Welcome to From the Source
We are sharing event planning insights, practical strategies, and innovative solutions from our industry experts at Simply Sourced. From venue sourcing to contract confidence, we share perspectives that save planners time, reduce risk, and elevate every event experience. You’ll also find broader industry updates and trends, giving you a well-rounded view of what’s shaping the future of meetings and events.
The Art & Science of Contract Negotiation
At Simply Sourced, we love contracts and all that comes with them. We're happy to share some of our favorite negotiation strategies that planners can use with any vendor.
The Argument for Working with a Meeting Broker
You may think working with a broker adds cost. The truth is, whether or not a third-party is involved, hotels budget for commissions as part of their group sales expenses. If no intermediary is used, the hotel typically keeps that margin. Overall, market demand drives pricing, not commission. Rates fluctuate based on city compression, demand, and seasonality.