For most couples, the wedding day will be one of the most expensive days of your life! You MUST protect your money...your investment...when hiring vendors. Of course using a wedding planner and their resources will always make the vendor search easier as they have done the hard research, but should you chose to go it alone, below are a few tips to make sure you don't fall for illegitimate businesses:
- Don't pay hefty deposits/retainers to secure services from vendors...basically all up front. Legitimate businesses will seek a 10-50% up front to secure their services and usually the remaining balance will be broken into payments with the final due a week or two before the wedding.
- Get references before hiring. Ask family and friends that have worked with the vendor about their experiences. Also...read reviews, not just testimonials.
- Read the FINE PRINT! I'm not a fan of fine print and don't have it as apart of my planning contract. But some vendors do and you must review with a critical eye. If it doesn't make sense...ask questions before signing on the dotted line.
- Know and UNDERSTAND the refund, cancellation and postponement policies before signing.
- If a vendor asks you for a deposit/retainer without you signing a contract...AVOID THAT BUSINESS! Professionals will always have you sign a contract before exchanging money.
- Pay by credit card. This is the easiest way to dispute a transaction if needed.
Until next time...WEDologize!
(photo credit - weddingprocourses.com)
