HONEST PRICING GUIDE

What Should My Event Actually Cost?

Let's talk real numbers. Not "it depends" deflections or "call for pricing" runarounds. Just honest ranges based on what we've actually paid for thousands of events.

The 60-Second Reality Check

Answer 4 questions. Get a ballpark. Stop Googling "average event cost"

and finding answers that range from $500 to $50,000.

What You're Actually Paying For

(And What You Can Skip)

Here's every line item you'll see on an event quote, translated into English.

We'll tell you what's negotiable, what's worth it, and what's BS.

Quick Disclaimer:

We're not here to replace detailed quotes. We're here to stop you from being wildly off-base when you start planning. Knowledge is power. Budget surprises are not.

The Sneaky Stuff That Inflates Your Budget

These aren't in the initial quote. But they're likely to show up.

Overtime charges

Most venues quote 4-hour events. If you run over, expect $150-$500/hour extra. (Set a phone alarm for 30 minutes before your end time.)

Vendor meals

If you hire outside vendors (photographer, DJ, florist), the venue often requires you to feed them. Add $25-$50 per vendor.

Cake cutting fee

Bringing your own cake? Some venues charge $2-$5 per person to cut and serve it. (Yes, really. Ask about this up front.)

Corkage fee

Bringing your own wine? Venues charge $15-$35 per bottle to open and serve it. (Sometimes worth it if you have special wines; often not.)

Parking

Urban venues may not include parking. If guests have to pay $20-$40 to park, factor that into their experience. (Consider venues with free parking or good transit access.)

Insurance

Some venues require you to purchase event insurance ($100-$300). It's usually worth it for peace of mind, but add it to your budget.

Delivery/setup fees for outside items

Bringing in your own decor/cake/favors? Some venues charge $50-$200 for "load-in coordination." (Ask about this before ordering 100 custom cupcakes.)

Damage deposit

$500-$2,000 held on your card until after the event. You'll get it back, but it affects your cash flow.