Wedding Planning 101 - Part 3 Finding Your Vendors, Cont. Questions To Ask Before You Sign A Contract

If you have decided to plan your wedding without the aid of a Wedding Planner then you need to arm yourself with some key questions that will help you unlock the mystery of finding the best vendors for your event.  Asking these 10 questions will enable you  to be able to compare vendors on an even playing field.  **

1. What will it cost and is that amount all inclusive?  Keep in mind that the old adage, you get what you pay for, is relative.  But don't rule a vendor out on price alone.  Ask the other 9 questions first and then base your decision on the answers and your gut feeling.  Many talented, innovative vendors start small and charge less while they are building up their portfolio.
2. Do you require a deposit?  If so, how much is the deposit? When will the balance be due?  Is any part of the deposit refundable?  If there is a refund, when will I get that back?  
3. Do you provide a contract? Don't panic if this answer is no. There are still ways to protect yourself legally.  Ask   some additional questions like, will you draw up a contract with the specifics we discussed?  Of course, you always have the option to supply your own contract.  You can obtain a form for a legally binding contract on-line or from an office supply store.  (Read any contract carefully before you sign on the dotted line  and watch the small print!)  
4. Are you the actual vendor I will be dealing with or do you use subcontractors?  If the vendor subcontracts work out then before you sign a contract request to meet the actual vendor you will work with (and don't forget to ask these 10 questions of them also).  
5. Do you carry insurance and are you licensed with the state?  May I see those documents?  Be wary if they can not produce those documents.   
6. How long have you been in business?  Ask for a list of references to verify the vendor's work.  Again, don't rule out new vendors - just because they are new it doesn't mean they haven't produced quality work. (Follow up by calling their references.)
7. Do you have a backup plan?  In case of emergency (illness, fire, going out of business, etc.) do you have a backup plan to guarantee that I will be provided with this service for my event on the date that I have planned for?
8. Now that you know my event needs, what discounts can you offer me?  Beware of vendors who offer you a discount right off the bat without knowing your individual needs.  
9. Can you recommend other vendors for my wedding? A seasoned, reputable vendor should have a list of vendors that they regularly work with who can vouch for their quality of service.  Even a novice vendor should have a list of vendors that they have worked with.  (Call them!)  
10. In a sea of wedding vendors, what makes your business unique?  This is perhaps the most subjective question but listen carefully to the answer.  It may speak volumes. 

**Please keep in mind that there may also be industry specific questions for each type of vendor that you may need to ask as well, but today's post will deal with just the basic questions that relate to all vendors.**