BBB Consumer Tips: Wedding Planning Preparations
By: Meaghan Collier
Updated: January 10, 2013
Every year, the BBB gets complaints on companies in the wedding service industry. This once in a lifetime occasion should not be left to chance since there is little you can do to fix a complaint after the fact. So before you sign a contract or make a deposit, take this advice from Janna Kiehl.
Bridal expos can be informing, and going prepared will be your best option.
Before you go
- Create a budget that you can work with and plan to stick to it. Research prices online so that you have a reasonable idea what things will cost.
- Research exhibitors. Log on to the website for the expo and research vendors that you plan to visit. Take a notebook for notes and ideas.
- Log on to BBB.ORG. Go to bbb.org to see a companys rating and any history of complaints. Ask each potential vendor for a list of references so that you can speak to brides who have successfully used the company.
Once There
- Ask questions. Ask a potential vendor if they are available for your wedding date and ask about pricing so that you stay within your budget.
- Get all promises in writing. As with any business transaction, get all agreements in writing or at a minimum write down the person you spoke with and what was said. Avoid pressure to put down a large deposit if you are not comfortable with the company and the terms.
- Take a Trusted Friend. Attending the show with someone you can trust but that is not directly connected to the financial or emotional end of the wedding can provide a helpful perspective.
After the Show
- Log on to BBB.ORG. Look up the company's BBB Review to see their rating and history of complaints.
- Follow up with the vendors even if they took your name and number. For an event this important its a good idea to verify any promises made.
Bridal expos can be informing, and going prepared will be your best option.
Before you go
- Create a budget that you can work with and plan to stick to it. Research prices online so that you have a reasonable idea what things will cost.
- Research exhibitors. Log on to the website for the expo and research vendors that you plan to visit. Take a notebook for notes and ideas.
- Log on to BBB.ORG. Go to bbb.org to see a companys rating and any history of complaints. Ask each potential vendor for a list of references so that you can speak to brides who have successfully used the company.
Once There
- Ask questions. Ask a potential vendor if they are available for your wedding date and ask about pricing so that you stay within your budget.
- Get all promises in writing. As with any business transaction, get all agreements in writing or at a minimum write down the person you spoke with and what was said. Avoid pressure to put down a large deposit if you are not comfortable with the company and the terms.
- Take a Trusted Friend. Attending the show with someone you can trust but that is not directly connected to the financial or emotional end of the wedding can provide a helpful perspective.
After the Show
- Log on to BBB.ORG. Look up the company's BBB Review to see their rating and history of complaints.
- Follow up with the vendors even if they took your name and number. For an event this important its a good idea to verify any promises made.
