Top 10 Questions to Ask a Wedding Vendor

Did you know anyone you hire to deliver or provide something for your event such as bridal salons, disc jockeys, officiants and caterers have the potential to disrupt your wedding? What if your event site has a bankruptcy or fire right before your event?

Quick Answer

Before booking a wedding vendor, ask:

How long have you been in business? – Experience helps avoid surprises.
How many weddings do you book yearly? – More weddings = more expertise.
What are your prices and packages? – Avoid hidden costs.
What’s included in the price? – Confirm extras like delivery or setup.
What’s the deposit and payment schedule? – Plan your budget accordingly.
What’s the cancellation/refund policy? – Know your options if plans change.
Do you provide a contract? – A must-have for legal protection.
Are there additional fees? – Taxes, travel, or service charges?
Do you have liability insurance? – Ensures professionalism and protection.
Does my venue require event insurance? – Some venues require proof of liability.

Full Guide

Choosing the right wedding vendors is key to a smooth, stress-free wedding. From photographers and caterers to DJs and florists, each vendor plays a major role in your big day. Asking the right questions before signing a contract can help you avoid unexpected costs, cancellations, or service failures.

Below, you’ll find the top 10 questions every couple should ask wedding vendors, plus a free printable checklist to take with you when meeting potential vendors.

1. How long have you been in business?

More experience means better problem-solving skills. If a vendor is new, ask for references or past event photos to assess their reliability.

2. How many weddings do you book per year?

A vendor specializing in weddings (vs. corporate events) is better equipped to handle wedding-specific timelines, logistics, and challenges. Avoid vendors who overbook, as they may not give your event the attention it needs.

3. What are your pricing and package options?

Ask for a clear breakdown of costs to avoid hidden fees. Budget-friendly vendors can be great, but be cautious—cheaper doesn’t always mean better.

4. What is included in the price?

Some vendors bundle services, while others charge separately for delivery, setup, and post-event cleanup. Compare packages carefully.

5. What is the deposit, and when are payments due?

Wedding deposits vary widely. Some vendors require 50% upfront, while others accept smaller retainers. Ask about payment deadlines to avoid last-minute surprises.

6. What is your cancellation and refund policy?

If a vendor cancels, do you get a full refund? What if you reschedule? Some vendors have strict no-refund policies, so wedding insurance (like Wedsure’s Loss of Deposits coverage) can protect you financially.

7. Do you provide a contract?

Never hire a vendor without a contract. This document outlines responsibilities, timelines, pricing, and cancellation terms. Read the fine print before signing.

8. Are there any hidden or extra fees?

Watch out for service charges, gratuities, travel fees, and overtime costs. These should be disclosed upfront to avoid unexpected expenses.

9. Do you carry liability insurance?

Professional vendors (including photographers, DJs, and event planners) should have insurance in case of accidents, damages, or injuries. If a vendor doesn’t carry liability insurance, that’s a red flag.

10. Does my venue require event liability insurance?

Many wedding venues require couples to provide event liability insurance before the wedding. Check with your venue and consider policies like Wedsure’s Event Liability Insurance, which offers instant Certificates of Insurance.