Non-refundable deposit

I put down a $3,000 deposit (50%) to a catering company for our wedding, here in the San Francisco Bay Area (CA). After reviewing our finances - we found we didn't have enough money for the wedding after all. Can the catering company keep our deposit even though they have provided no services what-so-ever? I did sign a contract for the non-refundable deposit, however we gave them 7 months prior notice of cancellation. I am willing to work with them, - possibly recieved a % back so we both aren't out-of-pocket completely, but they are stating original contract amount $6,000 is all they can accomodate. I would even negotiate appetizers and no-host catering for the amount we deposited - just to not have to throw away the money. But they are being pretty "hard-nosed" about it. Do we have a leg to stand on?

[I did sign a contract for the non-refundable deposit,]


That makes it difficult. You could try to go to small claims and argue it is too large and is unfair but your odds may not be great. It is possible--or they may compromise with you.

I'm in the same situation as you are. I put down $6000 and it's more than a year away. The wedding is also located in SF. Please let me know if you find out anything about getting the money back.