Most event budgets miss the mark because no one talks about the hidden fees that quietly drain your client’s wallet… and your value.
May Yeo Silvers breaks down the overlooked costs that can quietly inflate an event budget, from taxable service charges to outdoor setup fees and AV vendor penalties. She shares real examples—including a $1,000 food and beverage minimum that turned into $1,375—and shows how venues often leave out key details unless you know exactly what to ask.
This episode gives planners the tools to spot red flags, educate their clients, and position themselves as strategic partners, not just executors. If you want to build trust, quote fees with confidence, and make smarter budget decisions, this one’s essential listening.
Quotes
• “When you are talking to your potential client or client about event budget, I always say, whatever they are paying to something else means they are taking away money from paying you.” (01:47 | May Yeo Silvers)
• “Is your service charge taxable? And I will guarantee you almost 50%, if not 75% of the venues, if not 100% of the venues that I work with, and I do events all around the country, the service charge is taxable.” (05:34 | May Yeo Silvers)
• “You always have to ask for the banquet menus and then look at the pricing based on how many people are coming and the type of food that you want to order and then come up with the actual number how much you’re going to spend.” (09:16 | May Yeo Silvers)
• “You are being an event strategist—helping your client plan their budget better. That is an intangible value you’ve added to yourself, which will make the client see your value more clearly and will reciprocate by paying you a higher fee.” (17:30 | May Yeo Silvers)
Links
There is SO much to learn about event planning. BUT what is going to separate you from your competitors is really understanding the nuances of event planning, such as the little titbits I shared on this episode that will have a HUGE impact on your client’s event budget which then translates to having more funds handy to make the event even more spectacular.
If you want to stand out from the crowd, follow me on the different platforms listed on the show notes for more event strategies and “event insiders” knowledge that your clients are going to love you for!
Connect with May at: [email protected]
Website: www.mayyeosilvers.com
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