The Hidden Fees Checklist: What to Ask the Hotel Sales Manager
When negotiating with hotels, you are a corporate client. You need to approach the contract with the same intentionality as any other vendor. A "cheap" room rate isn't a deal if it comes with $50 in daily resort fees.
The "Look-For" List
- Resort/Facility Fees: Are these mandatory, and what do they actually cover?
- Parking Rates: Is there a discount for wedding guests?
- WIFI Charges: Is it free in the rooms or only in the lobby?
- Early Check-In Fees: If your ceremony is at 3:00 PM, guests will need to check in early. What is the cost?
- Porterage/Housekeeping Fees: Are these automatically added to the bill?
- Distribution Fees: Does the hotel charge a fee to hand out your "Welcome Bags" at the front desk?
- Attrition Clauses: What is the financial penalty if the block isn't 80-90% full?
- Cancellation Policy: What is the "Hard Date" for guests to cancel without a penalty?
- Taxes and Surcharges: Does the quoted rate include city and state occupancy taxes?
- Breakfast/F&B Minimums: Are guests required to purchase breakfast to get the group rate?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Signing without a 'Walk-In' Visit: Ensure the "Standard" rooms actually match the photos on the website.
- Ignoring the 'Cutoff' Date: Once the cutoff date passes, guests will have to pay the "Market Rate," which can be double your block rate.
What Couples Are Actually Saying
A recurring tip from r/TalesFromTheFrontDesk is that hotels are often willing to waive the "Welcome Bag" fee if you keep the bags simple and easy to store. On r/WeddingPlanning, couples report that checking the "Parking Fee" saved their guests from an unexpected $40/day expense.
Next Step in the App: Use this checklist during your hotel site visit and log your findings in Guest Accommodation, noting any fees not included in the initial quoted rate.