Read your contract (Yes, Every Single One)
July 29, 2025
By J Costello Wedding Officiants
Let’s be honest: contracts are not the most exciting part of wedding planning. You’re dreaming about your dress, your playlist, your ceremony, and your cake—not scrolling through fine print.
But here’s the thing: reading your contracts carefully is one of the smartest things you can do.
Whether it’s your venue, photographer, officiant (hi!), DJ, florist, or anyone else on your vendor team, understanding exactly what’s included—and what’s not—can save you from major stress and surprise costs down the line.
Why Contracts Matter
A contract is more than just a formality. It’s a written agreement that protects both you and your vendor by clearly outlining:
- Services being provided
- Payment terms
- Cancellation and rescheduling policies
- Overtime fees
- What happens if someone gets sick or something unexpected comes up
- What’s required from you (like arrival times, access, or final payments)
If a vendor doesn’t provide a contract? That’s a red flag. Verbal agreements are nice—but written ones are essential.
What to Look For
Here are a few key things to check in every wedding contract:
- Cancellation and Refund Policies: What happens if you need to cancel or change your date?
- Payment Schedule: When is the retainer due? When is the final payment expected? What type of payments do they accept?
- What’s Included: How many hours of coverage are you getting? Does it include setup and teardown?
- Overtime Fees: If things run late, will you be charged? If so, how much?
- Important Deadlines: When are song choices due? When do you need to submit a ceremony script or final timeline?
These details matter—and knowing them upfront prevents confusion or frustration later.
Ask Questions (Seriously, It’s Okay)
Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. If something seems vague or confusing, speak up! Any good vendor will be happy to explain their policies. Your peace of mind is part of what you’re paying for.
And if you need something adjusted or added—like a later start time or a backup plan in case of rain—have that included in writing.
Final Thoughts
Reading your wedding contracts might not feel glamorous, but it’s a powerful part of protecting your day and your investment. You’ve worked hard and invested significantly to plan this celebration—make sure the expectations are clear, fair, and documented.
So please—read every contract. Ask the questions. And only work with vendors who offer one.
Because clear contracts make for smooth wedding days. And smooth wedding days make space for what really matters—you two, getting married.
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J Costello Wedding Officiants
Helping couples have stress-free, personalized ceremonies (with a solid contract to match)
