Key Clauses: Navigating the Essentials of Event Contracts

Careful venue contract negotiation is essential for protecting clients from liabilities and securing concessions that can save money, with contract lengths varying significantly and requiring reciprocal protection for both parties. Key clauses to negotiate include:

• Force Majeure for mutual disaster coverage and deposit return.
• Indemnification to ensure the client is not liable for issues they didn't cause.
• Attrition clauses managed by booking a smaller initial room block and negotiating closer to the date.
• Cancellation clauses with sliding scales and rescheduling options.

If the venue does not meet your needs, be sure to have a backup option to give you the flexibility to walk away, sometimes prompting them to revisit their proposal. Negotiating concessions such as discounts on food, beverage, or AV, free Wi-Fi, parking, and complimentary rooms can also be highly beneficial.

The specific negotiations will vary based on location and venue type, and working with an Inventures event manager can help navigate these details. Be sure all these items are addressed before signature!