Weddingbee boards

I booked a makeup artist pursuant to a contract.  To be honest, the contract isn't really that big of a deal unless you try to pursue them legally sometime down the road.  If you did sign a contract, it would likely say something along the lines of "if artist has to cancel, deposit will be refunded and artist will offer an alternative artist for the bride."  Also, if you give them a deposit and they take your money (or cash your check or whatever) that is evidence that they have entered into a contract for services with you.  It doesn't have to be in writing, but it's definitely not a bad idea to have it in writing.

I'm worried about the same thing, (vendors bailing on me) even though I have contracts with all of them.  The thing is, it's good to have a contract, but it's not a promise set in stone that your vendor will actually do what the contract requires them to do.  I think the risk is especially high with makeup/hair artists, because the amount of money they are being paid is low compared to the money involved in hiring a caterer or something.  I'm also worried about my hair or makeup artist bailing because they find something more lucrative on the day I need their services.  And what am I really going to do about it?  Sue them for the $50 deposit that I gave them?  It's a tough situation, and I think that's why getting good recommendations is important so at least you know they performed as expected for others.  It might also be a good idea to keep a list of other makeup/hair artists you are interested in and their contact information in the unfortunate case that one bails.