From: WynnLindyB@aol.com
Date: Fri, 21 Jul 2000 11:15:40 EDT
Subject: Re: words of advice
To: BalloonsII@aol.com

Hi Liz,

Sorry to hear of all the problems.  If only each "hard" customer would 
realize how much we learn from them, and how much the next bride will learn 
from what we just learned.  It gets tougher for each generation of brides to 
pull things on us as we learn from the last.

We've had similar situations, never to the end yours went, that have caused 
all sorts of little things being added in our contracts.  Refund policies are 
prorated, payments are due at specific times, if they don't pay for equipment 
pickup, they sign for specific times for it's return, etc.  

After a couple close calls like yours, I started calling each venue for each 
wedding each week ahead of time.  Always talk to the person who will be in 
charge or doing the opening that day.  A commitment from the venue staff will 
work wonders for your scheduling.  You can put the squeeze on these people to 
be there, without ruffling the brides feathers.  

Many customers are extrememly unreliable about the details we worry about.  
We just have to find our own ways of being a step or two ahead of them.  

Glad you got out of court on a positive note, what with the order and all ! ! 
!   

Wynn 
Wynn and Lindy Bell, cba's
The Final Touch Balloon Decor
Portland, Or
503 579 9499
www.finaltouchballoons.com