First, don't agree to a contract that is too vague. Lack of specificity leaves room for vendors to make changes or
tack on extra costs. Everything should appear on paper, including:
~ Dates of Service
~ Times (including set-up and clean-up times, if applicable)
~ Locations
~ Prices - Plus Taxes and Gratuities
~ Payment Plan
~ Delivery Schedule
~ Number and Names of Professionals
~ Expected Attire of Professionals
~ Refund and Cancellation Policies
~ Any Overtime Fees
The contract must also specify any vendor-specific details. For example, a videographer's contract should
specify that she'll have back-up equipment on hand in case of malfunctioning; a florist's should name the
specific flowers he'll use.
Also make sure that any details or extras discussed during meetings are noted in the contract. If you
photographer says he'll throw in an extra portrait for your parents, get it in writing. Don't take anything for
granted. Ask questions, and if you feel something has been left out, have the vendor write it in. Both parties
should initial the change.
Don't be pressured into signing on the spot. Vendors should let you take a contract home and fine-tooth- comb
it. Pinpoint any unfamiliar terms and get them clarified to your satisfaction and, if possible, have a third party
give it a glance. A Wedding Liaison or attorney is ideal, but anyone who has recently planned a wedding can
eyeball it. Then be sure to keep in touch with the vendor after you've signed and put down a deposit. Follow up
on contract details as the wedding date nears, and call vendors to confirm services one to two weeks before
the big day.
No Regrets: Protect Yourself with Clear Contracts
By Lisa Marie Rovito
tack on extra costs. Everything should appear on paper, including:
~ Dates of Service
~ Times (including set-up and clean-up times, if applicable)
~ Locations
~ Prices - Plus Taxes and Gratuities
~ Payment Plan
~ Delivery Schedule
~ Number and Names of Professionals
~ Expected Attire of Professionals
~ Refund and Cancellation Policies
~ Any Overtime Fees
The contract must also specify any vendor-specific details. For example, a videographer's contract should
specify that she'll have back-up equipment on hand in case of malfunctioning; a florist's should name the
specific flowers he'll use.
Also make sure that any details or extras discussed during meetings are noted in the contract. If you
photographer says he'll throw in an extra portrait for your parents, get it in writing. Don't take anything for
granted. Ask questions, and if you feel something has been left out, have the vendor write it in. Both parties
should initial the change.
Don't be pressured into signing on the spot. Vendors should let you take a contract home and fine-tooth- comb
it. Pinpoint any unfamiliar terms and get them clarified to your satisfaction and, if possible, have a third party
give it a glance. A Wedding Liaison or attorney is ideal, but anyone who has recently planned a wedding can
eyeball it. Then be sure to keep in touch with the vendor after you've signed and put down a deposit. Follow up
on contract details as the wedding date nears, and call vendors to confirm services one to two weeks before
the big day.
No Regrets: Protect Yourself with Clear Contracts
- Never sign a contract until you understand every word, and are confident that it covers.
- All relevant details. Before you sign, think through all possible (or at least likely) conflicts and crises
- Contracts exist to protect both you and the wedding professional equally. If any vendor refuses to
provide
- Remember, even the best contract can't prevent problems from happening, but they can give you legal
recourse
By Lisa Marie Rovito
Be Contract Savvy
What to Know Before You Sign on the Dotted Line
Contracts can be confusing at best - at worst they're an overwhelming jumble of jargon. But
a service contract with a caterer, reception hall, wedding liaison, florist or whomever is
meant to protect your rights as much as those of the pros.
How can you make sure the i's are dotted and the t's crossed before you sign anything?
Contracts can be confusing at best - at worst they're an overwhelming jumble of jargon. But
a service contract with a caterer, reception hall, wedding liaison, florist or whomever is
meant to protect your rights as much as those of the pros.
How can you make sure the i's are dotted and the t's crossed before you sign anything?
| Copyright © 2009 Carolyn Burke - Wedding Liaison |
