bring in. If you’re interested, confirm that you can bring your own alcohol.
4. Review and be aware of the cancellation terms of the venue.
5. Make sure they have third party insurance (bituach toad gimmel) so that you are protected from injuries to the guests or the vendors at your wedding. Also, confirm that they have a valid license.
6. Ask if there is a minimum number of guests allowed. Some people make the mistake of only asking about the maximum, and are stuck with paying for plates that no one is using.
7. If you are flexible with the date, find out which season and days of the week are cheapest. Costs can be brought down significantly on specific days of the week.
8. Ask what the price difference is between buffet and sit-down.
9. What is the waiter to guest ratio?
10. Find out if the price they quote you includes VAT (value added tax).
11. Ask if they will have someone restocking and cleaning the bathroom throughout the night.
12. Make sure to get EVERYTHING in writing. Some venues hand out promises like they hand out hors d’oeuvres, and then don’t follow through. Once you have something in writing in the contract, you have proof of their commitment.
Best of luck and we hope you find the perfect venue!