Gala Events Inc.

I only gave one star because you can’t not give any.
First off let me start by saying that I understand contracts and agreements, my work is also heavily reliant on such things, however, I also have a great understanding of customer service and just plain good morals. Sometimes, you just have to do the right thing.
I booked a date with Gala events back in February/​March of 2014 for January of 2016. I gave them a deposit of $ 500 and I did sign the non-​refundable agreement.
They were from the start very friendly and quick to respond to any emails and questions we had.
A couple of months later, I had some unforeseen financial issues which prevented me from moving forward with the event we were planning. I called Veronica and emailed her in regards to sitting down with her and discussing this.
She had one of her receptionists/​office personal email me back simply stating that they needed my cancellation in writing. I asked for a phone call from Veronica and did as they asked, I sent my cancellation in writing.
She did not call me or return my emails. After attempting again to get a hold of her, her husband (I’m assuming) Patrick, finally called me back. He explained there policy and I explained my situation. He said he understood and would try to work with me. If the date I cancelled was re-​booked I would receive my deposit back. I didn’t understand why refunding me would be dependent on that but I accepted in good faith.
I emailed Gala Events a few times towards the end of the year and got no response. I did not appreciate that now, that I was no longer a potential customer, they had no interest in replying to me.
I felt and still feel very strongly about my non refunded deposit.
After the new year I received an email from Patrick telling me that the date I had canceled had not been re-​booked and I would not be getting my deposit back.
I emailed him explaining that I did not think this was fair. I gave them $ 500 to secure a date for Jan of 2016, I cancelled well over 18 months in advance. I did not cause them loss of income nor did they provide any service to me. I was robbed for my deposit simply because they felt there no-​refund policy is valid, and it just might be, legally speaking. However, as far as being reputable and having sound morals… well you be the judge.
$ 500 for a sit down and some paper signing. How am I to know the date had really not been re-​booked and regardless of that, why would I only receive my money back in that scenario? If they could agree to work with me based on a date being re-​booked, they could of easily refunded me my money. They just didn’t want to.

I have used Gala a couple different times for rental. They are wonderful to work with. The owner has exquisite taste and is a joy. Drop off and pick up is on time. They have reasonable rental rates. Will use many more times.

Had a party at my home for around 100 people. Veronica at Gala Events is great!
She helped me pick out everything I needed. She has an amazing selection of items to choose from. They delivered and picked up everything when promised. We are new to the area and I was very happy to find a rental place that had such a great selection and was so easy to work with. Will use them again for our next event for sure!