I have a question about wedding contracts?

Question

Tomorrow I am going to a Small Church to meet with the people who corrdinate the weddings. I wanted to make my own contract up so hopefully my needs will be clear and understood. Would it be legal to make my own? Would I need a notary to make it legal? The only person who has athority in the church to sign is the minister and he is not doing our service. A minister friend is. The church does not have their own contracts they just pencil you down when you make your down payment.
Also, the church does not take credit cards, so If I make my down payment to secure the date and they screw me over I won't get the $$ back. I have read so many stories on the net about brides being ripped off I want to make sure I am covered!
Does anyone have a suggestion?

Answer 1

First the contract is binding on both sides, remember that.

Start with the date(s) you wish to reserve the church. Remember to include rehearsal times. They will have to guarantee that they will not book the church for another function on those dates, provided that you pay the deposit and whatever fees they name.

Insurance is a huge deal. Make sure that the church's insurance policy covers you, your guests and the building. If not, make sure you have a policy to cover any unforeseen events. Either way, have it in the contract as to who provides what insurance.

If the church is damaged by accident or natural disaster before your wedding date and the church will be unavailable due to repairs needed; what then? Do they have permission to find an alternate church for you or will the ceremony take place outside?
If it is to be outside, who will supply the chairs, tents, etc? The church or you?

Penalties for breaking the contract must be considered. If you fail to pay the deposit, they can book the church for another function. At the same time, if they get another offer for use of the church; they will be honor bound by the first contract signed. Remember this is a two-way street. If you find a better church, then you are still obligated to your end of the deal with this church. Reasonable canclation fee should be included (in case somebody gets cold feet).


Finally, the minor details that must be spelled out...
Clean-up of the church.
Permission to perform communion.
Restrictions on photography/videography inside the church.
Restriction of alcohol consumption.
The use of scotch tape to hang up decorations.
Use of the PA equipment, piano/organ, and kitchen area.


This is just a guideline, but I hope it sparks a few more ideas for you.

Good luck and congratulations on the upcoming wedding.