During your wedding planning journey you will get caught up in all the pretty details and the little extras – who can blame you, it’s a pretty special time of your life! However, it is so important to be aware of the legalities that come with booking your suppliers. Whilst we are not legally trained, and we would always advise you seek independent professional legal advice for anything you are unsure about, there are some key details in your wedding contract that we can help you with. Your contracts are there to not only protect you but also your wedding suppliers.
Image: Peter Bell Photography
Why are contacts important?
All suppliers will have contracts that are in place to protect both you as the wedding couple and also themselves as the wedding supplier. Weddings are such an emotional business it’s important to have everything on paper. Once you decide to book each supplier they will issue a legally binding contract detailing everything you will receive. Once you sign you are legally obliged to follow through, so be sure to carefully read each one. If you have any questions at all speak to the supplier or a legal professional before you sign.
What can I expect to see on a contract?
Here’s a list of the basics, and not all, of the details each contract will include:
- Details of all parties involved including the suppliers details and couple getting married.
- Date, time, and location of wedding.
- All services being provided. Obviously this will change depending on supplier type, such as a photographer and florists details will be different.
- Itemised total charge.
- Deposit/booking fee paid.
- Payment plan.
- Details of cancellation policy/non-payment.
This is of course a general list and does not include every detail your supplier will include, as each supplier will have their own specific contract.
It’s important to stress, you should always ask any questions you might have before signing the contract. We advise speaking to your legal professional if you are not happy with areas of any contracts, and always keep a copy.
