The M&M’s of Wedding Agreements
Last week, the folks over at Ultimate Guitar discussed the infamous story of Van Halen and the brown M&M’s. For those looking for an explanation, watch this video:
Apply This to Your Wedding Contract
No, the San Francisco Bay Area wedding professionals are not about to get this funky with their agreement. However it’s true, a wedding agreement between brides and grooms and their vendors can be tedious. Even my agreement for Master of Ceremonies and Wedding Entertainment is two pages long and filled with tiny print, most of which the Spencer Weddings and Entertainment lawyers tell me I have to include.
Yesterday, my friend Ron Ruth (of Ron Ruth Wedding Entertainment) has put together a list of 10 Tips to Precent Wedding Contract M&M’s (Misunderstandings & Mistakes). Most of the items pointed out are in my agreement, and I can’t stress point number 5 enough:
Be sure to get the name, in writing, of the individual(s) who will be performing the contracted services. Some wedding service providers may send employees or sub-contractors to work in their place without advising you first. Some of those individuals may be less experienced or not as well-trained. Ask that a fair and reasonable penalty clause be included in the contract if the person designated on the contract is, for any reason, a “no-show.”
I am the only employee at my company, but that doesn’t prevent me from clearly stating that I will be the representative from my company that performs at my wedding. At the same time, you’ll find multiple clauses that explain what happens in the event that I am unavailable – and when you connect with me and we arrange a meeting, I’ll discuss this in greater detail so you understand why I intend to be the DJ at your wedding.
Protection For Both Parties
I also think that Ron best sums up the goal of a contract or agreement, such that it is written to protect the consumer and the service provider. If you are ever unsure, ask your service provider what a certain clause means. A reputable company should be able to explain all the parts to you.
