Why are you cheaper than the in-house AV quote?
Because the in-house provider pays the hotel a commission — 30 to 50% of the invoice, per Encore's own SEC filing. That commission has to come from somewhere, so it gets baked into the rate. We don't have that cost. Same gear, different math. A typical $35K in-house ballroom event lands at $13,500 on our Production package.
Is there a commission anywhere in this?
No. We do not pay the hotel, the planner, or anyone else. The price you see is the price you pay. The hotel gets a separate rev-share if we are their white-label in-house partner — but that is a separate contract, not a hidden line.
What payment methods do you accept, and are there processing fees?
All major credit cards, ACH transfer, checks, and money orders. ACH and check have no processing fee. Credit and debit card payments add a 3% convenience fee, per our standard rental terms — the same fee most event vendors pass through to cover card processing. Payment is due before the rental or event date. A valid card is kept on file regardless of the invoice payment method.
What is your cancellation policy?
7+ days out: no penalty, full refund. Between 48 hours and 7 days: 50% fee. Less than 48 hours: full bill. Cancellations due to acts of God (illness, weather, death in the family, etc.) are charged only the actual costs we've already incurred, as long as the job is rescheduled within 3 months. If it isn't rescheduled, the fee is 25% of the order total. We're flexible when the world gets weird — call us.
Can I bring you as the outside AV to a hotel that has an in-house provider?
Yes. Encore's own SEC filing says planners 'retain the option to use outside providers.' Some hotels will charge a small outside-vendor liaison fee. We will help you negotiate that down or eliminate it as part of the room block.
Multi-day or week rate?
Every item has a 3-day week rate (3× the day rate, capped at the weekly number). Long-term rates (month, season) quoted per project. Recurring clients (4+ events/yr) get 10% off.
Lead time?
Essential: 7 days. Production: 2–4 weeks. Concert: 4–8 weeks. We do emergency same-day for existing clients when crews and gear are open.
Do you travel?
Yes. Anywhere on the East Coast and most of the Midwest. Travel costs (per-diem, lodging, fuel) are quoted per project and added to the package.