The contract should include the following information:

• Vendor's Contact Info: name, address and telephone number. If a studio, be sure it mentions the specific representative that is to perform the duties at your wedding (ie: photographer, videographer).
• Bride & Groom's Contact Info: name, address, telephone numbers.
• The date and time of the wedding.
• The location(s) of the wedding. Include any address that the vendor will need. If this is unknown at time of date, make a note that this will be supplied at a later date.
• Services: length of their service - when will they start and when will they finish. Be sure that they include setup and breakdown of their equipment. An itemized list of ALL the services that the vendor will be supplying (ie: speakers, microphone, linens, etc). If a vendor promised you any 'extras' be sure it is listed in the contract.
• Backup services. If the vendor is not able to attend the wedding, be sure that he has a backup for your event.
• Goods: list the specific details. Include quantity, sizes, delivery date, color, etc.
• Payment information: total cost (including tax) and payment schedule, such as deposit due date and final payment date. Be sure it also indicates overtime rate.
• Cancellation policy.
• Dress code policy.
• Last dates to make any necessary changes.

Tip: pay with a credit card. Using a credit card will protect you in the rare case of a mishap. For instance, if the photographer shows up late and misses the ceremony, you will have your credit card company to turn to for help if you can’t seem to negotiate with the vendor. Send a letter of explanation with copies of any contracts and receipts to your credit card company. They will, in turn, contact the vendor. If the credit card company feels that the vendor did not follow his obligations according to the contract, they will not release any funds. If you pay in cash or check, the vendor has your money and you will have to file a claim against them.