Make Wise Decisions When Planning a Wedding

Since the cost of an average wedding is between $10,000 and $15,000, engaged couples and their families need to make wise business decisions when planning a wedding, says Dr. Bernice Wilson, an urban resource management specialist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

Weddings involve numerous business transactions including wedding attire, invitations, flowers, photography, catering, music, facilities, transportation and travel packages. Every bride and groom wants a perfect wedding and if a couple does proper planning, their special day will usually be just that.

Here are a few suggestions to help prevent problems before, during and after your wedding:

Decide what style wedding you want (large or small, formal or informal), and time of year. Begin planning as far ahead as possible. A big wedding may take a year to plan. Many books and magazines are available that offer ideas as well as checklists and timetables. In some cities, wedding coordinators are also available for hire.
Once you have made basic decisions, get your date placed on the church's calendar, and book a caterer and photographer. Brides, be aware that in most cases, it takes a minimum of three months to get your wedding dress delivered unless you are fortunate enough to buy one off the rack.
Research businesses you're considering working with. Talk to other couples to learn about their experiences, or call the Better Business Bureau for a reliability report.

Review samples of work and service before booking. Attend performances of a band or DJ at another function, look at photo albums or videotapes done for other couples, get descriptions of or try to sample menu items for the reception or rehearsal dinner, and check out samples of flower arrangements. Some restaurants may let you sample menus for rehearsal dinners at a special sitting, especially if you let them know you are considering it for the wedding.
Obtain a written contract for everything. The various contracts should say exactly what is included and not included in the price. For example, will the caterer or reception hall provide servers, dinnerware, flatware, linens, chairs and tables? Does the price of photos include engagement pictures, an album or proofs? Are the names of the band members and song lists included in the entertainment contract? Does the contract for the florist and/or cake caterer include delivery and set-up times?

Be particularly clear about all policies and penalties for canceling or changing your plans or orders. Make sure your caterer and florist have a copy of church policies for sanctuary and/or reception hall. Some churches don't allow regular candles, and some churches are very strict about the types of foods or colors of punch that may be served. The same is true for music. Some churches have strict rules about the type of music sung or played in a service.
Confirm all services one or two weeks prior to the event. You don't want any unpleasant surprises on your wedding day.

SOURCE: Dr. Bernice Wilson, Urban Specialist, Resource Management, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, (256) 858-4969