What to Check Before Signing a Wedding Contract

Before you sign anything, read the whole contract, not just the first page. Look for the names of both parties, the date and location of your wedding, and the exact services or goods you are paying for. If anything is missing, ask the vendor to add it before you sign.

Check the payment schedule. How much is the deposit and when is it due? When are the final payments due? Are there any late fees? Make sure the schedule fits your budget and that you know exactly what you are paying for at each stage.

Also check what happens if you need to change the date or the number of guests. Some contracts allow changes for a fee, others do not. If you think you might need flexibility, ask for a clause that allows one date change without penalty.

Deposits are usually a percentage of the total cost, but the exact amount varies by vendor and by season. Some vendors ask for a fixed amount, others ask for a percentage. Always ask what the deposit covers and whether it is refundable under any circumstances.

Payment schedules also vary. Some vendors ask for the full amount upfront, others split it into two or three payments. Never pay the full amount before the service is delivered. A typical schedule might be a deposit to secure the date, a second payment a few weeks before, and the final balance on the day.

If you are paying a large deposit, consider using a credit card. Under UK consumer law, you may be able to claim a refund from your card provider if the vendor goes bust or fails to deliver. This protection can apply to purchases over a certain amount, so it is worth checking with your card provider before you pay.

Every contract should state what happens if you cancel. Look for a cancellation fee that increases as the wedding date gets closer. Some vendors keep the deposit, others charge a percentage of the total. Make sure you understand how much you would lose at each stage.

If you cancel because of illness, bereavement or a change of heart, the policy may be different. Some vendors offer a partial refund if they can rebook the date. Others do not. Ask for a clear written policy before you sign.

If you need to cancel, do it in writing and keep a copy. Ask for a refund receipt or confirmation. If the vendor refuses to refund and you believe they are not entitled to keep the money, you can take the dispute to a small claims court. Check the contract for any dispute resolution clause first.

A force majeure clause covers events outside anyone's control, such as extreme weather, illness, or government restrictions. It should say what happens if the vendor cannot provide the service, and what happens if you cannot attend. Some contracts allow a full refund, others offer a credit note or a date change.

Read this clause carefully. Many contracts only cover events that make the wedding impossible, not events that make it difficult. For example, a storm that floods the venue might be covered, but a transport strike might not. If you are worried about a specific risk, ask the vendor to add it to the clause.

If the vendor cancels because of a force majeure event, they should offer a full refund or a reasonable alternative. If they do not, you may be able to claim under your insurance or through your card provider.

A non-refundable deposit means you lose that money if you cancel, no matter the reason. It is common for venues, photographers and caterers to ask for a non-refundable deposit to secure your date. Make sure you are comfortable losing that amount before you pay.

Some vendors use the term 'non-refundable' but still offer a refund if they can rebook the date. Ask for this in writing. If the vendor rebooks your date, they may be willing to transfer your deposit to a new date or refund it minus a small admin fee.

If you change your mind after paying a non-refundable deposit, you are unlikely to get it back. That is why it is important to be sure before you sign. If you are not ready to commit, wait until you are.

If you need to cancel a vendor, check your contract first. Find the cancellation clause and follow the steps exactly. You may need to give written notice by a certain date. Keep a copy of your cancellation letter or email.

If you are cancelling because the vendor has breached the contract, for example by not providing the service you agreed, you may be entitled to a full refund. Document everything, including emails, photos and receipts. If the vendor refuses to refund, you can take the matter to a small claims court.

If you are cancelling because you have changed your mind, you are likely to lose your deposit. However, some vendors may offer a partial refund if they can rebook the date. It never hurts to ask politely.

Before you sign, ask for any verbal promises to be put in writing. If the vendor said they would include extra chairs or a free tasting, make sure it is in the contract. If they will not add it, you may not be able to rely on it later.

Check that the contract includes the vendor's full contact details and their business name. If the vendor is a limited company, you can check their registration online. If they are a sole trader, ask for a home address.

Finally, read the contract one more time the day before you sign. If anything is unclear, ask. A good vendor will be happy to explain. If a vendor pressures you to sign quickly, that is a warning sign. Take your time and only sign when you are happy.