Booking the right vendors is one of the biggest decisions you will make when planning an event. Whether it’s your wedding, a birthday, or a corporate launch, your vendors play a massive role in how smoothly the day runs and how unforgettable it becomes.

But what happens when a vendor gives off a weird vibe or makes promises that feel too good to be true? Don’t ignore it! The last thing you would wish for is a vendor that disappoints you at your event.

Here Are 5 Event Vendor Red Flags You Should Never Overlook:

1) Incomplete Contract or No Contract
If a vendor refuses to provide a clear contract that states the details of their service, deliverables, timelines, cancellation policies, and price. RUN!!
Always insist on written proof before making any payment! Run from verbal agreements!

2) Poor Communication
If it takes days or weeks to get a response before you have been booked, imagine how long it will take once you have paid them. Take the delayed response as a warning sign and RUN!!

3) Limited Portfolio/No Reviews
Social proof matters! If a vendor can’t show you past work or lacks real, verifiable reviews, that’s a major red flag.
You deserve to see evidence of their professionalism and results.

4) Unwillingness to Collaborate
Your event is about you, not them. If a vendor seems rigid, dismissive of your ideas, or pushes their own style without listening to your vision, they may not be the right fit. Choose someone who listens, understands, and adapts.

5) No backup Plan or Team
Great vendors plan for the unexpected. If they fall sick, or if weather interferes, what happens next? A vendor without a contingency plan is a liability. Make sure there is always a plan B

Finally, trust your gut! Sometimes a red flag isn’t loud; it’s a feeling. If something doesn’t sit right during the early conversations, it’s worth pausing. The best events come from partnerships built on trust, transparency, and respect.

Planning with Amourartelia? We vet every vendor we recommend, and we welcome yours too. Our priority is making sure your event is smooth from start to finish.