Every bride and groom wants their wedding to be perfect. Although weddings are highly emotional events, they typically involve numerous business transactions as well for wedding consultants, clothes, invitations, flowers, photography, reception halls, catering, music, transportation and travel packages. Since the average wedding costs more than $15,000, BBB advises engaged couples and their families to make wise consumer decisions when planning weddings. The following suggestions can prevent problems before, after or during your wedding:

• Decide what style of wedding you want (for example, big or small, formal or informal, winter or summer) and begin planning as far ahead as possible.
• Set a budget for your wedding, and stick to it.
• Research businesses you are considering working with. Call the BBB for a reliability report on the company.
• Talk to other couples and learn about their experiences.
• Since many services and merchandise must be purchased or ordered months in advance, you want to deal with well-established and financially stable businesses. Don't just hire the least expensive company.
• Review samples of the service provider's work before booking.
• Obtain a detailed written contract for everything. Include the sizes, colours, product descriptions, prices and delivery dates.
• Get in writing the company's policy on cancellation and returning of any deposits paid.
• Keep deposits as small as possible as many are non-refundable.
• Schedule extra delivery time. Don't be lured by the lowest price.
• Don't be pressured into buying something you don't want or need.

Finally, confirm all services one or two weeks prior to the event. You don't want any unpleasant surprises on your wedding day.