Hidden Venue Fees That Brandt 1910 Won’t Charge You
Photos in this Post by: Rocking C Photography
After being on the other side of event planning for more than 15 years, I was tired of going to venue after venue with high hopes for transparent pricing only to be let down by the fine print, additional charges, and high spend requirements. That’s why when my husband and I opened our own wedding venue, Brandt 1910, I decided we would stick to an honest and transparent pricing model. What a concept!
Planning a wedding or hosting an event is an exciting experience, but it comes with its fair share of unexpected events. Among these, hidden venue fees often take center stage. Many venues lure event planners, brides, and couples with seemingly affordable prices only to reveal a long list of extra charges buried in the fine print later. At Brandt 1910 near Katy, we take pride in doing things differently. Transparency, hospitality, and simplicity are woven into everything we do, especially when it comes to our pricing.
We believe that the venue you choose should enhance your celebration, not add to your stress with unexpected costs. This blog will unveil some of the most common hidden fees other venues charge that you won't encounter at Brandt 1910. This piece will help you avoid the pitfalls of extra expenses and shed light on our transparent approach for your wedding.
Hidden Expenses To Look Out For With Other Houston Area Venues
Trust me, I don’t want to call out any venues or speak ill of anyone who is making an honest living as a venue manager, but I do not want couples to choose a wedding venue based on price only to be let down by unexpected expenses. When touring venues, you might be dazzled at first glance by the ambiance and offerings, but digging into the contract can reveal expenses that make your dream venue less affordable than it seemed. Here’s a breakdown of fees many venues charge but Brandt 1910 does not.
1. Setup and Breakdown Fees
Picture this: you’ve invested in a beautiful venue and a talented venue manager to help you bring your vision to life. Then, you find out you’ll have to pay an extra fee for setup and breakdown services, more if you want to set up the day before, or even a walk-through fee to review your table layout. At Brandt 1910, we consider setup and breakdown part of the event hosting process. Whether it’s adjusting tables, arranging seating, or ensuring everything is cleaned up afterward, you won’t find additional charges for these essential services.
✨Brandt 1910 Bonus: So long as there is not an event the day before yours, you are welcome to setup the day before and take home any personal belongings the day after, so long as there is not an event that day.
2. Cleaning Fees 3. Choose a Venue that Fits Your Budget and Style Brandt 1910, a destination venue just outside of Houston
Many venues tack on cleaning fees to their invoices, leaving couples frustrated at paying more for what they believed was already included. At Brandt 1910, we handle post-event cleanup at no extra cost. You get to enjoy your celebration while we ensure the venue is left spotless behind the scenes.
3. Parking Fees 4. Opt for Affordable All-Inclusive Packages
Parking might not be the first cost that comes to mind when booking a venue, but at other locations, parking fees can become a surprising burden for you or your guests. This is one of many cost-saving benefits you get when you choose a venue, like Brandt 1910, that is outside the city limits.
4. Outside Vendor Fee or “Vendor Surcharge”
It’s your event, and you should have the freedom to choose vendors you love. While we have a long list of preferred vendors we are happy to recommend to you, and even an exclusive list of vendors we love that have been included in our All-Inclusive Package, this is your day, and we don’t want to get in the way of your vision. Some venues impose extra fees or surcharges for using outside vendors, forcing you to rely on their in-house options. Not at Brandt 1910. We believe in flexibility and empower you to collaborate with your favorite vendors without penalizing you for your choices.
5. Minimum Spend Requirement
Many venues require customers to meet high minimum spending limits on catering or bar options. While this may align with their business model, it can complicate your wedding budgets. Brandt 1910 doesn’t impose minimum spend requirements. You can craft the event of your dreams at your own pace and within your budget.
6. Engagement and Bridal Photo Fee
The process of capturing life’s most significant moments starts long before the big day itself. Many venues charge additional fees for engagement photo shoots or bridal portrait sessions when taking place at their venue. At Brandt 1910, we encourage you to capture these precious moments at our venue with no extra cost. Get the bridal photos you want without feeling rushed on your wedding day.
7. House Linens and A/V Equipment Charges
Often, venues charge extra for essentials like linens or audio-visual equipment, turning necessities into unplanned expenses. We provide house linens and A/V equipment (speakers, microphones, podium, and a 15-foot projector and screen) as part of our standard package. From connecting your event playlist to dressing your tables, we’ve got you covered without adding surprising fees.
✨Brandt 1910 Bonus: If you’re looking for an even more elevated experience, ask about Brandt 1910’s All-Inclusive Package that includes your wedding DJ, Emcee, DJ Booth, and Dancefloor Lighting by the talented professionals at The Deluxe DJS.
8. Venue and Bar Supply Costs
Toilet paper, napkins, ice, water, cups, and straws may seem standard, but shockingly, many venues bill for these under additional supplies. At Brandt 1910, these items are always included, so you can focus on enjoying your event, not tracking down overlooked essentials or panic shopping on Amazon when you realize these items are not included.
9. Site Manager Presence
A site manager ensures everything runs smoothly during your event, but many venues charge extra for this vital support. Having a site manager is important; after all, you need someone there to tell your vendors where to park and how to hook into the outlets! At Brandt 1910, you’ll always have a dedicated site manager on-site during your rental to assist with any questions or last-minute adjustments, all included within the venue rental fee.
Why Choose Brandt 1910 for Your Houston Area Wedding?
Two things really used to rub me the wrong way when I was on your side of the table and planning events: hidden fees and waiting at the bar for a water (that’s for another blog post). Rest assured, this former event planner has you covered and Brandt 1910’s transparent cost structure will set you at ease.
Hidden costs are not just an annoyance; they can sour what should be one of life’s most joyful occasions. By booking Brandt 1910, you gain more than a venue. You join a community inspired by tradition, hospitality, and exceptional service.
With us, you’ll find:
- Historic charm paired with event-ready facilities
- Warm and accommodating staff who treat every event like their own
- Flexible, transparent packages tailored to your unique needs
- No surprises, just seamless planning and execution
Long before you walk down the aisle, rest assured that at Brandt 1910, we will provide an affordable and welcoming space curated for unforgettable memories.
A Transparent Approach to Venue Pricing
At Brandt 1910, our philosophy is rooted in hospitality and transparency. Our rental fees include everything we believe is essential to providing an optimal event experience. That means you won’t encounter surprise invoices or sudden added charges halfway through planning. From the moment you book to the conclusion of your celebration, we work hard to create an enjoyable, seamless experience.
Plus, as a venue with deep historical roots and a nostalgic charm, we give your event a timeless backdrop while keeping the modern conveniences you need. Our historic facilities are designed to complement your style without complicating the budget.
Plan the Perfect Event Without the Fine Print
Your dream event doesn’t have to come with extra costs or financial surprises. The hidden fees often charged by other venues are just one reason why Brandt 1910 stands apart in Houston’s wedding venue scene.
We invite you to visit us and see why couples, planners, and organizations are choosing Brandt 1910 for their most cherished celebrations. Contact us today to schedule a tour or inquire about availability. Together, we’ll make your dream event a reality, free from hidden fees and extra charges.
Contact Us for a Tour of Brandt 1910
(979) 217-1772
info@brandt1910.com
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our photo gallery, pricing details, or testimonials from happy couples who’ve walked down the aisle at Brandt 1910. #Brandt1910, #Brandt_1910