Merry Brides: Jun 11, 2007

BARTENDING / BAR SET-UP FEE
Some reception sites and caterers charge an extra fee for bartending and for setting up the bar.

CORKAGE FEE
Many reception sites and caterers make money by marking up the food and alcohol they sell. You may wish to provide your own alcohol for several reasons. First, it is more cost effective. Second, you may want to serve an exotic wine or champagne that the reception site or caterer does not offer. In either case, and if your reception site or caterer allows it, be prepared to pay a corkage fee. This is the fee for each bottle brought into the reception and opened by a member of their staff.

Things To Consider:
You need to consider whether the expenses saved after paying the corkage fee justify the hassle and liability of bringing in your own alcohol.

FEE TO POUR COFFEE
In addition to the corkage and cake-cutting fees, some facilities also charge extra to pour coffee with the wedding cake.

Things To Consider:
Again, when comparing the cost of various reception sites, don't forget to add up all the extra miscellaneous costs, such as the fee for pouring coffee.

SERVICE PROVIDERS' MEALS

Things To Consider:
It is considered a courtesy to feed your photographer, videographer, and any other "service provider" at the reception. Check options and prices with your caterer or reception site manager. Make sure you allocate a place for your service providers to eat. You may want them to eat with your guests, or you may prefer setting a place outside the main room for them to eat. Your service providers may be more comfortable with the latter.

GRATUITY
It is customary to pay a gratuity fee to your caterer. The average gratuity is 15% to 18% of your food and beverage bill.