Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Buyer Beware!

If it Seems to Good to be True, IT IS!

Everyone loves a great deal. I love a great deal! Especially on a fantastic new pair of designer shoes! But that doesn't mean I'll purchase a knock off. Not only can you see it from a mile away, but even the best knock off doesn't come with long term quality. And if there's one day that demands nothing but quality, it's your wedding!

Searching for the right wedding vendors to service your big day is a daunting and grueling task. There seem to be millions of choices and a mass array of package options. So to get you started on the right path, let's review some basics:

1. Start with a Realistic Budget and Stick to it. Set yourself up with the right starting point by making sure your budget is realistic when compared to the product / service you're expecting to receive. From there, don't waste your time looking at vendors you can't afford and skip over the ones that are below your price point. You know what you are willing and able to spend, so concentrate your efforts on those vendors who fit that budget.

2. Compare Apples to Apples. When price shopping makes sure the packages you're comparing offer the same standard of service and the same perks. If the wording used is ambiguous, just ask the vendor for clarification. And remember, price isn't everything! You don't want to get caught up in a pricing match, only to realize that the end result is poor service.

3. Beware of the "Too Good" Deals. Generally speaking, you get what you pay for. If someone is below the market average, ask yourself and them why? Quality vendors charge accordingly. Remember you're not just paying for a product but also for the service that goes with it. That's not to say that you should rule out professionals who are just starting out and trying to build a client base and a portfolio, hence the lower than average pricing. Just make sure you fully understand what you're getting in the end.

For the most part, it's about your due diligence. If you're working with a wedding planner than you've got the bases covered. They'll know which questions to ask to make sure you're getting what you need. If you're doing it on your own just keep in mind that you should ask however many questions you need to, to ensure you walk away feeling comfortable about what you've just paid for. In the case of vendors with tangible products, i.e. a transportation company or a DJ, don't be afraid to ask to see the products. Check out the cleanliness of the vehicles or the standard of musical equipment. You don't need to be an expert to pick out a worn down car or a sound system that looks like it has had it's share of tough times!

And alway remember the service aspect. Do you mesh well with the professional? Are your personalities a match? You want to make sure that every wedding vendor you work with is on the same page as you in your wedding day vision. After all, it's your day!

All the Best!

Kasia


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