Texas-Dallas and Ft. Worth

Photographer -- VENT

So you guys might remember I asked a few weeks ago if there was anything I was missing with my photographer because the price was so good.  Well, in the end, I decided I did want to check out a few other options to ease my mind and make sure we made the right decision.  We already put a deposit down to save our date and we signed our contract.

Since we're over a year out from our wedding date, I decided to e-mail our current photog.  I simply asked him if we would just owe the deposit if we cancelled our contract since we were still well over a year our from our wedding date and due to some "personal situations", we might have to re-examine our budget and make a few changes but we were completely unsure at the moment.  He e-mailed us back and said no, we would also owe the liquidated damages, which was fine as it was written in the contract, but $300 is a lot more than $100 so I had to talk to the FI about it.

I get an e-mail the very next morning asking what we had decided.  I e-mailed him back and let him know we had no time to discuss this issue yet and we would let him know as soon as we had.  He immediately e-mailed me back and basically said he's a very sought after guy and he needs a timetable on when we are going to make this decision as he has other inquiries coming in (read:  I have another bride who wants your date specifically), and that my inability to make an immediate decision was a concern and inconvenience to him.  Completely offended, I sent one final e-mail back stating I understood his concerns, but that losing $300 was a significant loss for us and it would take us some time to make that decision and we appreciated his understanding in this matter.  We have paid our deposit, we signed our contract, and we have fulfilled every part of our responsibilities and we deserve the opportunity to talk and make an educated decision and not be rushed.

Just got an e-mail that he has decided to terminate our contract because essentially its an inconvenience to him that I cannot give him a specific date and time in which I could make a decision.  I have NEVER worked with any WR or NWR this rude and unprofessional.  Am I bummed he canceled our contract?  Absolutely not -- we found someone much better!  However, I do want to caution people to thoroughly investigate who you hire.  I made a rush decision to hire him and it turned out very badly.  
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Re: Photographer -- VENT

  • edited December 2011
    Wow, that's horrible that he was so rude but it looks like it actually worked out better for you since you didn't have to pay anything extra. Is he returning the deposit since he terminated the contract? I would definately save those e-mails and demand the $100 since he terminated the contract.

    I'm glad it worked out for you!
  • edited December 2011
    I would also make sure I got my deposit back and refuse to pay any extra. Why would you have to pay $300 (which is supposed to make up for lost time in case they can't find a new client for your date) when he was saying he needed to know ASAP since he already had another couple waiting?? He sounds like a huge jerk, I'm glad you found this out now instead of on your wedding day!
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  • angelsong21angelsong21 member
    1000 Comments Second Anniversary Combo Breaker
    edited December 2011
    You guys think I really should push to get the deposit back?  I figured with him being this much of a jerk, I'd cut my losses and not push it.  But maybe I should push it...?
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  • edited December 2011
    He cancelled the contract of his own will, thus making the requirement of your deposit  void.  I would push back.
  • edited December 2011
    ABSOLUTLEY get your deposit back.  In the end, HE is the one that canceled the contract, not you.

    Who is the vendor, if you don't mind me asking?
  • edited December 2011
    Yeah, I know that my photog had a clause that the deposit of x% would be forfeited regardles, but if she could find a replacement I would be about to recoup the rest of what i owed/paid.

    I had a similar experience with his attitude when I e-mailed trying ot set up an initial appt, which is why I ultimately went with Stephanie. Apparently waiting to get firm Army leave dates is also an inconvenience to him.

    What exactly do the cancellation terms in the contract that you signed state - before you go after him to get that $300 back, make sure you are clear on what exactly you signed for cause that may bite you. However if he was that quick to cut ties, I am left to believe he already has a couple willing to take your place and in that case I would say you should be owed that money back.
    ~DFWs Resident Snark~
    I'm not so good with the advice... Can I interest you in a sarcastic comment?
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  • edited December 2011

    I say get your deposit back!  And I am also curious to know who the vendor is.

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  • edited December 2011
    I believe it's Evan, correct?

