5 things to ask any wedding vendor before your sign a contract with them

When you’re setting up the items on your ultimate wedding planning to-do list, one of the first things you’ll be eager to cross off will be finding and booking all of your vendors for the day-of. But before your sign your name on the dotted line and pick out the lucky handful of people who will help make your dream-like wedding burst into reality, here’s five things you should ask them before giving them the green light.

1. When Do They Plan to Come and Go?
Find out exactly when they plan to arrive to set up and make sure there’s a 30-minute buffer on that in case they roll up late. If they have to breakdown after the wedding, make sure that they are planning to come during the hours you have the venue booked for so you’re not charged a penny extra.

2. Are They Insured?
Some venues require vendors to have their own insurance, so check with your wedding location before you select your vendors, or else you may find yourself shelling out some extra cash for wedding insurance months before your big day.

3. Can They Show You Proof?
Ask for a handful of testimonials or references. If you’ve already selected your venue, ask if they’ve done any weddings there and speak with specific couples to see what went wrong and what went right.

4. Are They Willing to Make Changes?
When you’re looking over the contract, feel free to mark it up with questions or changes you’d like to make. See how open they are to negotiating or changing terms that don’t work out for you.

5. Anything Extra?
Be sure you’re clear on exactly what’s included. Will you have to pay parking costs or provide them with a meal at the wedding? Know it all before they show up hungry or invoicing you for hundreds of dollars more.