One reader asked, "I work in a small office and plan events for 30 guests.  Without the leverage that a big brand or convention, how can I save money when booking events at a hotel?"

Here are a few items that may be up for negotiation and to help your bottom line, and Divas, please add your own suggestions to this blog. 

Being flexible on your dates can help achieve a lower room rate and help your sales person meet her quota for certain months.  Ask your contact if she has any unsold dates between conferences that she's trying to move.  

While you're not going to be their largest customer, a series of 30 person meetings adds up and should lower your room rates.  Offer to hold all quarterly meetings for one year, or all board meetings,  or the company holiday party in addition to your one meeting.

Ask for a discount on any Internet fees.  This is a soft cost.

Serve guests pitchers of water at the meeting rather than individual bottles.  One pitcher placed every third seat is a good rule of thumb. 

Ask for a flat (or free) storage/shipping receiving fee if you have a lot of boxes arriving.   

With the current economy the buyer has more leverage now than a year ago.   Hopefully it picks up soon, but in your case it does make for a better hotel rate.