Contracts are a MUST!

By Lei Lydle Founder and Editor Last Updated: 9/1/2003

It is absolutely necessary that you have written and signed contracts with each and every wedding vendor that you hire for your wedding. This includes the bridal shops and the stationers. Don't just settle for a cash register receipt. Trust me, although most wedding vendors have the best of intentions, they are people who can make mistakes that can end up screwing up your wedding...you are better off with a written contract.

Beware if a vendor asks for a deposit to "hold a date" even without a contract. Once you write that check it is as good as gone. NEVER hand over any money without a written contract - or at the very least, a receipt.

The good news is that most wedding vendors know this and already have standard contracts prepared. Just be sure that you read over every detail before you sign it. Make sure that the contract includes the following items:

1. Day, date and time contract is signed
2. Day, date, time and location of wedding ceremony and reception
3. Delivery dates, times and locations
4. Complete list of services to be provided, including the number of hours, breaks, etc.
5. The appropriate attire for the vendor
6. The name of the contact person or person in charge of your wedding
7. The bride's name and contact number
8. The groom's name and contact number
9. The mother of the bride's name and contact number
10. The name of the wedding consultant and contact information if applicable
11. Alternative service or merchandise in case of a problem
12. Amount of deposit paid and payment schedule
13. Cancellation and refund policy
14. Last date to make changes to services or provide final guest count

Always read the entire contract including the fine print. If you have any questions or changes to the contract you need to make and initial them before signing the contract.

You should also make sure that you both date and sign the contract. If the vendor doesn't sign the contract, you can't hold them liable if there is ever a problem.

You should always put your deposits on a credit card whenever possible. There are special federal consumer protection laws that protect all payments made with a credit card. If you can prove that the service that you contracted for were not provided, you can usually get your credit card credited for the amount of the deposit.

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