Anytime you are responsible for putting on a major event like a conference, wedding or exclusive dinner party, you certainly want to make sure everything goes off without a hitch. To give your event that little something extra, you have most likely been in the market for a valet service. After receiving several quotes and information on each prospective provider, it’s time to make a decision. When that time comes, there are five things you want to consider as part of the decision making process.
1. Employee Driving Records and Company Insurance – Given the valet company’s employees will be handling your and your guest’s vehicles, you are well within your rights to request information about the driving records of the employees that will be working your event. Furthermore, it is important for you to have a company official provide you with proof of insurance coverage on the employees as well as the vehicles under their care. You want to verify the policy is current and covers both liability and property damage issues.
2. Event Resources – To avoid any chance of confusion, you want to make sure any quote for the event includes the number of employees that will be working that night. If possible, you might want to get names as a way to make sure those who show up are authorized to be there. You also want to discuss beforehand what type of dress code the employees will be following. If you want them wearing uniforms, this would be the time to get it in writing.
3. Logistics – Depending on where the event is being held, it will be important to discuss where cars are to be parked and how you would like traffic flow to be handled. According to Central Texas Valet, “The valet company should be able to provide signs and markings to help your guests get the proper service without issue.” This is a particularly sensitive issue if your event is being held in a residential area.
4. Valid References – In order to assure the valet company is as advertised, you need to ask for several references. It would wise for you to request references from customers who ran an event similar to yours as far as number of anticipated guests and expectations.
5. Pricing – Once all the details have been ironed out, you want to get a precise quote for the event. Make sure the quote covers all contingencies, including starting time, number of employees, finishing time and the hourly cost for overtime. You also want to discuss beforehand whether or not tips are expected. Caution: You want a reputable and reliable valet company. You should expect to pay a premium price.
If you do the proper due diligence, you should have no problem finding a good valet company to service your event. Given the risks to your guests and their vehicles, you want to be thorough so as to make sure your guests can enjoy the convenience of a valet handle the parking details.
