A great vendor contract is boring. It says exactly what’s included, exactly what’s not, and exactly what happens when something goes sideways. These are the questions that turn a pretty proposal into a contract you can actually rely on.

The Five You Cannot Skip

Whether you’re hiring a photographer, a florist, or a caterer — these five apply to all of them.

• What exactly is included in this price, line by line?
• What happens if you can’t make it the day of?
• What’s your overtime rate, and when does it kick in?
• When is the final balance due, and what’s your cancellation policy?
• Do you carry liability insurance, and can you provide a certificate?

The One Most Couples Forget

Ask for references from weddings within the last six months — not their highlight reel. Recent references tell you who the vendor is right now, not who they were three years ago.

“If a vendor hesitates to put it in writing, that is the answer.”