22 Sept 2026 · 4 min read
Budgeting an event per guest, without surprises
Room, package, extras, VAT and service charge in one table.
Budgets usually grow on three lines: extras added late, more guests than planned, and taxes nobody counted.
Start from a per-guest package
An all-in package — room, food and AV — is easier to control than hiring the room and ordering everything separately.
Allow for VAT and service
If prices exclude them, add 7% VAT and the 10% service charge on food and drink from the start.
Lock numbers seven days out
The confirmed number is what you pay for; leave about 5% headroom for extra guests.
