I need your help...what are some questions to ask the catering hall when negoiating?

These are the questions I asked

Dates Available:
Capacity:
Minimum for room:
How much are vendor meals?
Are kids half price?
What ages?
Any limit on number of ½ price kids?
Vendors included in minimum?
Are kids included in minimum?
How early can bridal party arrive:
What time will ceremony begin?
Ceremony fee? TRY TO GET THIS REDUCED OR FREE
Ceremony location:
Can we have a rehearsal the night before?
If not, when?
When can vendors arrive to set up?
Bridal Suite size & location:
Number of Concurrent Events:
If more than one event: separate bathroom facilities?
Is Champagne Included throughout the reception?
Liquor – top shelf? (Names?)
Are candles allowed?
In-house Wedding Planner?
Photography/Florist – recommendations?
Can we use others vendors?
Any fee for outside vendors?
Insurance requirements for vendors?
Does hall need proof of insurance?
Wedding Cake included?
Any limitations on flavors/fillings?
Cake cutting charge for outside cakes? if so ask that it be reduced or eliminated
Number of Entrée Options
Can we have a tasting
When is final menu picked?
Any decorations included?
Centerpieces/Cocktail hour tables?
Do we get a credit if not using centerpieces? How much?
Linen colors:
Ratio of Guests/Servers:
What will waiters wear?
Bridal attendant included?
Number of Bars and Bartenders
Coat Room and Rest Room Attendants?
Is cost included?
Table Size (number):
Table shape:
Maximum Number of Tables for room:
Valet – included or additional?
Dimensions of Dance Floor:
Dimensions of Room:
Separate Cocktail Room:
Overtime charges:
Gratuity – is it a set fee? Is it distributed amongst all of the workers?
Service charge % (number):
Is service charge taxed:
Hotel recommendations:
Direction cards provided? (get a copy for file)
Deposit amount
Method of payment:
Payment schedule and is a courtesy reminder sent?
Any tasting events or showcases before we book?
Can we see photos of hall in different seasons (get copies for file)
Timing for final head count
Can we upgrade if under minimum (no wasted dinners) i.e., cordials or upgrade entrees?
Cancellation and refund policy:
Smoking area?
Any renovations planned?
What/When?
Expected completion date?
Do not forget to check out the bathrooms:
***Take digital pics of the rooms and grounds for file

Add any Notes about this hall?

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Posted by danielleb

I asked if we received any discounts or upgrades if we used their vendors because they make money off the vendors on their list.

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The only things I heard re: this is house vendor meals are cheaper than other vendors. It is worth a shot to ask.

I'm not sure if it was on the list, but the minimum # of guests you have to pay for matters a great deal. Most Saturday nights are 150 min. if you haggle a bit, and they lower the min # you must pay for, it could save hundreds.

Just bring kdrainey with you silly!