The Retort

Renters are encouraged to use caterers and vendors from The Diatribe/The Retort's approved list of local, women-, veteran-, LGBTQIA+-, and minority-owned businesses. All caterers and vendors must provide proof of insurance, follow venue rules for setup, service, and cleanup, and comply with applicable laws, including those governing alcohol service. Using preferred caterers supports community economic development and the venue's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

All cancellations must be submitted in writing.

• Cancellations 2 weeks or longer before the event date will receive a full refund.
• Cancellations within 8–14 days of the event will receive a 50% refund.
• Cancellations less than 7 days of the event will receive a 25% refund.

Setup Responsibilities:

• Renters are responsible for all event setup, including arranging tables, chairs, decorations, and equipment unless venue staff assistance has been pre-arranged.
• Any setup that requires modifications to the venue (e.g., hanging decorations, moving heavy furniture, or altering layouts) must be approved in advance by The Diatribe/The Retort.
• All vendors and rental equipment deliveries must coordinate arrival times with venue staff to ensure smooth access and compliance with venue policies.

Teardown & Cleanup:

• Renters and their vendors are responsible for returning the venue to its original condition, including removing decorations, food and beverage items, trash, and personal belongings.
• All venue furniture, fixtures, and equipment must be returned to their proper locations.
• Any damage or missing items discovered after teardown will be the financial responsibility of the renter.

Time Management:

• All setup and teardown must occur within the rental period specified in the booking agreement. Overtime fees may apply if the venue is occupied beyond the scheduled rental time.

Safety & Compliance:

• Renters must ensure that all setup and teardown activities are performed safely and do not violate fire codes, accessibility regulations, or venue rules.

This policy ensures that the venue remains safe, organized, and ready for all users while protecting its property and minimizing disruption.

All businesses/organizations serving alcohol at the event are required to provide a certificate of liability insurance specific to the event. The policy must include liquor liability coverage with limits of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate for general liability, as well as $1,000,000 in alcohol liability coverage.

The renter is fully responsible for any damage to the venue, including chairs, tables, furnishings, equipment, or other property, occurring during the rental period. The renter agrees to notify The Diatribe/The Retort of any damage and to cover the cost of repair or replacement. Liability is not limited by insurance and may include withholding of any security deposit to cover damages.

All individuals, businesses, and organizations renting the venue assume sole responsibility for the safety, supervision, and conduct of their guests. The Diatribe/The Retort shall bear no liability for any incidents, damages, or claims arising from guest actions or safety during the rental period.

By submitting this booking request, the undersigned confirms understanding and acceptance of the following terms of the event venue rental.

Alcohol Service & Liability Insurance

• I acknowledge that if alcohol is served at the event, I must provide a certificate of liability insurance specific to this event at least 7 days prior to the event date.
• I understand the insurance must include general liability coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence / $2,000,000 aggregate and alcohol/liquor liability coverage of $1,000,000.

Guest Safety & Conduct

• I accept sole responsibility for the supervision, safety, and conduct of all event attendees.
• I understand that The Diatribe/The Retort shall not be held liable for any incidents, damages, or claims arising from the actions or safety of guests during the rental period.
• I agree to have completed the clean-up and fully exited the property no later than midnight of the day of the rental.

Compliance with Laws & Guidelines

• I agree to comply with all applicable Michigan laws regarding alcohol service, including prohibitions on service to minors, service to intoxicated persons, and sales outside authorized hours.
• I will follow all relevant self-provided or caterer-provided alcohol guidelines, including obtaining required licenses and/or using licensed, insured bartenders when necessary.