Secure the Gig, Secure the Bag – Why You Need Deposits and Written Terms for 2026 Bookings

It’s the time of year when smart traders start thinking ahead. You’ve made it through festival season, winter jobs are picking up, and now the emails start trickling in:
“Are you free next summer?” or “Can we pencil you in for a wedding or private party?”

It’s exciting, but it’s also risky if you’re saying yes without the right paperwork or payment terms in place.

We’ve seen too many traders “hold dates” for events that never materialise, or worse, get cancelled months later with no deposit paid and no compensation. If you’re planning to grow or maintain a steady income in 2026, now’s the time to lock things down properly.

Stop holding dates for free

Pencilling someone in might feel polite, but it’s not a business strategy. When you reserve a date, that’s a potential lost job if they cancel or go silent. If you’re not taking a non-refundable deposit and getting written confirmation, you’re putting your time and income at risk.

Instead, have a simple policy in place:

• No date is confirmed until a deposit is paid
• Terms must be signed or agreed in writing (even by email)
• Deposits are non-refundable unless you cancel

That way, everyone knows where they stand – and you’re not chasing people or turning away better bookings.

The importance of clear terms

Whether you’re booking weddings, corporate events, or markets, you should have clear, plain-English terms that cover:

• Deposit amounts and deadlines
• What happens if the client cancels or reschedules
• Your payment schedule (e.g. balance due two weeks before the event)
• Extra costs (e.g. travel, equipment, late finishes)
• What happens in bad weather or emergencies

It doesn’t have to be complicated – just clear, fair, and written down.

Protect your winter cash flow

Locking in 2026 bookings with proper deposits can help you smooth out the quieter months and avoid the January panic. Instead of chasing money, you’ve already got deposits in the bank and a clear plan for what’s coming next year.

Plus, it makes your business look more professional and organised, which increases the chance of clients booking you over a less-prepared trader.

Want help reviewing your deposit terms?

We’re offering NCASS members a free 30-minute legal review of your booking forms, deposit terms, and contracts. Whether you’ve already got 2026 bookings rolling in or just want to get prepared, we’ll help you tighten things up and protect your time.

Other support available:

• Pay-as-you-go legal advice from £495
• Quick reviews from £20
• Debt recovery from £50 (just in case someone doesn’t pay up)

Get in touch now to secure your business — and your income — for the year ahead.

📨 [email protected]

☎ 0118 321 4188