The importance of your vendor contracts:
In planning your wedding you will be dealing with multiple vendors and service providers. It is in all the involved parties’ best interests to have some form of contract or agreement outlined. This contract/agreement will give you legal recourse if the vendor does not follow through on the promised plans.
Each vendor should be able to provide you with a detailed contract and should include some form of the following (if applicable):
- Name of the person providing the service
- Your name
- Your wedding date
- The timeframe they are providing (photographer and musician)
- Delivery date (florist and rental supplies)
- Date for final headcount (reception site and caterer)
- Detailed description of the flowers they are providing (white tulips, calla lilies, roses)
- Payment details (clear and accurate)
- Deposit dates and requirements
- Final payment information
- Cancellation fees
- Signature of you and vendors
Here are some tips for financial protection when planning a wedding:
- Deal with vendors with verifiable references and good reputations. Verify complaints through the Better Business Bureau.
- Keep signed detailed contracts from every vendor that you use.
- If you have to make any changes to your orders do it in writing and keep a copy for your records
- Never pay with cash. If possible pay with a credit card or a check.
- Take photos of the items you disapprove of. It will serve as your proof when you contest your payment