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Wedding Planning > Wedding
Vendors
Wedding Vendor Tips
You can plan a successful wedding and not be taken for
a ride by crooked vendors. Here's some expert advice to save you time, money, and
frustration.
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If you hire a wedding coordinator, hire one who works
for a flat fee, not a percentage of the total cost. That way you know the costs are fixed
and you don't have to pay double for an unexpected cost overrun.
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Don't just look at their portfolio or promotional
material. Ask the photographer, caterer, limousine service, wedding coordinator, or other
vendor for the names of their last three customers and call them.
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Avoid vendors who insist on being paid in full up
front. Most vendors want the balance on the wedding day.
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Vendors who don't take credit cards - especially
wedding gown retailers - may be running a fly-by-night operation that could go out of
business. Check them out with references and professional agencies to ensure their
legitimacy before shelling out a lot of money.
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Before you give them any money, always get a written
contract that includes the specifics. It doesn't have to be formal and confusing as long
as it spells out the exact service to be provided, the total cost, and the payment
schedule.
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If you hire a photographer, make sure that
photographer is the one who will actually be taking the pictures. Many large photo
studios subcontract their work.
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If you have suspicions about doing business with
someone, call the Better Business Bureau in your area.
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Make sure the vendor belongs to their professional
organization. Check the membership if you're unsure!
Weddings
by Lisa Akers
Author of "The Wedding Theme Workbook"
and "The Wedding Consultant in a Box"
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