essentials

POP THE QUESTION

You’ve answered correctly by saying ‘I do’. Now it’s time to put your suppliers to the test…

By fashion_admin | Posted Fri 17 December 2010

If he hadn’t asked you to marry him, you wouldn’t be here today, planning the greatest day of your life. The moral of the story so far: if you don’t ask, you don’t get. Yet politeness, lack of courage and poor research means when it comes to vetting the all-important suppliers you’re trusting to make your day a reality, many of us don’t ask the necessary questions we need to give us complete assurance.   

It’s an all too common complaint. You visit a supplier to see if they’re right for you, then before you know it, they’ve bamboozled you with PR speak and you’ve ended up signing on the dotted line. Only, when the day comes, you realise the DJ doesn’t take requests, the caterer’s promise of extra touches are nowhere to be seen, the venue is hosting three other events at the same time to give you their undivided attention...

The way to avoid this is to ask them every question that pops into your head, repeatedly if needs be. The sign of a good service provider is that they will not treat you as a botheration for it. They need to show you they understand this is your day, and are happy and willing to assure you that you get what you want.

Always put everything you decide on in writing, check and double check any hidden extras, and insist on face-to-face consultations where you scan their portfolio and get piece of mind.

Don’t forget wedding suppliers are in the business to make money, and will always highlight their strengths while downplaying their weaknesses. Don’t be afraid to challenge them. And just because you like what you see is no assurance you’ll get it. When you visit their showrooms or attend events such as the Asiana Wedding Bridal Show, always look beyond the surface. The most reputable services will expect nothing less. Ask them about their history, to see testimonials from previous clients, about special deals – if you want to know anything about the company and the service they provide, it’s your right to know.

All you have to do is ask!