1. Google the name of the vendor personally, and the business name to check reviews online. Do not assume that the reviews on their website are the only ones out there.
2. ASK if the vendor you spoke with will be at your wedding. This is critical!
3. Be sure to get a signed contract that includes the vendor’s signature (not just yours) and be sure all the specific details of your event are on the contract.
4. Get a physical address as well as a phone number for the vendor or company you are using. If there is trouble with their phone you will want somewhere to go to reach them directly. If the vendor does not answer calls you will need a way to find them.
5. If possible, meet your vendor personally, ask many questions and see how he or she responds. You can even do this Via Skype or Facetime. Be sure that the vendor you are speaking with will be at your event on your big day, not just the person that does the booking.
6. Ask what happens if there is an emergency and they cannot be there?
7. Ask about the number of years he or she has been a professional wedding vendor. Just working at private parties or events is not the same as a wedding! How many actual weddings has he (she) been paid to work? Can you look up reviews from other wedding clients?
8. Ask about how he or she will dress for your event? How many vehicles they will bring? How much parking they need? How much power do they need?
9. Ask what time they will be there to set up for your event.
10. Ask to see the forms he or she uses for planning the event. Are the forms professional? Are they comprehensive? Are they easy to understand?
Weddings are complex. Many things are happening that can be magical or tragic depending on the experience of your vendors. Follow these guidelines to be sure that you get vendors that will take diligent care of you and your guests. Isn’t a little more money for amazing wedding vendors worth your peace of mind?
Cheers and blessings to you and your family!
Michael Peifer- President
Wedding Music Charleston
Event Music Charleston
Chairman- Charleston DJ Alliance
www.weddingmusiccharleston.com
www.eventmusiccharleston.com
www.charlestondj.org
843-442-2525
10_ways_to_avoid_trouble_when_hiring_wedding_vendors.pdf