Amended 13 January 2011

With summer approaching, NSW Fair Trading Minister Virginia Judge is warning couples preparing to tie the knot, to be wary of wedding day financial disasters and resulting relationship stress.

Ms Judge said NSW Fair Trading received numerous complaints and enquiries every year about wedding and bridal products and services.

"Complaints generally relate to deposits, refunds, reception venues, photography, dresses and suits, car hire and honeymoon bookings," she said.

"Fair Trading has recently taken action against Leza Bridal Pty Ltd, trading as the Bridal Factory, a company in Wetherill Park found to have engaged in false and misleading conduct.

"Fair Trading received more than 60 complaints about the company, which at one stage was issuing invoices, receipts and business records under the name of a company in liquidation.

Of these complaints six were lodged relating to the operations under Leza Bridal Pty Ltd and 54 related to the operations under the Bridal Factory (Australia) Pty Ltd, which ceased trading on 12 December 2009.

"Consumers also experienced: poor quality dressmaking with damage to fabrics; dresses not matching the description given at the time a contract was signed; dresses not delivered within the timeframe specified, thereby preventing reasonable time for fittings; and, incorrect advice provided in relation to remedy, cancellations and warranties."

Fair Trading had sought specific undertakings from the trader regarding their conduct and would continue to monitor the company, with any further breaches likely to result in legal action.

"The wedding industry is a big money spinner," Ms Judge said.

"Brides and grooms should be aware of the risk of rip offs when planning their big day."

To avoid unwanted wedding debt and discomfort, Fair Trading suggests:

• Get detailed written quotes and written confirmation of arrangements and any deposits required.
• Be clear on refund policies and conditions and any cancellation charges.
• Make sure you know exactly what is included in the photography package including the number of photos, proofs supplied and your rights to the photos. Give your photographer a list of photos you want taken on the day.
• Wedding dresses can be expensive, so check with the dressmaker or retailer about alterations, fittings and special care instructions and make sure you get agreement on delivery dates.
• When booking the honeymoon, get the details of your trip in writing including locations, standard of accommodation, time of departure and special conditions
• such as tours, tickets, meals, entry fees, passports and visa requirements.
• If using a travel agent, make sure they are licensed.
• Consider travel insurance as it can cover loss of deposit, cancellation fees, medical expenses, personal liability, loss or theft of baggage and travel documents. Not all insurers offer the same conditions, so shop around.

Ms Judge said consumers should first try to resolve any problems regarding goods and services directly with the trader.

"If you can not reach agreement, contact Fair Trading on 13 32 20 for assistance," she said.

"If Fair Trading is unable to negotiate a satisfactory solution, consumers can pursue the matter through the Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal."

You can lodge a complaint or call 13 32 20.

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