Hiring a Wedding Decorator?

Hiring a Decorator?  Here are some things to keep in mind when looking to book a decorator for your wedding.

1. Ask Questions such as...

a) How long have you been in business?

b) What is your experience/ background?

c) Are you insured?

d) Do you have a showroom or a store front that I can visit?

e) How many weddings have you done?

f) How many weddings do you do in a year and in a day?

g) Do you do this full time?

h) What is your cancellation policy?

i) Do you have any training or any certifications?

The answers to these questions and what is of importance to you is your call. It's more about how comfortable and honest they are when answering questions like these.

2. Although your budget is important, be wary of decorators priced too low. Remember every business has expenses and overhead to pay, they need to make a profit as well as pay their own personal bills and therefore should be priced accordingly. Vendors priced too low might not be in business at the time of your wedding and you may lose your deposit.

3. Always sign a contract, if its not in writing you have nothing protecting you and the deposit you've left. Also ensure that all the services they are providing are outlined in the contract.

4. Are they a legitimate business and take their business seriously? Legitimate businesses are registered with the province or incorporated. They should have a website, a business card and be insured. Be wary of businesses that have an e-mail that looks like this nameofcompany@hotmail.com.

5. Ask if all of the photos in their portfolio are their own work. It is very easy for people to "save as" off the internet and claim it as their own work.

6. Always call and check references, don't just go by testimonials.

7. Go with your gut. If it doesn't feel right then don't sign anything and definitely don't give a deposit. Remember these old pieces of advice "You get what you pay for" and if it "Sounds too good to be true, it probably is".

This article is writted by Stephanie Thompson, WPICC of Stephanie Thompson Wedding Design copyright 2009