Questions to ask wedding vendors

Before you sign with anyone

Whatever the vendor, ask for these in writing. A message or email that sets them out clearly is far better than a verbal promise.

• A written quote on the vendor’s letterhead, email or invoice format, dated, with the event name, date, venue and hours.
• An itemised list of what is included and what costs extra, so two quotes can be compared line by line.
• Whether taxes are included in each amount, and whether the vendor will issue a proper invoice.
• The payment schedule: advance, part payments and balance, with the date each one is due and how it is paid.
• What happens if you postpone, reduce the guest count or cancel, and what happens if the vendor cannot deliver.
• The name and phone number of the person who will actually be in charge on the day.
• A receipt for every payment, including cash, with the date and what it was for.

If something goes wrong

Keep every contract, receipt and message in one folder. Raise problems with the vendor in writing first, and give them a reasonable chance to fix it.

These lists are planning prompts, not legal advice. For a contract dispute, consult a qualified lawyer or the consumer authorities.