Hiring Vendors FAQ
General guidance on finding, vetting, and working with wedding vendors
01 How do I find good wedding vendors?
How do I find good wedding vendors?
Finding quality wedding vendors requires research from multiple sources:
Referral Sources: **
Evaluation Criteria: **
Research Process: **
1. Compile initial list from multiple sources
2. Review portfolios/websites
3. Read reviews (look for patterns, not one-offs)
4. Send inquiry to 3-5 vendors per category
5. Note response time and professionalism
6. Schedule consultations with top picks
7. Check references before booking
Red Flags to Watch: **
Questions to Ask: **
Trust your instincts about personality fit - you'll work closely with these people on an important day.
02 How do I evaluate wedding vendor reviews?
How do I evaluate wedding vendor reviews?
Reviews are valuable but require thoughtful evaluation:
Where to Find Reviews: **
What to Look For: **
Red Flags in Reviews: **
Green Flags: **
Understanding Negative Reviews: **
Beyond Online Reviews: **
A mix of sources gives the most accurate picture of vendor quality and reliability.
03 What should every wedding vendor contract include?
What should every wedding vendor contract include?
A solid vendor contract protects both parties. Ensure these elements are included:
Basic Information: **
Service Details: **
Payment Terms: **
Cancellation/Rescheduling: **
Backup Plans: **
Rights & Ownership: **
Liability & Insurance: **
Logistics: **
Before Signing: **
04 How should I communicate with wedding vendors?
How should I communicate with wedding vendors?
Effective vendor communication ensures smooth planning and execution:
Initial Inquiry Best Practices: **
Ongoing Communication: **
What to Communicate: **
Setting Expectations: **
Before the Wedding: **
Day-Of Communication: **
Post-Wedding: **
05 How do wedding vendor deposits work?
How do wedding vendor deposits work?
Understanding deposits helps you plan payments and protect your investment:
Standard Deposit Amounts: **
Purpose of Deposits: **
Deposit vs. Retainer: **
Payment Methods: **
Refund Policies: **
Protecting Your Deposit: **
Payment Timeline Wisdom: **
Always ask about deposit terms before booking, not after.
06 What insurance do wedding vendors need, and do I need wedding insurance?
What insurance do wedding vendors need, and do I need wedding insurance?
Understanding insurance protects everyone involved:
Vendor Insurance Requirements:
General Liability Insurance: **
Professional Liability: **
Equipment Insurance: **
Workers' Compensation: **
Wedding Insurance (For Couples):
Liability Insurance: **
Cancellation Insurance: **
What Wedding Insurance Covers: **
Where to Get Wedding Insurance: **
Review policies carefully - coverage varies significantly.
07 Should I use vendors from my venue's preferred list?
Should I use vendors from my venue's preferred list?
Preferred vendor lists have pros and cons to consider:
Advantages of Preferred Vendors: **
Potential Drawbacks: **
Questions to Ask Venue: **
When to Go Off-List: **
If Using Outside Vendors: **
Smart Approach: **
Preferred lists are starting points, not requirements (unless venue says otherwise).
08 What is the etiquette for tipping wedding vendors?
What is the etiquette for tipping wedding vendors?
Tipping practices vary by vendor type and situation:
Tip Expected: **
Tip Encouraged: **
Tip Optional/Situational: **
When Tipping Isn't Expected: **
Check Your Contracts: **
How to Tip: **
Budget: **
Plan 5-10% of wedding budget for tips and gratuities.
09 What happens if a vendor cancels on me?
What happens if a vendor cancels on me?
Vendor cancellations are rare but you should know your options:
If Vendor Cancels: **
Common Contract Provisions: **
Your Rights: **
Finding a Replacement: **
When Vendor Goes Out of Business: **
Preventing Issues: **
What Wedding Insurance Covers: **
10 How do I handle a dispute with a wedding vendor?
How do I handle a dispute with a wedding vendor?
Address vendor issues professionally while protecting your interests:
Before the Wedding:
Step 1: Communicate Clearly**
Step 2: Seek Resolution**
Step 3: Escalate if Needed**
After the Wedding (Quality Issues): **
If No Resolution: **
What NOT to Do: **
Prevention Strategies: **
Knowing When to Let Go: **
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