ABC

Weddings are not businesses! They're all about flowers and ribbons and lace! Why the need for all this legal mumbo jumbo? You're in the middle of a fairy tale; enacting out your childhood dreams...you don't want to be bothered with the fine print. You want to examine the various Pantone shades of green and leave the icky little papers to sit in the bottom of your wedding file. Or do you??

Contracts. They're the basis and foundation of any wedding. A good contract will protect not only your vendor, but you as well. We should not treat them as an annoyance. Embrace them. Many people get too excited about signing their favourite photographer or that glorious french pastry chef and don't examine the fine print. What will happen to you and your wedding in the event of a cancellation......or illness......or fire??

Clearly, I've had some experience in the matter and wanted to share some thoughts. I did make the effort to read all my contracts before signing and knew what I was getting into. So when some vendors refused to return deposits due to the change in our situation, I had little recourse - I had agreed to that deal. Which is fine. But that's the point - know what you're signing and know your rights. Vendors use contracts to define their relationship to you, but it works both ways. It also defines your relationship with them. So if vendors become difficult or try to implement new charges or change the terms, always go back to your contract. It is your ally and should help to resolve any disputes. Also, look for vendors with strong and well written contracts. A long contract does not mean the vendor is difficult, it means they're trying to clarify your relationship as much as possible. Ambiguity is not good in a wedding, trust me. A flimsy two line contract protects no one and will only lead to much confusion and heartache.

Bottom line...contracts are your friend. Read them. Learn them. Love them.

P.S.
Thanks to Tank for my free legal advice! I love having a lawyer in the family :)