Before you spend any money on a reception venue, flowers, catering, a DJ and all the other components that make up a wedding day, you want to make sure that you’re working with legitimate vendors. The last thing you want is your big day – and your budget – in the hands of an unreliable person or shady company.
Knowing what to watch for can help protect you from losing money, dealing with poor service or facing legal issues. As you choose vendors, keep an eye out for these common red flags.
1. Poor communication before the contract is signed
If vendors aren’t great communicators before you sign a contract, chances are that won’t change after you’ve signed on the dotted line and given them money. A lack of timely communication – generally more than 48 hours without a response – is a strong signal to move on.
2. Little to no online presence – or consistently negative reviews
Most wedding vendors have some sort of online presence these days, whether it’s a website or a business social media page If you can’t find reviews, photos or basic information, ask why.
Outdated websites or consistently negative reviews are also red flags. While one bad review isn’t unusual, a pattern of complaints should give you pause.
3. Their prices seem too good to be true
If prices are much lower than competitors’ it may be a tempting offer, but it should be a red flag. Maybe they have hidden fees, use subpar products, lack experience or have questionable staff. Anything significantly outside of the industry standard in your area should be questioned.
4. They can’t answer questions about the industry
If they are unsure about what permits need to be obtained or filed, for example, this is a sign of inexperience. You want someone who can tell you what others have done and walk you through exactly what you – and the vendor – will need to do to make sure everything goes smoothly and is up to industry standards and codes.
5. They can’t – or refuse – to provide required documents
Things like insurance or a liquor license are required for certain vendors, such as a bartender or caterer. If they don’t want to show you proof of these documents, don’t risk it.
6. They ignore your preferences or concerns
Your wedding vendors should listen to your vision and work collaboratively. If they aren’t interested in hearing your preferences and working with you, ask yourself if this is really someone you want to be in charge of a significant part of your wedding day.
7. Negative feedback from other vendors or past clients
Recommendations from trusted vendors – like your venue or coordinator – can be valuable. If multiple professionals or former clients warn you against working with someone, take those concerns seriously.
8. They only accept cash payments
A discount for paying in cash is one thing, but if the ONLY way a vendor lets you pay is in cash (e.g., they don’t want the paper trail) this should be a huge red flag to you. The paper trail protects both parties.
9. Their contract is hard to understand.
A wedding contract should clearly outline services, dates, times, payment terms and cancelation policies. If it’s overly vague, packed with hidden fees or hard to understand, ask for clarification or have an attorney review it before signing.
10. Something just doesn’t feel right
Finally, trust your gut. If you’re questioning whether this person is going to be reliable or trustworthy …. don’t settle!
Planning and paying for a wedding is great preview for all the different legal and financial matters you could encounter after you’re married. Learn more about how to protect you and your family both for today and for the future.