    Please please please check your contract because there probably is a term in their that says something about either party can terminate the contract and you'd still be liable for the $. Check for an indemnity clause. Most event related contracts will have something like that.
    ~DFWs Resident Snark~
    I'm not so good with the advice... Can I interest you in a sarcastic comment?
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  • edited December 2011
    Yes, HE canceled your contract, not you, so he owes you your deposit back.
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  • bsn1752bsn1752 member
    Seventh Anniversary 2500 Comments 5 Love Its Combo Breaker
    edited December 2011
    Yes, HE cancelled, therefore you get the deposit back.  Absolutely push it.
  • edited December 2011
    This is RIDICULOUS and since he cancelled you ABSOLUTELY should get your deposit back.
  • edited December 2011

    I'm probably more like you. I would cut my losses. He seems like a real jerk and I dont' like associating with those people no matter what.

  • angelsong21angelsong21 member
    1000 Comments Second Anniversary Combo Breaker
    edited December 2011
    Okay, well I talked to my parents and FI and both parties agreed with you all and said I should push to get the deposit back, so I wrote him a very brief e-mail that was to the point and non-confrontational stating that since he has elected to terminate our contract and not fulfill the obligations that both parties signed off on, we respectfully request that our deposit be returned to us in a timely manner.  I'm sure I will get a negative response, but it was worth the shot.  At this point, everything is in e-mail, no phone conversations.  I want it all in writing.

    I glanced over the contract again earlier and did not see a clause in there about him terminating and we'd still owe the deposit, so unless he's able to find a way to construe any other part of the contract to cover him on this, we *should* be owed the deposit back.  Even though I'm thankful for obvious reasons that we found out his true nature at this point, my hands are shaking as I type because I'm so mad about this.  I guess I'm really more mad at myself because usually I'm so careful about thinking through big decisions, and I clearly screwed up big time.

    And yes, it was Evan Godwin Photography.
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  • edited December 2011
    Ugh that sucks! Have you started looking at new photographers? What's your budget again?
    I know it's been said lots of times, but if you can afford the McGowans I would book them ASAP! After seeing my bridal sneak peeks, I am so happy that I chose them. They are so nice to be around too, even when I felt really awkward or uncomfortable, they were so helpful that everything ended up looking great anyways. They definitely know how to help you relax & enjoy your photo session.
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  • angelsong21angelsong21 member
    1000 Comments Second Anniversary Combo Breaker
    edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_texas-dallas-ft-worth_photographer-vent?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:102Discussion:86664583-ae88-4ed4-8ca5-2e06bc120e30Post:7b188012-6dfb-4e51-9206-5516e9842fc1">Re: Photographer -- VENT</a>:
    [QUOTE]Ugh that sucks! Have you started looking at new photographers? What's your budget again? I know it's been said lots of times, but if you can afford the McGowans I would book them ASAP! After seeing my bridal sneak peeks, I am so happy that I chose them. They are so nice to be around too, even when I felt really awkward or uncomfortable, they were so helpful that everything ended up looking great anyways. They definitely know how to help you relax & enjoy your photo session.
    Posted by TexanTreasure08[/QUOTE]


    Hehe, actually I am booking McGowans :)  They are awesome.  She made me feel so comfortable and confident especially after this nightmare of a situation.    I decided this time I'd rather spend the money to get better quality of photos and professionalism...
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  • edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_texas-dallas-ft-worth_photographer-vent?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:102Discussion:86664583-ae88-4ed4-8ca5-2e06bc120e30Post:8958be47-f154-4fac-9073-07178ce04d51">Re: Photographer -- VENT</a>:
    [QUOTE]Okay, well I talked to my parents and FI and both parties agreed with you all and said I should push to get the deposit back, so I wrote him a very brief e-mail that was to the point and non-confrontational stating that since he has elected to terminate our contract and not fulfill the obligations that both parties signed off on, we respectfully request that our deposit be returned to us in a timely manner.  I'm sure I will get a negative response, but it was worth the shot.  At this point, everything is in e-mail, no phone conversations.  I want it all in writing. I glanced over the contract again earlier and did not see a clause in there about him terminating and we'd still owe the deposit, so unless he's able to find a way to construe any other part of the contract to cover him on this, we *should* be owed the deposit back.  Even though I'm thankful for obvious reasons that we found out his true nature at this point, my hands are shaking as I type because I'm so mad about this.  I<strong> guess I'm really more mad at myself because usually I'm so careful about thinking through big decisions, and I clearly screwed up big time.</strong> And yes, it was Evan Godwin Photography.
    Posted by angelsong21[/QUOTE]

