The Curious Case of Venue Contracts: What You Must Read Before You Sign
Weddings are all about dreams—grand entrances, twinkling lights, emotional pheras. But before the magic unfolds, there's one not-so-dreamy document that could make or break it all: the venue contract.
Yes, we know. It's not as thrilling as choosing your lehenga or deciding between a live band or DJ. But just hear us out: one misused clause and you might be dealing with a wet baraat or worse—no baraat at all.
Here's an entertaining, no-nonsense guidebook for every bride, groom, or bewildered cousin to decipher that enigmatic pile of papers before you sign on the dotted line. Particularly if you are reserving a wedding venue in South Delhi or Gurgaon—where the stakes (and prices) are high and the fine print is even finer.
1. The Date Dilemma: Is Your Booking Solid?
You've done the recce, won over the parents, and fantasized your entry more than once. But wait—does your contract promise your wedding date? Always confirm that the precise date (and time slot) is specified. In peak locations such as South Delhi and Gurgaon, venues will run back-to-back weddings. If your timing isn't secured, you could find yourself getting the post-lunch time slot when people are drowsy and the photographer is famished.2. The Guest Count Game: What Happens If You Add a Few Hundred More?
We Indians are aspirational where guest lists are concerned. What begins with 300 ends with 600 and a WhatsApp group full of "just friends." But Gurgaon and South Delhi venues have strict capacity guidelines.Ensure your agreement clearly stipulates the number of guests permitted, and what happens if you go over it. Are there surcharges? Will they shut people out? Will your uncle be ejected in the middle of samosas?
3. What's Included… and What's "Optional at Extra Cost"?
This is where most couples get caught. You're thinking you're paying for an all-inclusive site—finds out, chairs cost extra. No, seriously.Make sure to read carefully what's included in your rental:
- Furniture (chairs, tables, stage)
- Power backup (particularly vital during monsoons)
- AC/heating
- Cleaning services
- Parking attendants
- Security
4. Refund and Cancellation: What If Plans Change?
In a post-pandemic economy, flexibility is king. Ask about return policies, cancellation windows, and if your prepayment is negotiable. Some halls will enable rescheduling for a price; others will hold onto your deposit even if your cousin eloped and the wedding was cancelled.5. Timing is Everything: Read the Clock Carefully
Is your agreement 4 PM to 11 PM? Fine. But inquire:- When can the vendors start setup?
- Is there an additional fee for music in the wee hours?
- What if the baraat is late (which it inevitably is)?
6. Hidden Clauses: The Fine Print Fiasco
Be careful of:- Damage deposit clauses
- Liability clauses (what if a guest falls?)
- Alcohol restrictions
- Exclusivity vendor rules (can you bring your own photographer or do you have to use theirs?)
Skim-reading the contract is boring, I know, but so is fighting about damages on your honeymoon.
Your wedding venue agreement isn't paperwork alone—it's your safety net. It guards your investment, your dream, and your special day. Whether you're reserving a green Gurgaon lawn or a heritage haveli in South Delhi, read with care, ask questions, and if necessary, get a second set of eyes on that agreement.
Because no one wants to fight over overtime charges while holding a varmala.
If you want any help planning your wedding, reach out to us at (+91) 8800093444 or email us at [email protected] or visit our website at www.getyourvenue.com
