What should a wedding vendor contract include?

A wedding vendor contract should list both legal names, the date, address and hours, exactly what is included, the total price with taxes and service charges, the deposit and payment dates, overtime rates, and cancellation and refund terms for both sides. Red flags include cash-only payment, no written contract and same-day pressure to sign.

Wedding Vendor Contracts: 12 Red Flags to Check Before You Sign

A clear contract protects both you and the vendor. Read each one before paying a deposit.

Every Contract Should State

Both legal names, the event date, the address and start and end times
Exactly what is included, with quantities and hours
Total price, taxes, service charges, deposit and due dates
Overtime rates
Cancellation, postponement and refund terms, for both sides
What happens if the vendor cannot attend (replacement, refund)
Insurance, if your venue requires it

Red Flags

No written contract, or a contract with no date
Cash-only payment
"Non-refundable" on everything with no exceptions if the vendor cancels
A total that is far below every other quote
Pressure to sign the same day for a "special price"
The person you met is not the person who will work your wedding, and the contract does not say so
Vague wording such as "full coverage" or "standard package"
No business name, address or phone number

Protect Your Money

Pay by credit card when possible, keep copies of every contract and message, and consider event insurance for large deposits. If something goes wrong, the FTC and your state attorney general accept complaints.

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Wedding Vendor Contract Red Flags