Okay, having a emotional breakdown

Whoa. That does all sound pretty shady. The part of him living upstairs kind of creeps me out, but I guess it's not so different from a bed and breakfast type of thing. Still, when it's not something you know going into it, it's a bit weird. It sounds like he's trying to squeeze extra money out of you where ever he can which is not cool.

 

If the whole experience you've had with him so far is really unsettling to you, then I think you should definitely consider changing venues if it's at all possible. I know $1300 isn't a small amount to lose, but if you are really having doubts I think you should pay attention to that.

 

The bride that gave the place a positive review... do you know her? I mean, is she on this forum and do you think the review was honest? Because if you can't change venues, then perhaps you can focus on the fact that other's have had a good experience and try to make the best of it.

Wow, this guy sounds seriously untrustworthy. I am so sorry that you are having to go through this. You do not need this, as wedding planning is stressful enough! Since there's no contract, I don't see how he can enforce this 8 person payment rule... Did you pay the deposit with a credit card? You could call the credit card company and ask them to hold payment... PayPal is also very good at handling these situations in case you used them to pay.. I really hope everything works out! Your wedding only happens once, so trust your gut, if doesn't feel right, walk away. You might be able to take him to small claims court for the $1300 deposit since it was his misleading business tactics that led you to walk out.

sounds like there should have been a contract in place and that there should have been a lot of things stated that were not, but I keep reading posts about how beautiful this place is.. i say make the best of it! i think everything will turn out great, the guy and his wife cant be all that creepy if other brides on here have used the place and said rave things!!... right?! Good luck with whatever you do!

Just so you're aware, post-dating checks is actually illegal. When I worked in banking and had to deal with overdrafts, people would constantly complain to me that the check should never have been cashed because it was post-dated. Sorry, but once you write that check, you're stating that the money is available in your account. Tellers look at the date to make sure the check is still valid (some checks state that they are only good for a certain number of days), but don't care if the date is in the future. Just wanted to let you know that so you don't ever get caught up in that.

Thanks for the heads up on that Kristy! I honestly didn't know that! I guess I wouldn't have thought of it since I'm used to dealing with them while renting housing during school years back, but I've also been on the end of having had a cheque cashed too early (two months early!!) so I can see why that would be a hassle at the bank.

Sorry for the incorrect advice Sgt.Pepperette! Hopefully you don't have to resort to any extremes and get to enjoy the rest of your planning!

This guy wants it both ways!!

 

He didn't have a contract and he's holding you to "word of mouth" regarding the 8 people.. yet it means nothing to him that he did not disclose the extra costs until after you paid your deposit!

 

How did you pay your deposit? If by chance you did it by paypal I would open up a SNAD dispute (significantly not as described) -- it seems as though he added on fee after fee AFTER your deposit and that is not okay. You paid the $1300 deposit with an understanding that the total would be x dollars and he changed it after the fact.

 

There are laws to protect you from this, contract or not. He can't advertise one thing and then charge you another.

 

If you paid by check you would definitely need to do the small claims route should you choose to contest it.

 

I think maybe you should have a heart to heart with him and explain that you were going by the information on the website (take a screen capture of it before he changes it) and the website did not mention the fee for every person beyond 2 people.

 

Best of luck!

i know it seems like one thing after another but once everything is sorted it will be better.how much have you paid?if it is making you miserable now and you are not going to rest up until your big day and the worry is going to ruin your day is it worth changing your venue?i know money is very tight but is it worth it?

 

failing that get something in writing off him confirming everything then at least you have something to go back to him with if needs be.

hmmm this guy sounds like a jerk and could potentially cause you stress leading up to and possibly on the wedding day -- and believe me you're already gonna be running around like a mad woman so you certainly dont need anything else to worry about.

 

If you're dead set on having at this place then it's a matter of getting everything from this point out in writing. If you can stand to lose the deposit, or like other have said, can contest it on your credit card -- then I would say change the venue and keep your peace of mind in tact. Sometimes your sanity is worth a loss of dollars.

 

I'm sorry you're having to go through such a horrible time with this guy -- he sounds like he's trying to nickle and dime you for everything = JERK! Plus I gotta say the whole living upstairs thing is weird and I'd feel totally awkward about that too.

ummmm id be inclinded to go with the good wedding review.Did you ask her what she did about the marshland?I think i remember your post and piccs about the house it did look fab.Id chat with the guy to be sure that you do not pay any more and just ask that as there has been a misunderstanding BOTH ways could he waiver the extra time fee.I would just be a little concerned that he may pull the plug on you if you appear to be making waves ( JUST FROM HIS VIEW POINT) not mine and also if he finds you difficult, again from his misguided viewpoint he may hang around all day.Have you spoken to his wife she may of course be just like him but also could become an allie and be helpful.Of coure your other guests could arrive down there and want to stay.Im sure it will work out just fine. Sending you good vibes xx

So my FI called the guy. We had a list of questions of every little detail, a time line, and everything in between. They talked it out, and than FI followed up with an email to confirm, and we should have no more surprises. He will be leaving the day of the wedding, so that eases things a bit for me. He said that his wife and him always do during weddings to give more privacy. As my FI was talking about certain things about the wedding to the guy did offer up extra things for us to use at no cost such as lights, sun umbrellas, chairs, etc. When my FI talked to him about things he wanted, like how long the reception would be, the guy had no problem with it. He also went into some "horror" stories with my FI about previous renters. Sort of makes me feel like I was being a bridezilla. lol But he defintely has some shadiness to him. I will say when you talk to him hes a schmoozes you, he did it to me!

 

My FI says he feels good with the guy, and I said as long as you do I trust you. I dont plan on dealing with the guy, Ill leave that to my FI.

 

This guy requires certified check for all payments, so I couldnt put a stop on payments or anything like that. And I noticed he has already updated his website with some small fine print. For now Im not saying anything, but after the wedding Im defintely going to give him suggestions on "running his business". The website he uses allows reviews so Ill probably mention something in there to.

 

Thanks for the posts, I appreciate it! Its very true that I fell in love with this place for a reason and in the end everything will be just right