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.
For the mentioned gig the deposit was less than 50%. The same policy was applied - so long as they wished to reschedule, the deposit amount rolled forward. After the third date was agreed they later chose to go ahead with the rest of the event, just cancel the dancing. They were cheerfully refunded the vast majority of the deposit and, should they choose to book for the suggested first anniversary barn dance, the small amount retained might be applied.
During the pandemic, I have returned many deposits without questions.
Yep, common decision. Though this might sound argumentative, it's not meant as such... just genuinely curious. In what situation would you *not* refund a "non-refundable" deposit?
Rich Sbardella
Stafford, CT