Know Your Event Worth: Negotiation Tips

Many times clients come to me after they have already started the planning process. While many of them are doing well, the majority have over shot their budget and agreed to vendor prices that are astronomical. Of course we recommend working with a planner from the beginning but if hiring a full service planner is out of the budget, invest in a Getting Started type package. It helps ground you and get started with negotiating within your budget.

If you are going out on your own without professional planning assistance, you've better know your Event Worth. So what is the tip to knowing your event worth? Realize that while your budget maybe be a stretch for you, every vendor does not work with clients on a budget and they participate in many events each year. So you have to know what your event is worth to each vendor you are working with.  Here are 5 tips to maximizing your event worth:

1. Are your dates flexible? If so, off seasons (like winter in Philadelphia or after Labor Day at the shore are great times to capitalize on venues trying to book less busy or undesirable days.
2. Is there a detail that is less important to you? If you "kind of" want videography but must have the best photographer you can afford, then why not choose a vendor for videography that is new to the business. They are normally less expensive, and would give your more options/services because you are giving them a chance... hey even the best vendors had to start as newbies at some point!
3. Choose a smaller venue for smaller events: While the very large and extremely massive venues do have an appeal, your event is worth more to a smaller boutique venue where your guests will get that personalized services and attention that a larger venue will not be provide.
4. Know your budget: If you budget $5k for florist budget, research vendors where $4k would be a good budget, this way if you find an add-on that you would love to have, you do not have to pass up.
5. Don't be afraid to ask for other options: When you find a venue or vendor that you love and their packages aren't right for you, don't be afraid to ask for what you want. For example, many venues have a set menu for buffet and sitdown meals, but if you want something less formal and for a lower cost, then you need to just go right out and ask for it.

As always, we are around to help you with more tips! Contact us if you are interested!
Happy Planning,
{Olivia}