When talking with your event and wedding pros have you heard the words commission, referral fee, kickback?  If so, we need to talk.

There is a perception out there that, Wedding Planners especially, make a lot of money from referral fees or kickbacks.  Whoa! Not cool!

Let's clarify, at Fabuluxe Events we do NOT accept referral fees or commissions of any sort.  However, if another event professional wants to give our clients a discount based on our relationship that is fantastic.  We just helped you find a superb vendor and you saved some money.  Works for everyone!

Some people feel that by offering a commission they can secure more business from Planners.  While that may work with some people, we only refer people that we trust 150%.

We want people to refer us to you because they trust us, they know we will go above and beyond to make your day spectacular, they know we are professional and have the highest standards and ethichs.  And it goes both ways, we only refer those who meet our rigid standards.  

Our "Preferred Vendor List" has been carefully curated and updated over time.  And here is a sneaky little tidbit...that shiny brochure you may have received from your venue has lots of great wedding vendors...but did you know that those vendors paid to be in that shiny brochure?  Yep, that's right, in many cases vendors have to pay to be in those fancy, shmancy brochures. 

As always, go with your instincts and first thoughts...they are usually right.  Ask your vendors if they give or receive commissions or referral fees.  And take the time to get to know your vendors before hiring them.

Cheers,

The Fabuluxe Team

We are constantly asked this question "Should I negotiate with my wedding vendors to get a better price?"  and oh boy, is that a loaded question.  Weddings are expensive...we get that. 

1.  Wedding and event professionals appreciate honesty.  So, if you are interested in a vendor that might be a stretch for your budget it's ok to say "Hi, I really love your work...but my budget is only $$$ is there anyway we can work together?"  You will get immediate respect for being honest, the vendor is then likely to try to work something out, or will be up front with you and let you know if it can't be done.  

2. "My wedding is on a Friday or Sunday do you give discounts for those days?"  Think of it this way, does your car insurance cost less on certain days of the week..probably not.  The cost of labor, materials, liability insurance, electricity are all the same no matter what day of the week.  So the day of the week of your event, most likely, will not affect pricing for your photographer, videographer, planner, florist, calligrapher, invitation designer.  In some instances, your venue may have discounted prices for certain days of the week or certain times of the year.  It's ok to ask, but be prepared for the answer to be "no."

3. "My friend only paid $$$, I want to pay the same or can you give me a discount since I was referred to you?"  We love referrals from past clients.  There is no bigger compliment than a previous client referring us to you.  However, remember that your friend's wedding may have been years ago, may have had a smaller guest count, may have different locations. There are many variables that go into pricing.  Expecting a discount or to be able to negotiate because of a referral can cause unneeded stress and worries on both sides of the process.

Remember, honesty is always the best policy.  Trying to go back and forth with your vendors and picking apart their proposals will only cause tension and resentment for you and the vendor.

Honesty and having realistic expectations will get you far better service and maybe even a few "extras."  

Cheers,

The Fabuluxe Team