Booking by referrals

Is it better to book vendors by referrals? I would say that the answer is "Maybe". It may be safer, but not always better. Vendors that have been in business for many years have the experience and network. New vendors may not have as much experience and large network, but they may offer both fresh and raw ideas and methods that can work to your advantage.

For some reason, someone thought I owned a limousine company, where as I clearly said that I can refer her to a limousine company. This happened a few years back and I still have no clue how the word "refer" can mean "own". If vendor A refers you to vendor B, it doesn't mean vendor A owns vendor B. In some cases vendor A might be held responsible if vendor B somehow jeopardizes the contract. In some cases, the customer and vendor B have to sort it out themselves.

If you are interested in booking vendors based on referrals, make sure that you read the contract carefully before signing it, just like when you book vendors not by referrals. Make sure all details are clear and follow up with the vendor directly, in this case vendor B, and not vendor A who refers you to B. This will help eliminate information overlap and possible delays caused by miscommunication. Understand vendor A's responsibility when it comes to vendor B's service, can A be held responsible when B messes up? or will it be just between you and B? Sometimes the contract will explain each vendor's role, sometimes you have to ask.

Basically, bookings by referrals will require just as much attention to details and research as non-referral bookings do.