Once you've decided to work with a particular wedding service provider, get a written contract or letter of confirmation. It should include your name and address, their name and address, a definition of the specific service you've contracted, times of arrival and departure, goods that will be delivered and time of delivery, contracted costs, overtime costs, deposit paid and balance due.

Your contract should also include several important dates:

•  Your wedding date;
•  Date contract was written;
•  Date your deposit was paid; and
•  Date the balance is due.

Include all the details you've agreed upon. The more details you write in the contract, the more likely you are to receive everything you've discussed when the wedding arrives, (which may be 18 months from the time your contract is made.) List the specific type and number of flowers in each bouquet; the specified dinner menu; the flavors of the cake; the poses you definitely want for your photo album, or any other information.