I generally require a 50% non-refundable deposit for all weddings and
outdoor events.
I do allow the forfeited deposit to be applied toward a mutually acceptable
make-up date.
During the pandemic, I have returned many deposits without questions.
Rich Sbardella
Stafford, CT

On Thu, Aug 19, 2021 at 5:04 PM Don Veino via Contra Callers <
[email protected]> wrote:

> Hi, to tail off what Donna said regarding your time investment - that's
> what I think is fair in such a situation.
>
> I'm sure many of us do events where you're supporting dance community
> friends for a special life event in a venue you know well. These gigs are
> where you're lucky to break even after expenses, but it's much the same
> effort as for a regular series gig. For these, "no contract" likely makes
> sense.
>
> Then there's the random person's "I want to have a [square | contra] dance
> for my wedding" gig where you need to spend much more time upfront and be
> clear about expectations both ways - IMO that's where a contract (or
> "Agreement" = both sides' responsibilities) helps. There's likely quite a
> bit of discussion with clients regarding their vision, what the programming
> would actually look like, sound requirements (with considerations and time
> spent outside the dancing portion, including ceremony venue speech & music,
> reception toast, etc.), schedule queries plus booking of musicians, what
> facility arrangements need to be covered (e.g.: power outlet(s) and where?
> performer meals?) and so forth. Putting all that in one compact agreed
> document can foster clarity for all.
>
> A recent outdoor wedding gig during this period involved 3 event dates
> (re-)planned over 18 months, requiring coordination of all involved parties
> for each date. As it turned out, the final date fell squarely within our
> governor's determined "safe" and "open" window for our state. We had a plan
> for distanced music and outdoor "podded" dancing. The client still decided
> to cancel the gig (but NOT their wedding). All agreed it was for the best
> yet hours of effort were spent. The talent shouldn't be the only party
> shouldering the risk/cost in such a situation.
>
> -Don
>
> On Tue, Aug 17, 2021 at 7:17 AM Mary Collins via Contra Callers <
> [email protected]> wrote:
>
>> May have been talked about already so forgive me if it has. I have been
>> contracted to call a wedding in Oct. Currently covid numbers are rising in
>> my area and the bride, groom and I have talked about vaccines (yes),
>> alcohol (no) and what if.
>>
>> Normally I do not require a deposit but I do expect payment upon arrival
>> at venue. The question is: what to request as cancellation payment.
>>
>> What do others put in your contracts regarding this?
>>
>> Thanks in advance.
>> Mary Collins
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