    I don't think you should beat yourself up too much about it. There might not have been anyway to know that he was a ticking time bomb, and there is also a lot of pressure to book vendors quickly so they don't get booked on your date. Luckily, you've still got plenty of time, and it sounds like everything worked out for the best!
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  • edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_texas-dallas-ft-worth_photographer-vent?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:102Discussion:86664583-ae88-4ed4-8ca5-2e06bc120e30Post:68e52392-006a-44c8-9fa2-94a4d83764c9">Re: Photographer -- VENT</a>:
    [QUOTE]In Response to Re: Photographer -- VENT : Hehe, actually I am booking McGowans :)  They are awesome.  She made me feel so comfortable and confident especially after this nightmare of a situation.    I decided this time I'd rather spend the money to get better quality of photos and professionalism...
    Posted by angelsong21[/QUOTE]

    Oh yay! You won't regret it! They are amazing!

    PS I sent you a PM :)
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  • edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_texas-dallas-ft-worth_photographer-vent?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local Wedding BoardsForum:102Discussion:86664583-ae88-4ed4-8ca5-2e06bc120e30Post:68e52392-006a-44c8-9fa2-94a4d83764c9">Re: Photographer -- VENT</a>:
    [QUOTE]In Response to Re: Photographer -- VENT : Hehe, actually I am booking McGowans :)  They are awesome.  She made me feel so comfortable and confident especially after this nightmare of a situation.    I decided this time I'd rather spend the money to get better quality of photos and professionalism...
    Posted by angelsong21[/QUOTE]

    SO happy to hear this.  Yay for another McG bride.
  • edited December 2011

    Well I really hope that you do have a positie outcome with this, especially if there's nothing in his contract to protect him for making that decision so brashly.I'm glad you were able to find someone with whom you feel comfortable working. Keep us posted on what happens.

    ~DFWs Resident Snark~
    I'm not so good with the advice... Can I interest you in a sarcastic comment?
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  • angelsong21angelsong21 member
    1000 Comments Second Anniversary Combo Breaker
    edited December 2011
    Thank you -- all of you -- so much for listening and for your advice.  I hope we have a positive outcome too but I'll let you guys know what happens.  I just really don't want anyone else to ever go through this.  It SUCKS.  Wedding planning is stressful enough even when you have amazing vendors, but dealing with a vendor like this escalates that stress to a whole new level.  Thanks again for your support and advice...it means a lot.
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  • angelsong21angelsong21 member
    1000 Comments Second Anniversary Combo Breaker
    edited December 2011
    :::::UPDATE::::::

    I received an e-mail back from him that he will refund the deposit but that I am not to contact him in any way from this point forward.  He states that his lawyer (yes, seriously, lawyer) informed him that he is entitled to damages because I gave an "interpreted cancellation notification" and he rattled off some other legal mumbo-jumbo.  He is returning the deposit to me only because he is "considerate of my situation."  I guess "considerate" means different things to different people.

