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Venues & locations: Venue contracts

Read inclusions, minimums, payment schedules, cancellation and postponement before paying the deposit.

The key points

  • Everything promised in writing
  • Payment schedule in your calendar
  • Postponement terms
  • Insurance requirements

Read more about venue contracts

Quick answers

What is the difference between a retainer and a deposit?

A retainer usually secures the date and is often non-refundable; a deposit is typically credited toward the total. Terms vary, so check how your contract defines them.

Vendors & contractsAll questions

Is wedding insurance worth it?

It can be once you have paid significant deposits. Policies commonly cover postponement or cancellation for covered reasons and liability, and some venues require liability cover. Read the exclusions before you buy.

Budget & who paysAll questions

What should I ask on a wedding venue tour?

Capacity for your layout, what is included, all fees and minimums, rules, accessibility, parking, the rain plan and the payment and cancellation terms.

Venues & locationsAll questions

Are wedding deposits refundable?

Usually not. Read the cancellation clause before paying.

Vendors & contractsAll questions

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