Junior Rasmussen
Wedding venues are often the most expensive part of a wedding, with the average wedding in 2016 costing upwards of $35,000. As such, many couples seek to negotiate with venues to obtain discounts or upgrades. While some venues refuse to budge on costs, negotiation is an expected and common part of the wedding venue process, and some venues will be more flexible on pricing during off-peak seasons or on weekdays. To improve their negotiating position, couples can research prices at several venues and assemble a list of backup venues with better pricing.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Negotiating with wedding venues | Common and expected by venues |
| Average wedding cost in 2016 | $35,000 |
| Ways to negotiate | Discuss with multiple venues, know prices of other venues, be willing to haggle, ask for free upgrades instead of reduced prices, negotiate for off-season and weekday bookings, handle catering and alcohol yourself, waive certain fees, ask for recommendations to bring down the cost |
| Potential outcomes | Request for discount may be refused, may get a better deal, may get free upgrades |
| Tips | Do not show nervousness, do not attach emotions to the outcome, do not ask for the cheapest price, let the vendor know they are your number one choice, inform them of your budget, be ready to walk away |
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What You'll Learn
Ask for upgrades, not discounts
Wedding venues are in high demand, and popular venues are often booked months or even years in advance. However, this doesn't mean that negotiation is off the table. Many venues expect couples to negotiate with them on price, and it's common for them to be open to offering discounts or upgrades.
When negotiating, it's best to ask for upgrades rather than a reduced price. This could mean better food, drinks, or decorations. For example, a photographer may offer an engagement photo shoot, or a band may perform for longer. Asking for upgrades can be a more effective strategy than requesting a discount, as it often provides more value without reducing the venue's asking price.
To increase your negotiating power, consider the time of year and day of the week for your wedding. Off-season and weekday bookings can significantly improve your position, as there is less competition for the venue's services. Additionally, you can research multiple venues in your area to understand their pricing and use this information as leverage when negotiating with your top choice.
It's also beneficial to let vendors know that you are happy to have your wedding published in media outlets, as this is a valuable promotional opportunity for them. Be transparent about your budget and express your willingness to work with them to find a solution that fits within your financial constraints. Remember, negotiating is an art form, and it's essential to approach it respectfully and fairly.
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Negotiate with multiple venues
Wedding venues are often expensive, and negotiating is a common way to save money. However, it's important to approach the process strategically and be prepared for potential challenges.
Firstly, it's crucial to gather information and compare prices from multiple venues in the area, even if some are not your first choice. This gives you leverage in negotiations and shows that you have other options. Having a list of backup venues with better pricing can encourage your preferred venue to be more flexible.
When negotiating, it's natural to feel nervous or uncomfortable, especially if you are not experienced in this area. It's important to remain calm and confident, as appearing timid might lead the venue to refuse your request without losing your business. Detaching yourself emotionally from the outcome can help, although this may be challenging when planning such a significant event.
To improve your negotiating position, consider the time of year and day of the week for your wedding. Off-season and weekday bookings can significantly enhance your negotiating power due to reduced competition. Additionally, be open to negotiating specific services within the package rather than just the overall price. For example, you could suggest providing your own catering or alcohol, which can lead to significant savings.
Remember, venues expect couples to negotiate, and it's essential to ask for a better price if you want one. Be respectful and fair in your negotiations, and don't be afraid to make another offer if you're not satisfied with the initial counteroffer. If you have a coordinator, let them know that you are finalizing your choices and are determined to secure the best deal.
Lastly, be prepared to walk away if the venue is unwilling to meet your expectations. Ensure your counteroffer is reasonable and doesn't insult the venue manager. While negotiating can be challenging, it can also help you create your dream wedding within your budget.
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Avoid showing emotion
Wedding planning can be a stressful and emotional time, and it's understandable that you might feel anxious about negotiating with vendors. However, it's important to try and avoid showing emotion during these discussions to get the best outcome. Here are some tips to help you keep a level head:
First, remember that negotiating is a normal part of the wedding planning process. Wedding venues expect couples to negotiate with them on price, and it's common for couples to ask for discounts or upgrades. Recognising this can help take the pressure off and remind you that you are well within your rights to ask for a better deal.
Second, try to approach the negotiation with a sense of detachment. While it's natural to feel excited and emotionally invested in your dream venue, reminding yourself that there are other options can help you maintain a more objective perspective. This way, you can make decisions based on what makes financial sense, rather than purely on emotion.
Third, be prepared for rejection. It's possible that your requests may be refused, and that's okay. Remember that you are simply exploring options and seeking the best value for your money. If a vendor is unwilling to negotiate, you can politely thank them for their time and move on to consider other options.
Fourth, maintain a friendly and respectful attitude. While it's important to avoid showing emotion, you don't want to come across as cold or indifferent. Instead, aim for a friendly and professional demeanour. This will help you build a positive rapport with the vendor, increasing the likelihood of a successful negotiation.
Finally, practice makes perfect. If you're feeling nervous about negotiating, consider role-playing the conversation with a friend or family member beforehand. This can help you feel more comfortable and confident when it comes time to discuss prices with vendors. Remember, the more information you have, the better your negotiating position will be.
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Be prepared to walk away
Wedding venues are in high demand, and popular venues will book up regardless of the price. This means that venues are often unwilling to budge on costs, and you will need to be prepared to walk away if you are unable to reach an agreement.
If you are not ready to walk away from a venue that refuses to negotiate, you will not save any money. It is important to approach the negotiation with the attitude that you have other options, and you are willing to go elsewhere. This will help to reinforce the message that the venue needs to reduce their fees to secure your business.
To achieve this, research several venues in the area and find out their prices, even if you don't want to get married there. This will give you leverage in the negotiation and allow you to make a counteroffer if the venue refuses to lower their price.
It is also important to remember that wedding venues are a business, and they are likely juggling several clients at once. If a vendor shoots down one of your requests, try asking for clarity on what is possible and what isn't. This will help you understand their position and make an informed decision about whether to walk away or not.
Finally, don't be afraid to ask for a discount or a better price. Wedding venues expect couples to try and negotiate with them, and it is common to do so. If you don't ask, you will never know if there was room to negotiate.
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Book during off-peak times
Wedding venues are in high demand, and popular venues are often booked months or even years in advance. However, venues are more likely to negotiate during off-peak times, such as on weekdays or during the winter.
Booking during off-peak times can significantly increase your negotiating power as there is less competition for the venue's services. Venues may be more willing to offer discounts or upgrades during these periods to secure bookings.
If you are flexible with your wedding date, consider choosing an off-peak time such as a weekday or a month that is typically less busy for weddings, such as December or January. You can then approach your desired venue and ask if they have any special rates or packages for those dates.
Additionally, you can inquire about any empty dates that the venue may need to fill. This gives you an opportunity to negotiate directly with the venue and potentially secure a discount on your dream location.
Keep in mind that while negotiating, it is important to remain respectful and reasonable. Be prepared to walk away if the venue is unwilling to budge on their asking price, but also ensure your counteroffer is not too low, as this could be insulting or make your budget unrealistic.
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Frequently asked questions
Wedding venues expect couples to negotiate with them on price. It is common for couples to pay the asking price, but this means they miss out on potential savings.
It is important to have leverage when negotiating with a wedding venue. This means doing your research and talking to several venues in the area to find out their prices. You can also offer to bring in your own caterers or alcohol to reduce costs.
Don't go in with the expectation that you are entitled to a discount. This will likely result in the venue refusing your request. Instead, express that you value their service but are working within a budget.
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