ips from the BBB to help prevent a financial disaster with your wedding

Pick a date wisely. June is the most popular month for weddings, and also the most expensive. The same applys to a weekend wedding, as opposed to one during the week. 

Plan ahead. Reservations are often booked far in advance, allowing enough time to get the vendors you want, and the dates you prefer. This could mean you will have to place your reservations up to a year ahead of time. 

Set a budget and stick to it. You may find out later that you got so caught up in the beginning that now you can't afford some of the more important items that you've put on your planning list.

Comparison shop. Get at least three estimates for the purchases you're considering before you make a final desicion. Beware of the cheapest deal -- it may also be the lowest in value. 

Allow for delays. No matter how much pre-planning you do, hiccups will happen. When planning deliver dates, set them so that there will be plenty of time to allow for changes or corrections. 

Research a company you're considering. Ask your friends or reletives for references and recommendations. Call your local BBB or Department of Consumer Affairs to find out about the track record of the business . 

Observe a company in action. Whenever possible, visit wedding showcases. Ask for a client reference list, and call them to find out if they were satisfied with the service the vendor' performed. Check any business licenses, health permits, insurance, where applicable.

Get it in writing. Once you determine who you will use put everything you expect from them in writing. Include prices, products, dates, name brands, policies regarding deposits and cancellations then see that all parties sign the document.

Study the fine print, When someone provides you with a contract for their services make sure you know what it all means. Does it include all kinds of hidden costs, as well as taxes and service charges, that will bump up your bill unexpectedly? 

Pay with credit cards whenever possible. This method is also called a "Secured Payment" which lets you hold back charges and investigate problems before it's too late. Cash or checks offers the consumer no such follow-up protection. 

Keep all sales slips. They may later prove invaluable, should you need to make adjustments, exchanges or refunds, or simply need a proof of purchase. 

Take action, when advisable. If you have serious grievances, take them where it will do the most good, such as your local Department of Consumer Affairs. Similarly, the BBB will investigate any patterns of complaints, and when necessary, take action. You can find their number in the Yellow Pages, or lodge any complaint on their national website.