Let's get something straight: Every time you hire a
photographer, caterer, florist, or hairdresser; book a
chapel, park, or hotel ballroom; or order something
from a dress shop, dressmaker, or formalwear store,
you must get your agreement in writing. Until you put
down a deposit, there is no contract, and you have no
guarantees. Read everything in your contracts and
receipts, and be sure to document every single wedding
arrangement you make.
1. Flexibility
You might not want to think about an April snowstorm's
effect on your lovely garden ceremony, but if you want
to ensure that the catering hall's ballroom will be
available, write that into the contract. Don't be
afraid to alter the stock contract that the vendor or
manager offers. If your request is reasonable -- for
example, you want the supplier to be liable for
potential negligence or willful misconduct -- and the
vendor won't agree, look elsewhere.
2. Refunds
Every contract should include a refund policy that
discusses what refund you will receive if you cancel
and what penalty the vendor will pay if they cancel.
For bands and DJs, you might want to include a
"Macarena Clause": If they play something on your
written "Do Not Play" list, they must deduct a small
amount from the bill.
3. Details Forthcoming
What should you do if you've made some decisions but
haven't finalized details? (For example, you know you
want lots of roses, but you don't know the exact cost
of the centerpieces). You can make a contract when you
book the service and include a general amount or
maximum cost for services, but add a sentence that
says details will be confirmed in writing by a certain
date.
4. What Goes Into It
On every contract, write
Day of the week
Date of the wedding
Time the vendor should arrive
Day and date an item should be delivered
Note: When dealing with vendors that are providing a
service on the wedding day itself, make sure the
contract includes the name and number of the person
the vendor should call if anything goes wrong or gets
delayed.
5. Receipts
When you order something, such as a dress, a tuxedo,
invitations, or favors, the contract can be as brief
as a store receipt. That said, it should still
include:
Wedding date
Style (a number, a detailed description, or the full
invitation text, for example)
Date item will be picked up
Price and payment schedule
Outline of what the price includes (such as
alterations, accessories, delivery, and envelopes)
Check out our comprehensive contract points tailored
to location, musicians, caterer, florist, cake
designer, photographer, and videographer.
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