Three pricing models. Here's how to compare.
The three models
1. Package pricing
"Wedding Essentials Package: 100-guest wedding (10 round tables + 100 Chiavari chairs + 10 linens + delivery + setup) = $2,400."
Pros: Easy to compare. Bundles everything.
Cons: Locked into package contents.
2. Itemized
"10 tables ($120) + 100 chairs ($600) + 10 linens ($150) + delivery ($200) + setup ($300) + breakdown ($300) = $1,670."
Pros: Customize freely. See exactly what you're paying for.
Cons: Add-ons stack. Comparing across operators is harder.
3. Per-item with minimums
Same as itemized but with $300-$500 minimum job size. Common for smaller orders.
What changes the price
- Premium colors / custom linens: $5-$15 / item premium
- Premium chairs (Chiavari, cross-back) vs folding: 2-3x
- Setup + breakdown labor: bundled or itemized
- Distance: out-of-zone +$1.50/mile
- Specialty add-ons: lighting +$300-$1,500, photo booth +$400-$1,000
How to compare quotes
Get all-in totals from each operator with same item list + delivery + setup. Don't compare itemized to package without normalizing.
The deposit reality
50% non-refundable at booking is standard. Balance 14 days before event.
The bottom line
Package pricing wins on simplicity. Itemized wins for customization. Whatever model: get all-in number in writing before paying deposit. Get quotes from multiple operators.