Every year, your BBB receives thousands of complaints against wedding-related services like wedding planners, bridal shops, vehicle rentals, caterers, DJs, limousine services, wedding photographers, florists and jewelers. When planning your wedding, your BBB offers these tips to help you find trustworthy businesses to work with and have a fantastic wedding day:
• Get recommendations from family and friends. If they’re pleased with wedding vendors most likely you’ll be too.
• Consider the vendor’s reputation, years of services and services provided.
• Ask wedding vendors to provide samples of work.
• Look for ways to save, such as having your wedding off season (winter ceremonies tend to be cheaper) and asking for group discounts when making travel arrangements for out-of-town guests.
• Confirm vendors and services at least two weeks prior to the event to prevent surprises.
• Get everything in writing. Review all terms and conditions on contracts.
• Research all online vendors. Look for BBB seal and other widely-recognized trustmarks on Web sites.
• Consult a wedding planner. They can do a lot of the heavy lifting and check contracts to make sure your interests are protected.
• Keep your receipts and documentation.
• Consider getting wedding insurance to cover unexpected emergencies or cancellations. Many policies start at $200 and can save you in the long run.
• Pay as little up front as possible and don’t pay cash. Pay by credit card because it offers the added protection. Never wire money.
If you have any questions regarding wedding vendors, you can always get help from your BBB, such as a list of BBB Accredited Businesses/Charities and business reviews on ones you’re considering. Also, be sure to click the trust button on business reviews of companies you trust. For more information, visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.
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