As I said, we are nearly final on the agreement and the hotel will need to set up a link (for us) and will provide a reference for call in. There is no need to book as a group other than to save time and max out someone's credit card. I anticipate they will have things settled as early as tomorrow but as snags happen, I would say no later than Monday.

I am working this with the head person in charge of both Corporate and Social group events. Unlike some places when dealing with groups of this size, there appears to be no need for a contract or extended cancellation period (i.e. 30 days)

I don't know that you need to reserve right now but your decision; just keep in mind they may get upset if they see a group this large reserving rooms on their own and then turning around and canceling and reserving under our group....don't know, but I don't know that we want to take the chance.