What to Do When a Client Wants to Fire Their Current Vendor… and Hire YOU Instead
📋 Blog Highlights
Never jump into a client relationship without confirming they’re no longer under contract with another vendor.
Keep communication professional and never speak poorly about another wedding pro.
Protect your business and reputation with clear contracts, boundaries, and empathy.
Let’s set the scene:
You’re minding your business, scrolling your DMs or checking your email, and then — bam! — a message pops up.
"Hi! I’m currently working with a [wedding planner/florist/photographer/etc.], but things aren’t going the way I hoped. I’m considering making a switch. Are you available for my wedding date?"
Cue the instant mix of flattery… and a little panic.
Because yes, it's exciting to be seen as the better option. But it's also a sticky situation with ethical, legal, and business implications you cannot ignore.
In this post, we’re walking through what to do (and what NOT to do) when a potential client is already under contract with another vendor in your category and wants to hire you instead. Whether you're a planner, florist, DJ, or photographer—this applies to you.
💬 First: Pause Before You Respond
As tempting as it is to hit “reply” with a YES and a calendar link, let’s pump the brakes.
Clients reaching out under these circumstances are emotionally charged. They may be stressed, disappointed, or even angry. You need to respond with professionalism and empathy—not opportunism.
Start with a calm, supportive message:
“Hi [Client’s Name], thank you so much for reaching out and for considering me! I’m so sorry to hear things aren’t going as expected with your current vendor. Before we move forward, can I ask—are you currently under contract with them?”
Boom. You've acknowledged the issue, positioned yourself as empathetic, and opened the door for clarity.
🔎 Step 1: Determine If They're Under Contract
Here’s why this matters:
If the client is still contractually bound to another vendor, stepping in without caution can expose you to some serious issues:
🛑 Legal liability (yep, the other vendor could pursue you for interference of contract)
🧨 Industry drama (vendors will talk)
🧯 Reputation damage (you don’t want to be “that” vendor)
✅ If they are under contract:
Encourage them to try to work things out or properly terminate the relationship first.
“Out of respect for industry professionalism (and to avoid putting you in a tough spot!), I’d encourage you to review your current contract and try to resolve any issues. If you do decide to terminate your agreement and need support afterward, I’d love to reconnect then!”
❌ If they are NOT under contract (or have already canceled):
You’re in the clear to move forward—just make sure the paperwork and communication trail backs that up.
🤝 Step 2: Stay Professional. Always.
Here’s the thing, friend: It’s not your job to bash another vendor, even if the client is venting.
Avoid phrases like:
“Ugh, I’ve heard that about them before…”
“Well, that’s why people book me instead.”
“Yikes. That sounds like a disaster.”
Instead, stick with neutral professionalism:
“That sounds really frustrating. Planning should feel exciting and supported. I’d love to talk more about how I work with clients to help them feel confident and cared for.”
✨ Let your work, process, and energy speak for themselves. That’s what attracts dream clients anyway.
📑 Step 3: Cover Yourself With Clear Communication
If the client does decide to terminate their previous vendor contract and move forward with you, get everything in writing.
✔️ Confirm they’re no longer bound to the other vendor.
✔️ Get a signed contract with your terms and timeline.
✔️ Ask about any overlapping communication, plans, or vendor relationships they’ve already made through their former vendor.
This isn’t about snooping—it’s about setting expectations and protecting your boundaries.
🙅♀️ What NOT to Do
Let’s talk about red flags (for both the client AND you).
🚩 Red flags to look out for:
They refuse to explain why they’re switching.
They speak disrespectfully or inappropriately about their current vendor.
They seem chaotic or unclear about expectations.
Because here’s the truth:
If they’re ghosting or disrespecting their current vendor… they might do the same to you.
Use your discovery call to dig deeper and determine if this is truly a dream client—or just a nightmare waiting to happen.
✅ What TO Do: Protect Your Integrity & Reputation
The wedding industry is a small, tight-knit community. If you're known as someone who poaches clients or jumps at shady inquiries, it will catch up with you.
But when you handle situations with class, empathy, and firm boundaries? Your reputation will only grow.
Pro Tips:
Stay in your lane, always.
Refer to another vendor if it’s not a fit.
Keep vendor relationships strong—your referrals and collaborations depend on it.
💬 Final Thoughts: You Can Say Yes… the Right Way
Yes, you can say YES to the client.
Yes, you can step in when they’re disappointed with someone else.
Yes, you can still be booked ethically and with confidence.
But only when you’ve done your due diligence, kept it classy, and made sure you’re not walking into legal, logistical, or reputation-ruining hot water.
You’ve worked hard to build your business with integrity. Protect it.
🔐 Reminder:
This blog is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney when reviewing contracts or navigating legal business decisions.
At The Social Attendant, we love all things social media and helping wedding professionals take their businesses to the next level. Lori was a wedding planner for 19 years and has been helping wedding creatives like you since 2020 with their social media management, consulting/coaching, and virtual assistant tasks . Let’s chat about how we can help!
