Is there any law in Ontario where a venue can force the client to use their exclusive suppliers for rentals?

Question

I am planning a wedding and I have noticed alot of my "prime" venues state I have to use their suppliers. I have other suppliers for things like chairs and linen that I'd rather use as they are more cost efficient do I have to use the venue's recommendations?

Answer 1

IF

you sign an agreement with a "venue" then you are bound by the conditions included therein. If the provider/venue identifies certain other supply and/or supplier conditions in the agreement, and you  sign your acceptance of the agreement without excluding the parts with which you disagree or do not want, then these conditions are what you must follow.

It is called contract law. A signed agreement is a contract.

Once you sign a contract  you must abide by the conditions of that contract.

Other than that, no, there is nothing in law that compels you to use services selected by someone else for such a venue.

Many such event-holders make arrangements with other suppliers and they work together. They may do this for their mutual financial benefit, but it also gives them an easier coordination and possibly better flow of materials and other associated services, which can work to your benefit, and may even reduce your overall costs for similar deliveries.

They are a private enterprise, so the choice of such associates or associations is theirs to make, and it is your choice to accept or decline.

That said, if you really want a specific location for the event, and you dislike the suppliers they choose, you can try for alternate arrangements with them.

This is called negotiation and negotiation IS business.

Note this, please:   Do not ever argue with a receptionist or clerk.

Find out who is in charge/authority for decision-making and speak with that person.  Be general in expressing your wishes. Final details are best negotiated in a personal meeting.

Be positive about it.

Bear in mind that they are in business to make money and they want your money. You have nothing to lose by trying, and you may well get what you want if you ask.

If, however, you find them totally inflexible, move on, but take assurance from knowing it is very likely that person will soon be unemployed or the enterprise will close.

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