How to Avoid PhotoBooth and Other Wedding Scams

Recently there has been an increase in unscrupulous businesses trying to cash in on the PhotoBooth and wedding trends. In recent years photoboths have become a major hit at weddings, parties and corporate events. We have seen a worrying increase of couples contacting us last minute because their photobooth supplier went "bust" or "disappeared". So here are a few things to remember when booking a photobooth or any other supplier.

• Avoid bank transfer or PayPal friends and family. Remember that even when paying by PayPal you are only covered for 180 days. Pay at least £100.00 on a credit card to benefit from Section 75. This would cover your FULL payment even if the rest was paid in cash. Don’t rely on wedding insurance. We have seen some T&C’s state they will not pay out until a company officially goes into liquidation. This doesn’t help those who have been scammed.
• Check exactly what’s included. There are a few companies who offer cheap photobooth hire then charge extortionate rates for photos or digital copies.
• Ask for photos! The term “PhotoBooth” is broadly used by some suppliers. Check exactly what you are getting. We have had photos from couples sent to us whereby the booth that turned up was simply a camera on a tripod.
• Don’t go by just reviews. In this time of age “fake” reviews are so easy to buy online.
• Check that the company carries Public Liability Insurance and are PAT tested. Your venue may insist of this, although not a legal requirement any legitimate business will have this as a minimum.
• Research your supplier. A simple search on Facebook will show you discussions about the company. You can quickly check them out.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for reassurance. Ask what happens if things go wrong. After a cancelation 2 years ago we put in place a robust “plan b” should the worst happen and we are unable to make a booking. This ensures your day isn’t ruined.
• Stay in touch with suppliers. From the moment of booking to approx. 2 weeks before your event you don’t normally here from most companies. Don’t be afraid to pick up the phone for a chat to make sure things are all OK.
• Check for contact details. Can you see a telephone number or address on their website?
• READ THE CONTRACT. Don’t pay any supplier who doesn’t show you a contract before you book. Check those hidden terms.
• Don’t rush! Any decent supplier will honour deals or offers until you have at least spoken to your partner. Don’t feel pressured to make a payment then and there.

These are just a few things to look out for. But remember your gut feeling is normally right. If a deal looks too good to be true it normally is.

With your Wedding Industry you pay for quality and experience. The cheapest option isn't always best.