Barceló Bávaro Palace Set-Up Fee Shock: 5 Questions to Ask Before Your Punta Cana Wedding Contract
Barceló Bávaro Palace is one of Punta Cana’s most popular resorts for destination weddings, thanks to its expansive beachfront, luxury amenities, and range of ceremony locations. However, some couples are caught off guard by set-up fees—additional charges for arranging décor, furniture, and equipment for your ceremony or reception.
These fees can vary widely and, if not discussed upfront, may inflate your budget unexpectedly. This guide will help you understand what the set-up fee covers and the five essential questions to ask before signing your wedding contract.
What Is a Set-Up Fee?
A set-up fee is a charge for labor and logistics to prepare your event space. At Barceló Bávaro Palace, it can apply to:
Ceremony décor installation
Reception table and chair arrangement
Lighting and sound setup
Dance floor assembly
Placement of specialty rental items
Why Does the Resort Charge a Set-Up Fee?
From the resort’s perspective, set-up requires extra staffing, time, and coordination beyond standard wedding package inclusions. This fee ensures the space is prepared according to your specifications and within your timeline.
How Much Can It Be?
At Barceló Bávaro Palace, set-up fees can range from $300 to over $1,000 USD, depending on the size and complexity of your event.
5 Questions to Ask Before Signing Your Contract
Is the set-up fee included in my wedding package?
Does it apply to both ceremony and reception spaces?
What services are covered under this fee?
Can it be reduced if I use only in-house décor and rentals?
Is it charged per event or per day?
Strategies to Reduce or Avoid the Fee
Use the resort’s standard décor and furniture to minimize extra labor.
Simplify your design to reduce set-up complexity.
Negotiate during the booking phase, especially if reserving a large room block.
Work with a local planner like Sertuin Events who can manage some décor elements independently.
Common Mistakes Couples Make
Not asking about set-up fees until after signing.
Assuming all décor installation is included in the package.
Hiring external vendors without understanding the resort’s coordination costs.
People Also Ask
1. What is the average set-up fee at Barceló Bávaro Palace? Between $300 and $1,000+, depending on event complexity.
2. Can the fee be waived? Sometimes, especially for larger weddings or during low season.
3. Does the set-up fee include tear-down after the event? In most cases, yes, but confirm with your coordinator.
4. Is the fee taxable? Often, yes—check with the resort.
5. Does using only resort décor eliminate the fee? It can reduce or remove it, but verify before booking.
Final Thoughts
Set-up fees at Barceló Bávaro Palace don’t have to be an unwelcome surprise. By asking the right questions before signing and working with experts like Sertuin Events, you can ensure your wedding vision is executed beautifully without unexpected costs.
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