You have done the research, you have chatted with me, and you have decided that I am the right photographer to capture your legacy. That is the hard part done! Now comes the easy part: making it official. In the wedding industry, dates are a finite resource. Until the paperwork is finalized, your date remains open on the market.
A critical question for couples ready to move forward is: What is required to secure our date? The process is simple and standard. To lock in your wedding day, I require a Signed Contract and a 50% Deposit. This post explains why these steps are necessary and how they protect your investment.
Do not let logistics stress you out. Secure a photographer who knows the area inside and out. Contact Adrian Bonet Photography to check availability for your venue today.
Index
The Two-Step Process: Contract & Deposit
The Power of Exclusivity
Payment Methods & Security
What Happens After You Pay?
Final Thoughts
The Two-Step Process: Contract & Deposit
1. The Contract
The contract is the foundation of our agreement. It outlines exactly what you are booking: the hours of coverage, the deliverables, the timeline, and the legal protections for both parties. Signing the contract ensures we are on the same page regarding expectations. It is a digital document that you can review and sign easily online from your phone or computer.
2. The 50% Retainer
Along with the contract, a 50% Retainer (Deposit) is due immediately. This payment acts as a “reservation fee.” It tells me that you are serious about moving forward. Until both the contract is signed and the deposit is received, the date is technically still available for other couples to inquire about.
The Power of Exclusivity
Closing the Calendar
Why is the deposit necessary? Because I offer Exclusivity. I do not double-book dates. Once your deposit lands in my account, I immediately close that date on my calendar. I will turn down every other inquiry for that day, regardless of how lucrative it might be.
First Come, First Served
Because the Riviera Maya is a popular destination, I often receive multiple inquiries for the same prime dates (especially Saturdays in spring). To be fair to everyone, I operate on a strict First-Come, First-Served basis. The couple who completes the booking process first secures the date.
Payment Methods & Security
Secure Online Payments
You do not need to wire money or write a physical check. I use Stripe, a secure online payment processor. You can pay your deposit instantly using any major Credit or Debit Card. This provides you with security, a paper trail, and the convenience of handling it from your couch.
The Remaining Balance
Paying 50% now secures the date. The remaining 50% Balance is not due until 30 days before the wedding. This split payment structure helps you manage your wedding cash flow, allowing you to secure your major vendors early without paying the full amounts upfront.
What Happens After You Pay?
Confirmation
The moment the process is complete, you will receive an automated confirmation email. You can breathe a sigh of relief: Your photographer is booked! You can now cross this major item off your to-do list.
The Planning Begins
Once you are an official client, we shift gears from “admin mode” to “creative mode.” I will send you my Welcome Guide, and we will begin the process of planning your engagement session, discussing your timeline, and dreaming up the shots we will create together.
Final Thoughts
Securing your date is the bridge between hoping for a great photographer and having one.
When you sign that contract and pay the deposit with Adrian Bonet Photography, you are buying peace of mind. You are securing a dedicated professional who is committed to showing up for you and capturing your day perfectly.