Venues quote prices in three different ways, and comparing them is easier once you know what each one covers.
Minimum spend
You agree to spend at least a set amount on food and drink. If your group reaches it, you normally pay nothing extra for the room. If you fall short, the venue charges the difference. Bars, pubs and restaurants use this most often, and the figure is usually higher on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Hire fee
A flat charge for the space, for a set number of hours. Food, drink, staff and equipment may be extra. Halls, studios and blank canvas spaces usually work this way.
Per person
A package price for each guest, typically covering the room, food and some drinks. Hotels and conference venues often quote like this, and so do venues selling Christmas party packages.
How to compare
- Work out the total for your number of guests, not just the headline figure.
- Ask what is included: staff, service charge, equipment, cleaning.
- Check whether VAT is included in the price you were given.
- Ask what happens if your numbers go down.