The Secret Wedding Venue Expenses (and How to Save On Them!)
You’ve found the perfect wedding venue in Delhi NCR—lush lawns, crystal chandeliers, dreamy photo corners. The price looks good, the vibe is right, and you’re about to sign on the dotted line. But wait! Hidden costs can sneak up like that unexpected aunty who insists on a solo dance performance.
From overtime charges to service fees, wedding venues tend to have extras that can blow your budget out of proportion. Here's a lighthearted but useful guide to identifying those sneaky add-ons and making your Gurgaon or Delhi wedding trouble-free.
1. The "Service Charge" Shuffle
The Catch: Most places give you a per-plate price minus a substantial service charge—in many cases, 10% or more. Factor in the GST, and your bill blows up quicker than a baraat dhol rhythm.How to Avoid: Always request a "final per-plate cost inclusive of all taxes and service charges". Get it in writing before you remit an advance.
2. Overtime = Over-budget
The Catch: Indian weddings rarely end on time. Midnight pheras? Extended sangeet? Most Delhi NCR venues charge per hour after a set deadline.How to Avoid: Negotiate a grace period upfront or choose a package that includes late-night events. If your pheras start at 11 p.m., you’ll thank yourself.
3. Décor Limitations & Vendor Commissions
The Catch: Certain halls require you to engage their own decorators or pay a commission in case you bring your own team. Even when you are not concerned about décor, a simple stage design or mandap can make you pay more.How to Avoid: Check if outside vendors are permitted and if there are additional charges. A simple clause in your agreement can help you save thousands.
4. Generator & Power Backup
The Catch: Power hiccups are frequent, particularly in Gurgaon farmhouses or Delhi outskirts. Venues tend to hire generators at a high rental fee.How to Avoid: Request if generator fees are covered and inquire about fuel charges for longer periods. Better safe than dancing in the dark.
5. Corkage & Beverage Fees
The Catch: Bringing your own bottle to the party? Corkage fees per bottle or flat rates for offsite alcohol are charged by most venues.How to Avoid: If you need your specialty cocktails pouring, determine if paying corkage is more economical than their on-site bar package.
6. Parking & Valet Charges
The Catch: Indian weddings are big-fat, and so are their guest lists; parking ends up being a premium. Some places charge extra for valet services or extra parking space.How to Avoid: Insist on parking arrangements, get valet fees included in the package, and include it in invitations so guests don't go through stress.
7. Security & Cleaning Fees
The Catch: Post-event cleaning, additional housekeeping, or security staff can be charged separately—something many couples know only after the party's over.How to Avoid: Ensure your contract includes end-of-event cleanup and a specific number of security guards.
A wedding venue sets the tone for your fantasy day, but unforeseen costs can turn that fantasy into a budgeting disaster. Whether it's an opulent Gurgaon farmhouse or a sleek Delhi hotel ballroom, transparency is your friend.
Pro Tip: Negotiate your venue contract like a marriage contract—read each word, bargain courteously, and never hesitate to ask, "Is this the total amount including everything?"
Budget wisely, party vigorously, and save those rupees for the honeymoon rather than surprise bills. Your happily-ever-after is worth it!
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
