Questions to ask when vetting possible wedding vendors
The process of planning a wedding involves the coordination of many different components , including people . It can be stressful and it can be exciting . Chances are the couple-to-be will be handling conversations with vendors they may have never worked with before .
It may be tempting to simply sign on the dotted line when hiring wedding vendors and hope for the best . But the process can prove more fruitful when couples prepare for it by compiling a list of questions designed to ensure they know what they ’ re getting before they enter into a contract .
IS THE DATE AVAILABLE ?
The most important question to ask is whether the vendor is available on the day you have chosen to get married . The house of worship or place where you will be exchanging vows should be set first , and then additional vendors can be interviewed to confirm their availability and the scope of their services .
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN BUSINESS ?
How long a company has been in business , and more importantly how much experience they have with weddings , can be a telling detail . Experience is not always indicative of ability , but vendors with long track records of success may prove easy to work with .
ARE YOU INSURED ?
Check if the vendor is insured . It can be a risky proposition to work with vendors who are not insured .
WILL YOU BE ON SITE TO OVERSEE THINGS ?
From florists to private caterers to specialty performers , it is acceptable to ask vendors if they will be there the day of the wedding to manage things or if it will be a third party or another representative . Confirm all pertinent details , including who will be there on the day of the wedding , in advance .
Courtesy photo Couples can prepare a list of questions designed to ensure they know what they ’ re getting before they enter into a contract with a wedding vendor .
WHAT IS YOUR PAYMENT SCHEDULE AND CANCEL- LATION POLICY ?
Understand how the vendor expects to be paid . Many businesses require a deposit up front to book the date . Some may want payment in full a week or so before the wedding day . Others may enable you to make monthly payments for a set period of time . Ask how the vendor handles cancellations , and whether any deposit or portion of the money already paid will be refunded .
WHEN IS THE LAST POSSIBLE DATE FOR MAKING CHANGES ? Know how long you have to make any changes to your plans , colors , music choices , or other details .
ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL FEES ?
It ’ s important to determine if gratuity , travel , overtime charges , cleaning fees , or any other charges are included in the contract or if it leaves room for additional expenses .
IS MINE YOUR ONLY WEDDING THAT DAY ? HOW DO YOU HANDLE CONFLICTS ?
Figure out if the vendor handles just one wedding per day or if they have staff to cover multiple weddings on a given date .
DO PRICES DIFFER DEPENDING ON TIME OF DAY , MONTH OR YEAR ?
Certain dates are busier than others . Find out if the vendor charges a premium for holidays or particular times of the year .
Couples are urged to exercise due diligence and ensure contracts with vendors specify all details before signing on the dotted line .
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