Back to Paying for It

Unfortunately, with all of the different variables that go into planning a wedding, there is a good chance that something will go wrong when the big day comes. We all hope that if anything does go wrong, it will be something insignificant that you can ignore or just laugh off. But there is always a possibility that something more serious could go awry. What if the limo driver never arrives to take the bride to church? What if the lead singer you requested for your reception band had another "gig" and a substitute came instead? What if the flowers in the bride’s bouquet were the wrong color? What recourse do you have?

While the problem might not get fixed to your satisfaction (after all, what can you do about incorrect flowers with 10 minutes to go until the ceremony starts?) one thing is for sure, if you have a written contract the ball is in your court.

As with any business relationship, it is important to get the DETAILS in writing. Make sure everything you want or expect is spelled out in a signed contract. Do not assume anything. For example, if you want certain songs played at your reception, find out if the DJ has them and get him to sign off on your list. If he doesn't own the songs you want, ask if you can supply the music to him. Have him sign an agreement to this as well. Likewise, if you don’t want the hokey-pokey and the bird dance played at your reception, make sure it is in the contract. While this may seem like something you could accomplish more easily in a phone conversation, you'll be sorry if it doesn't work out the way you planned and no one remembers what you had really asked for.

Here are some other tips for protecting yourself in the business relationships with your wedding professionals:

• Select wedding professionals based on past experience of referral from relatives and friends.

• Call or go on-line to the Better Business Bureau and check into potential wedding professionals.

• Try to avoid doing business with vendors who don’t accept credit cards or checks unless you are confident in their legitimacy. "Cash only" is a good sign that businesses may be operating illegally.

• Don't EVER pay cash in advance. If the deal falls through, you'll never see your money again. Credit card transactions can be disputed and removed from your account.

• Call your vendors to reconfirm the specifics as the wedding draws near. Try to get them to tell YOU what they are supposed to do. Don’t allow them to simply say "uh-huh" to your questions as they work on something else.

• Retain copies of all contracts and receipts and always know what the vendor's cancellation / refund policies are.