Selling More Optional EXTRAS and ADDONS for Functions & Events to increase average event spend

You can increase the VALUE and average spend for any Event or Function by offering more Extras and Addons. This will generally result in a much better event and your Venue will benefit from more word of mouth recommendations & repeat business.  Here are some effective tips for increasing the sale of Function Extras.

4 BEST WAYS TO SELL MORE EXTRAS & ADDONS

1. Make an A4 EXTRAS MENU – A MENU of Popular Function Extras with photos, a clear description and the price. Put the menu in the function pack, online and explain it again during the function organising phase.
2. Collect and Use great PHOTOS and VIDEOS on an Ipad or tablet to SHOW exactly what extras you are offering
3. Build a closer relationship with your clients and ASK event buyers what other extras they would like. try Upselling closer to the event.
4. See if you can find a SPONSOR or wealthy relative to pay for some of the ADDONS or EXTRAS

 

THE LIST OF ADDITIONAL THINGS YOU CAN OFFER & SELL FOR FUNCTIONS & EVENTS.

Here is a useful list of Addons and Extras for Functions, Events & Weddings:

START BY SELLING EXTRA FUNCTION TIME

• Sell Additional Function Time – By the Hour or Half Hour

SELL MORE ACCESSORIES & DECORATIONS

• Chair Covers
• Decorations & Balloons
• Table Cloths, Linen & Napkins
• Flowers and floral displays from Florist
• Banners – Sponsors Logos or a Photo Spot
• A Media Wall Photo Spot
• Large Lettering and Signage
• Branded Merchandise about the special event or venue

SELL MORE BEVERAGES

• Cocktails on Arrival – e.g. Mimosas, Mohitos, Espresso Martini or Aperol Spritz
• A Champagne Toast
• Wine Upgrade
• Ports and Liqueurs
• Spirits
• Cocktail of the Day

SELL EXTRA FOOD

• Grazing Table
• Antipasto platters
• Branded Cupcakes or Chocolates
• Cheese Display
• Donut Wall
• Choc Dip Fountain
• Icecream Bar
• Lolly Bar
• Dumpling Station
• Paella Station
• Meat on a spit
• Cake or Cake Cutting Service
• A Picnic Basket for offsite photo shoot
• A Pack of Pizza’s to go at end of night for the after party

SELL MORE ENTERTAINMENT & SPECIAL SERVICES

• Offer a DJ or MC
• A Magician or Amazing Act
• AV/ TV / Projectors
• Bonboniere or Gifts for attendees
• Dancing on Clouds – Dry Ice
• Additional Security Guards
• Special Lighting Effects
• A Photo Booth
• A Photographer
• Paparazzi Entry – Redcarpet and Pretend Media
• Arrival by Boat or special vehicle
• Car Hire for the getaway

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are event add-ons and extras?

Event add-ons and extras are optional upgrades that clients can add to a function, event or wedding package. These may include food stations, drinks upgrades, styling, entertainment, AV equipment, photography, extra room hire or additional event time.

What are the most profitable event add-ons for venues?

The most profitable event add-ons are usually upgrades with strong perceived value and manageable delivery costs. Examples may include beverage upgrades, extended function time, grazing tables, AV hire, photo booths, styling packages and late-night food options.

How can venues sell more add-ons for functions and events?

Venues can sell more add-ons by presenting extras clearly during the enquiry, proposal and planning stages. A simple extras menu with photos, prices and short descriptions makes upgrades easier for clients to understand and choose.

How should venues price event add-ons and extras?

Venues should price event add-ons based on cost, labour, supplier fees, demand and perceived value to the client. Clear pricing helps clients make faster decisions and reduces confusion during the booking process.

What should be included in a venue extras menu?

A venue extras menu should include food upgrades, beverage upgrades, styling options, AV equipment, entertainment, photography, photo booths and extra event time. Each add-on should include a short benefit-focused description, price and image where possible.

What wedding add-ons do couples usually pay extra for?

Couples often pay extra for wedding add-ons that improve atmosphere, photos or guest experience. Popular options include champagne on arrival, floral styling, special lighting, photo booths, upgraded drinks, late-night snacks, dry ice effects and premium décor.

What food and beverage upgrades can increase event spend?

Food and beverage upgrades that can increase event spend include grazing tables, dessert stations, late-night snacks, cocktail upgrades, premium wines, champagne toasts and spirits packages. These add-ons work well because they are easy for clients to understand and directly improve the guest experience.

How can venues use photos to sell event upgrades?

Venues can use photos to show clients exactly what add-ons look like at real events. Visual examples of grazing tables, lighting, room styling, dessert stations or photo booths can make upgrades feel more tangible and easier to buy.

When should event add-ons be offered during the sales process?

Event add-ons should be offered during the initial proposal, venue tour and final planning stages. Some clients may choose extras early, while others become more open to upgrades once the main booking is confirmed.

How can venues upsell event add-ons without being pushy?

Venues can upsell event add-ons without being pushy by recommending only the extras that match the client’s event goals, budget and guest experience. The salesperson should explain the benefit of each upgrade rather than simply listing more things to buy.

How can venue tours be used to upsell event packages?

Venue tours can help upsell event packages by showing clients where upgrades would fit into their actual event. Salespeople can point out options such as lighting, styling, food stations, AV equipment or photo areas and explain how they improve the function or wedding.

How do event extras increase venue revenue?

Event extras increase venue revenue by raising the average spend per booking without requiring a new customer. Well-chosen add-ons can also improve the guest experience, which may lead to better reviews, referrals and repeat bookings.

Related training

• Wedding Venue Sales Training — enquiry handling, venue tours, packages and follow-up for wedding enquiries
• Function and Event Sales Training — all of Big Hat’s function and event sales training in one place