What is a Minimum Guarantee?
A minimum guarantee is the lowest amount a provider will accept for an event booking. It ensures that providers can cover their costs and time for showing up, regardless of how much guests actually spend.
Example: A food truck with a $500 minimum means you agree to pay at least $500, even if guests only order $300 worth of food. If guests order $600, you pay $600.
Why Minimums Exist
Providers set minimum guarantees because:
- Travel costs — Driving to your venue takes time and fuel
- Prep work — Food needs to be prepared, equipment loaded
- Opportunity cost — They're blocking that date for you
- Staffing — Labor costs exist regardless of sales
How Eventini Shows Minimums
On every provider profile and in your cost breakdown, you'll clearly see:
- The minimum guarantee amount for your guest count
- Dynamic pricing based on your specific event size and location
- How the minimum applies (e.g., food only vs. full service)
Tips for Working with Minimums
Match your guest count
Choose providers whose minimums align with your expected attendance. Eventini shows you estimated per-person costs to help.
Encourage guests to eat
Let guests know food is available and when service starts. A simple announcement can boost participation.
Consider catering packages
If you want predictable pricing, choose a catering package with per-person pricing instead of open tab ordering.
Pro Tip
Using the "open tab" (à la carte) payment model? Eventini tracks sales in real-time during your event so you always know where you stand against the minimum.