THE month of August still may be a busy time for those thinking of getting married.

York is one of the country's most popular places for couples tying the knot, whatever the date. But even the smallest affair takes a lot of time and money to organise, so prospective brides and grooms need to make sure they are well prepared and know their rights in case everything does not go to plan.

The Supply of Goods And Services Act of 1982 requires that all services should be carried out with reasonable care and skill. So your florist, photographer or hairdresser should do a reasonable job to a professional standard of work.

Any goods that you buy must be of satisfactory quality, fit for their purpose and correspond with any description attached to them.

For example, table decorations should not be shoddy in appearance and your wedding cake should arrive in the colours requested. It is always best to agree costs before you employ anyone to supply items or services for the wedding.

If a price is not agreed beforehand, the law states that you pay a reasonable price. What is classed as "reasonable" depends on the circumstances of each case, but often the local industry norm is a fair indication of what you should expect to pay.

It is vital that anyone providing you with goods or services is aware that they are needed for your wedding day. If they are unaware of the importance of the delivery or collection date and delays this could affect any claim for compensation you may have. City of York Council Trading Standards offers the following advice to help ensure that your big day runs as smoothly as possible:

Make sure you have written contracts with suppliers that include all important points such as the date, time and place for any deliveries or collections

Read the small print before you sign anything

Write to everyone who is providing you with goods or services confirming the details some weeks before the wedding so that you have time to make alternative arrangements if you have to

Always agree prices beforehand to avoid unforeseen expense

Avoid disappointment by being as specific as you can when asking businesses to provide you with items or services for your big day. For example, it is wise to giveyour chosen DJ or band a list of "dos" and don'ts" if you feel strongly about the music at your evening reception.

For advice on this, or any other consumer issue, contact Trading Standards Consumer Advice at 9 St Leonard's Place, York, telephone (01904) 551562 or e-mail us at trading.standards@york.gov.uk

Updated: 08:57 Thursday, August 05, 2004