Host: How can I be aware of tax and service charges?

Christiana Taylor: Tax and service charges can be a big deal. In DC metro area they are very high. So you want to make sure that when you are given an estimate for the catering facility that you are using, that they include in that estimate the tax and service charge. They are two separate charges. That's when you can also ask a lot of questions about fees, because when they give you a total estimate which they call a Banquet Demand Order, they will provide you with wine items, food, beverage tax gratuity which is the service charge and any room rental or service fees. So it is something to really be aware of you can pay a large amount anywhere from 30 to 50% for tax and gratuity. 1