A Piece of Cake Wedding Design

I am sorry that you were unhappy with the services provided, however a contract was read, reviewed, and signed by both of us It became obvious that you were never going to be satisfied with any suggestions I made or research I performed on your behalf, therefore I acted in accordance with our contract together, forfeiting any remaining money that you owed, and cancelled our agreement so that you might be able to move forward successfully From our signed contract (which I have attached for you): Promises/Warranties/Guarantees I have made no promises, warranties or guarantees as to the outcome of the services to be provided other than that I will use my best professional judgment and skills to assist you in planning your weddingIn addition, to the extent allowed by law, I disclaim any and all implied or assumed warranties you may have that might otherwise have been associated with this Agreement Changes/Cancellations You may cancel this agreement, in writing, for any reasonUpon termination, regardless of the party terminating the agreement, any funds exchanged or due up to that point will be considered final and permanent I know this is not the outcome you were seeking, however this was the legal agreement made, that you read, agreed to, and signed over two years agoBased on this contract, we have no further obligations, legal or otherwise, to each other

Weddings (especially the planning portion) are a very
emotional time for couplesIt's for tensions to run high and for
couples to feel like they’re out of control, whether they have a wedding
planner or notWith each wedding, I always do my best to listen closely
to
couples' requests and to provide them with the wedding they desire
Although I know the wedding industry, unfortunately I can only make
suggestions, as stated in my contract, and it is always up to the couple to
make the final decisionMany couples expect me to magically make all of their
wedding desires appear out of thin air on their timeline, at their desired
price point, but most of the time, planning instead takes time and effort to
find just the right fit
I sincerely apologize that this is the impression the bride got from this
companyI always make sure to document every conversation thoroughly, every
email, and even every suggestion made on either sideI would be happy to
address specific concerns with the bride and groom over the phone if desired,
but it sounds like there was a miscommunication along the way about what each
of our responsibilities were in this relationshipI did all I could to find
and negotiate the services the bride and groom desired, with the vendors they
selected along the way, but could not find an arrangement to which both the
vendor and the couple could agreeWe were never able to get past the initial
venue and caterer decisionTherefore, we were never able to get a contract
signed with either, although a contract at several appropriate locations was
offered
According to the contract signed by both myself and the parties involved (the
couple), either party was able to step away from the contract at any time, with
or without reasonI did this to give my couples comfort in not only my
services, but in the fact that they were not permanently tied to me and my
company if they desired to leaveBut this also provided the same freedom to
meWith months having passed, stresses running higher every day, and a couple
that was not happy with any suggestions made about prices and options (although
all of the venue and caterer decisions were theirs), and were not willing to
sign any contracts, I made the decision to step away and suggest that I was
obviously not the right fit for them and their wedding
I made sure to let them know this several times before I officially stepped
away with a formal email, but they insisted that we could make this work and
they would start making some decisionsMany times couples don't realize that I
am only able to offer advice and suggestions, but in the end, they are the ones
ultimately making final decisions, signing contracts and making payments, which
I outlined in my contractWithout their cooperation my hands are tiedIt was
best for both parties that we end our relationshipAnd, as also stated in the
contract, either party can walk away at any time, with or without reason, and
any further payments still due on the side of either party are finalNo
further money exchanges hands
Once again, I apologize for any misunderstandingsI made
the best decision I could at the time, one that I felt was most beneficial to
both of us

I am sorry that you were unhappy with the services provided, however a contract was read, reviewed, and signed by both of us.
It became obvious that you were never going to be satisfied with any suggestions I made or research I performed on your behalf, therefore I acted in accordance with our contract together, forfeiting any remaining money that you owed, and cancelled our agreement so that you might be able to move forward successfully.
From our signed contract (which I have attached for you):
Promises/Warranties/Guarantees
I have made no promises, warranties or guarantees as to the outcome of the services to be provided other than that I will use my best professional judgment and skills to assist you in planning your wedding. In addition, to the extent allowed by law, I disclaim any and all implied or assumed warranties you may have that might otherwise have been associated with this Agreement.
Changes/Cancellations
You may cancel this agreement, in writing, for any reason. Upon termination, regardless of the party terminating the agreement, any funds exchanged or due up to that point will be considered final and permanent.
I know this is not the outcome you were seeking, however this was the legal agreement made, that you read, agreed to, and signed over two years ago. Based on this contract, we have no further obligations, legal or otherwise, to each other.

