With all the stress of wedding planning, it can be difficult to sort the good vendors from the not-so-good! Researching wedding vendors and asking important questions can go a long way to help you avoid problems on your big day.
Make sure you are dealing with reputable businesses that won’t take your money and run. Research complaints filed against businesses with the
Ohio Attorney General’s Office and the
Better Business Bureau. Ask friends and family for recommendations, and read online reviews of vendors you are considering.
Ask a variety of questions when meeting with potential vendors. For example, some reception halls may require a nonrefundable deposit to hold the hall for your wedding date. Some may charge extra fees for cutting the cake or opening champagne. Make sure all verbal statements and promises are put in writing. Also, find out about any specific rules or restrictions, cancellation policies, and refund policies for deposits and payments. Be skeptical of “one-day” deals and discounts, which may involve high fees or hidden costs.
While researching possible vendors, you may be asked to provide your name, phone number, mailing address, e-mail address, and other details. Supplying this information may seem harmless, but be sure to ask how your information will be used. A vendor might sell your information to other businesses that may call or send you offers.
When ordering wedding or bridesmaid dresses, make sure you get all the details in writing, including the model number, size, manufacturer, color, and all other details pertinent to the order. Ask for the date when the order will be sent to the manufacturer and follow up with the store to ensure that your order is on schedule.
If possible, pay with a credit card. Credit card companies allow you to dispute charges if a business fails to deliver the goods or services you purchased. Debit cards, cash, and checks do not carry the same protections. The back of your monthly credit card bill should have information on how to dispute credit card charges.
While no one can predict everything that may happen on your wedding day, researching vendors, paying small deposits, and paying with a credit card can help protect you and your money.
Consumers should report potential scams and deceptive business practices to the Ohio Attorney General's Office by visiting
www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov or calling 800-282-0515.