The Aisle does not handle money between you and a vendor. We are a directory. Whatever you agree is a contract between the two of you, so these habits are worth having.
Get it in writing before you pay. Not a chat about what is included, an actual list. What they deliver, when they arrive, when they leave, how many people they bring, what happens if the guest count changes, and what is specifically not included. Most wedding disputes in Uganda are not fraud. They are two people who each remembered the conversation differently.
Never pay the full amount up front. A deposit to hold the date is normal and reasonable. Everything up front is not. Agree a schedule with a meaningful balance due on or near the day.
Pay to the business, and keep the receipt. If you pay by mobile money, check the registered name that comes up matches the business you are hiring. Screenshot the confirmation. Keep it somewhere that is not just your phone gallery.
Be wary of pressure. “Another couple is asking about your date, send the deposit today” is sometimes true and is also the oldest line there is. A vendor you want will still be worth having tomorrow.
Ask what happens if they cannot make it. Illness and double bookings happen. A professional has an answer ready and will name the person who would cover. Someone who has never thought about it is telling you something.
Meet or video call before a large payment. Especially if you are planning from abroad. For venues, visit. Our guide on venue site visits covers what to look at beyond the pretty pictures.
Keep the conversation on The Aisle where you can. If a vendor pushes you off the platform immediately and asks for money before anything is agreed, slow down. Never send passwords or card details through messages. Our Terms prohibit that, and no legitimate vendor needs them.
If a vendor on The Aisle behaves badly, report it to us. We cannot mediate your dispute, but we can act on the listing, and it protects the next couple.
Then, when the day is done, leave an honest review.