Introduction: the advance is the point of no return In Bangalore's wedding venue market, the advance — typically 25–50% of the total package value — is the moment a shortlist becomes a commitment. Once it is paid, most venues' cancellation policies make it either non-refundable or recoverable only under very specific conditions. The decision made in the hour before the advance is paid is therefore the most consequential decision in the entire venue-selection process. Most fam