Vendor Contracts

Before paying any deposits or signing a vendor contract, make sure all the important information is included in the fine print. From the date, time and location of the wedding to all the fees included or not included, Notes From the Mother of the Bride has a list of everything you want included in your vendor contracts.

For a list of must-ask questions for each vendor, click here.

The Band

Exactly how many band members are expected? What equipment will they bring, and what will they need at location? Who is responsible for what equipment? What will they wear? What time is set-up? We had a printed agenda down to the minute: when each course was to be served, when each special event or dance was to be announced, when to take the breaks. Be sure they know how to pronounce the names correctly.

26 questions to ask a potential wedding band or DJ

The Reception

All food and drink must be itemized. Most prices per person do not include service charges and gratuity. Specify liquor brand names if serving call drinks. Ask that refills on wine at dinner be by guests' request; do not automatically refill glasses.

Be definite about the final head count before you pay the bill. At the wedding have someone pick up unclaimed seating cards to verify your final count. Under-guarantee by 5 percent. This means if you are expecting three hundred guests, you "guarantee" 285 (i.e., you agree to pay for 285 people minimum). You and the caterer will account for final numbers. Speaking of percentages, expect 15 percent regrets if you have at least 25 percent out-of-town guests, slightly less if all guests are in-town.

25 questions you must-ask your caterer

The Bridal Consultant

Just what exactly will she do and not do; how many hours will she be needed? This is the person with the emergency sewing kit, extra socks, panty hose, bow ties, bustling expertise, and big shoulders to cry upon. Her duties involve the wedding ceremony and bridal party.

The Party Planner

What exactly will she do and not do; how many hours will she be needed? Will her duties begin after the ceremony with the reception, or will she help plan the ceremony?

30 questions you must-ask your wedding planner