I got marriage April 19, 2008. I'm not from St. Louis so it was a big chanllege choosing my vendors. I went online and did a lot of research. The big day came and everything was beautiful. The photographer that I chose came highly recommdended. It turns out that my pastors and siter-in-law used the photographers for a wedding. At the ceremony the photographer took several pictures so many that they took us away from a lot of memorable moments. When we first signed the contract there were a lot of verbiage stating what would happen if we the consumer breach the contract. However, they wasn't too much about there responsibility if they breached. It sparked me to ask "What happens if you don't come through?" Their responds was that has never happens. Anyway the agreement was four installments of four hundred dollars on four different dates. The first time we met we made the payment and signed the contract. The second time we met was a week before the wedding and it seems as though I had to run then down a little. I became concerned because they lacked professionalism. I went with it because it was to late to book anyone else. The next meeting I was suppose to have my proofs and make the third payment. They never called or responded to my emails or calls. My contract stated that May 31 would be the third payment and I would receive proofs; July 31 I would have final payment and receive all pictures. I thought I was very patient with them calling occasionally and leaving polite messages. When my name and email address changed I informed all of my personal and professional contacts. One day in August out of the blue I called and the female of the business answered. She tried telling me that she emailed me but it got sent back. This information was not true but I moved on and informed her that I understood hardship but I really wanted my pictures and please let me know when they are availiable. I hadn't heard anything for several months. I went on maternity leave October 1 giving birth to a beautiful and healthy baby boy. I called everyday and left home and cell phone numbers for them to call me. I didnt receive any call. When i came back to work the third week in November she had emailed me(October 22)that the problem with the pictures was that her vendor had a back order with the albums. What does that have to do with me receiving my proofs? She informed me that when the albums was in she would give me a call. We have played email tag from then to now and she wants to meet this Saturday for the viewing. She sent me this email: "L., your payment due at the time we meet will be $336.65. It must be in cash, cashier's check or money order (we can't accept personal checks when picking up photos). Thanks again for your patience and I look forward to speaking with you in detail on Saturday." I'm really applaud!! I havent gotten rude yet because I really want my pictures. The total cost was $1600 and I have already paid $800. I haven't seen one picture. I want my pictures badly. How should i handle this? I feel I need to be compensated for the 6 month delay. I'm not going to ruin my children's holidays for their error. I need advise deseparately!!!!
You have paid half of the money. Tell them they will get the other half when you get the pictures. And, let them know you are not happy and will be contacting the BBB if there are any other issues. That is an insane amount of time to be waiting for ANY pictures!
Good luck.
Hi L., you may want to contact a lawer, especially if you have a signed contract and have your lawer contact them. This usually get a faster response.
Good Luck,
T.
Well, it sounds like a huge mess. I always go up the line of authority until I get someone to listen to me and actually care. If that doesn't work, I go to the Better Business Burea. They then call the company and try to work things out for you. Good Luck!
Hi L.,
I'm so sorry you have had such a terrible experience. Unfortunately they have what you want right now. I would do as was suggested and try to speak to someone who has more authority. I would meet them to view the pictures but I would not pay until you see/get them. I would also contact the BBB. Good luck - hopefully you at least get some beautiful pictures.
I'll tell you what - it helps to get mad. You've been nice and it's not working. I would show up with the money but absolutely do not give it to them until you see the photos. I would ask to speak to the owner and be livid about the time wasted. I would write out your ordeal - how often you've called, the lack of response, including dates. If they get defensive, or anything less than apologetic and accommodating, then they are not just disorganized, they are a shady business. Threaten to get your lawyer involved. If you like the photos and want them, then tell them you expect them by a certain date. Demand compensation for the difficulty they've put you through in the form of a substantial discount for the photos or additional photos above and beyond your order. They owe you something. Get tough.