    So yes, we will get our deposit back.  I'm still just blown away at how someone who's business depends on word-of-mouth referrals decides to act this way towards clients. 
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  • fallbride1109fallbride1109 member
    5000 Comments Fifth Anniversary 5 Love Its Name Dropper
    edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_texas-dallas-ft-worth_photographer-vent?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local Wedding BoardsForum:102Discussion:86664583-ae88-4ed4-8ca5-2e06bc120e30Post:68e52392-006a-44c8-9fa2-94a4d83764c9">Re: Photographer -- VENT</a>:
    [QUOTE]In Response to Re: Photographer -- VENT : Hehe, actually I am booking McGowans :)  They are awesome.  She made me feel so comfortable and confident especially after this nightmare of a situation.  <strong>  I decided this time I'd rather spend the money to get better quality of photos and professionalism</strong>...Posted by angelsong21[/QUOTE]

    I am so happy to hear this.  You won't regret it.
  • edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_texas-dallas-ft-worth_photographer-vent?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local Wedding BoardsForum:102Discussion:86664583-ae88-4ed4-8ca5-2e06bc120e30Post:ce0f52c6-f2a0-4c33-be3e-c7fdde0249e1">Re: Photographer -- VENT</a>:
    [QUOTE]:::::UPDATE:::::: I received an e-mail back from him that he will refund the deposit but that I am not to contact him in any way from this point forward.  He states that his lawyer (yes, seriously, lawyer) informed him that he is entitled to damages because I gave an " interpreted cancellation notification" and he rattled off some other legal mumbo-jumbo.  He is returning the deposit to me only because he is "considerate of my situation."  I guess "considerate" means different things to different people. So yes, we will get our deposit back.  I'm still just blown away at how someone who's business depends on word-of-mouth referrals decides to act this way towards clients. 
    Posted by angelsong21[/QUOTE]

    I have never heard such BS from someone especially someone trying to build their business in an industry that is mostly WOM.  I thought he was decent for the price before but now I would never recommend or encourage another bride to use him now.
  • edited December 2011
    Wow. Yea, I will definitely not be recommending him to anyone now. I kind of wish we could take him off of the vendor site.
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  • edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_texas-dallas-ft-worth_photographer-vent?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local Wedding BoardsForum:102Discussion:86664583-ae88-4ed4-8ca5-2e06bc120e30Post:73669fd9-964f-4efa-b36f-c28764f59273">Re: Photographer -- VENT</a>:
    [QUOTE]Wow. Yea, I will definitely not be recommending him to anyone now. I kind of wish we could take him off of the vendor site.
    Posted by TexanTreasure08[/QUOTE]

    Ditto
  • bsn1752bsn1752 member
    Seventh Anniversary 2500 Comments 5 Love Its Combo Breaker
    edited December 2011
    We can, we absolutely can remove him... there's no reason to openly recommend this kind of behavior...

    Kendall... care to remove?  :)
  • edited December 2011
  • angelsong21angelsong21 member
    1000 Comments Second Anniversary Combo Breaker
    edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_texas-dallas-ft-worth_photographer-vent?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:102Discussion:86664583-ae88-4ed4-8ca5-2e06bc120e30Post:a413c2f9-9bb2-492c-8e83-2dbba1cdabca">Re: Photographer -- VENT</a>:
    [QUOTE]A step ahead of ya ;)
    Posted by KendallandAlbert[/QUOTE]

    awesome, thank you for doing that!
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  • edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_texas-dallas-ft-worth_photographer-vent?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local Wedding BoardsForum:102Discussion:86664583-ae88-4ed4-8ca5-2e06bc120e30Post:ce0f52c6-f2a0-4c33-be3e-c7fdde0249e1">Re: Photographer -- VENT</a>:
    [QUOTE]:::::UPDATE:::::: I received an e-mail back from him that he will refund the deposit but that I am not to contact him in any way from this point forward.  He states that his lawyer (yes, seriously, lawyer) informed him that he is entitled to damages because I gave an " interpreted cancellation notification" and he rattled off some other legal mumbo-jumbo.  He is returning the deposit to me only because he is "considerate of my situation."  I guess "considerate" means different things to different people. So yes, we will get our deposit back.  I'm still just blown away at how someone who's business depends on word-of-mouth referrals decides to act this way towards clients. 
    Posted by angelsong21[/QUOTE]

    If you have a digital copy of your contract, I can ask some lawyer friends of mine to take a peek.

    Unless you're fine with paying him "damages."  What a child.
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