Seastrom Manufacturing

First off, in the year 2015, we have had over 50 weddings.  We have not had one wedding or event that we charged any clients for items such as dinnerware, tables, chairs, tablecloths,  napkins, setting up or taking down  a buffet table.  It is simply not our policy and is not...

stated in any informational packets or contracts that we supply to our contacts.  We can prove this by providing invoices.   The only exception to this, is if our client requests to have chair covers with ties added for decorating purposes.  In regards to decorations, it was stated to her that we do allow our guests to bring in their own.  There are no charges for them to do that, unless it is required that we put them out/assemble them for them.  The charge for that is $100.  We also do have decorating packages available with our equipment that we rent out to clients for the charges stated on the menu, but again, we do allow them bring in their own.   In regards to security fees, that is a fee that is stated on our informational packet, as well as on every contract.  When presenting a contract, we do highlight particular items stated on the contract such as:-          Security Fees-          We prohibit any guests to bring in their own food and alcohol to any events (except for a wedding cake)-          When a guarantee guests number needs to be provided-          That all deposits are non-refundableIt is of my opinion that we cannot force someone to fully read items stated on a contract, but we do make a point to highlight these items when they are presented the contract.  In my opinion, our contracts are readable and easily understood, as it is broken up into 6 sections and includes areas that are highlighted in bold.  When the possibility of a cancellation was made aware to me, I instructed [redacted] that we could waive the security officer fee.  The reason we only offered to waive the security fee (which is a mandatory fee) is because outside of food, beverage, tax, and service charge, there are simply  no other mandatory fees that we charge (such as room rental, plates, dishes….everything listed above).   We also offered to have the deposit transferred to another date, which is above and beyond what our contract states, as there is slim possibility that we could rebook the date that they originally wanted (see contract section related to Cancellations). I am attaching a copy of the informational packet that we provide to our guests, along with a copy of the contract.  Please note that the contract was not signed by Miss [redacted] herself.  I would also ask you to take special note of the last page of the informational packet, which clearly defines the items we do charge for, and items that we do not charge for.  We developed this page knowing that the items Miss [redacted] are describing as hidden fees are charged by some of our competitors, but not by the Roma Lodge.  It is out way of pointing out the value of our facility to others. Thank you for your time in regards to this matter.  Should you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me personally at [redacted]  Grazie! [redacted] - General ManagerRoma Lodge Banquet & Conference [email protected]