Revdex.com:
I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and have determined that this proposed action would not resolve my complaint.  For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below.
The business is not offering to refund any of the money walked away with.  She is attempting to offer a defense for herself, the company, and our situation.  I have referenced numerous points she has brought to her defense with proof of the opposite:
Stated by Piece of Cake: Many couples expect me to magically make all of their wedding desires appear out of thin air on their timeline, at their desired price point, but most of the time, planning instead takes time and effort to find just the right fit.
What actually happened:  We came to her with a short timeline. She said she could make it happen. When she could not, we postponed the wedding date and did not argue that.  Initially, we had a budget and we offered her numerous areas that were not important to us/we were willing to compromise on.  There were only 3 areas we were more concerned about: Dress, venue, food.  That left over 50% of the wedding that we were open and happy to compromise on: invites, tuxes, music, favors, photography, and so on. [redacted] was the one that kept asking me in the initial call was what our "dream was".  I felt it was unrealistic but put my faith in her.
Stated by Piece of Cake: I always make sure to document every conversation thoroughly, every email, and even every suggestion made on either side. I would be happy to
address specific concerns with the bride and groom over the phone if desired, but it sounds like there was a communication along the way about what each of our responsibilities were in this relationship.
What actually happened: I kept all the emails as well. She often confused me with another bride, took credit for vendors I secured, and claimed she sent me info when she had not.  At the time that [redacted] walked away, we did attempt to go over all details with her via written email communication for the purpose of having a record. She would never take ownership of errors or comment when I presented her with evidence of where she has made mistakes (and while I felt we deserved at least a partial refund). 
Stated by Piece of Cake: I did all I could to find and negotiate the services the bride and groom desired, with the vendors they selected along the way, but could not find an arrangement to which both the vendor and the couple could agree. We were never able to get past the initial venue and caterer decision. Therefore, we were never able to get a contract
signed with either, although a contract at several appropriate locations was offered.
What Actually happened:  We liked a couple of the venues she offered, actually fell in love with one in particular and were devastated when she was unable to get a contract agreed to.  It had to to with the caterer.  As stated previously, we did end up going with one of the venues she offered. We did all the contract work ourselves after she walked away.  Providing a venue is the only reason while I feel she is entitled to a portion of the $2k she walked away with.  
Stated by Piece of Cake: According to the contract signed by both myself and the parties involved (the couple), either party was able to step away from the contract at any time, with
or without reason. I did this to give my couples comfort in not only my services, but in the fact that they were not permanently tied to me and my company if they desired to leave. But this also provided the same freedom to me.
What Actually happened:  We did sign this, this is true but I can't imagine had I also listened to her on paying 100% up front. She would have walked away with $3k instead of $2. This protects her only.  As the patron, we have the right to walk away. That is all we can do if services were not provided.  However, being stuck in the fact that $2k was already paid to Piece of Cake, we had to stick out what we could to try and make up the $2k spend.  The situation is one sided.  
Stated by Piece of Cake: With months having passed, stresses running higher every day, and a couple that was not happy with any suggestions made about prices and options (although all of the venue and caterer decisions were theirs), and were not willing to  sign any contracts, I made the decision to step away and suggest that I was obviously not the right fit for them and their wedding.
What actually happened:  Yes, we did not sign venue and caterer when we wanted to! We asked to sign a specific venue but she could not get the caterer worked out! I never even spoke to the caterer and then when I kept inquiring, [redacted] would not be clear on the issues with the caterer and would just suggest new venues, confusing us since we already selected one. 
Stated by Piece of Cake: I made sure to let them know this several times before I officially stepped away with a formal email, but they insisted that we could make this work and
they would start making some decisions.
What actually  happened: She never said anything about stepping away until the formal email.  I then did yes try and get her to stay and help because she had $2k of our small wedding budget.  I insisted after the formal email because we were stuck.
Stated by Piece of Cake: Many times couples don't realize that I am only able to offer advice and suggestions, but in the end, they are the ones ultimately making final decisions, signing contracts and making payments, which I outlined in my contract. Without their cooperation my hands are tied. It was best for both parties that we end our relationship. And, as also stated in the contract, either party can walk away at any time, with or without reason, and any further payments still due on the side of either party are final. No further money exchanges hands. 
Response: Yes, we realize we were to sign the contracts, which is why we kept asking for them! Yes when walking away, no more fees are due. But what about fees paid for work not done??? She did MAYBE 1/3rd of the work, IF that with all the headaches and still holds 2/3rds the contract money. 
Stated by Piece of Cake: I made the best decision I could at the time, one that I felt was most beneficial to both of us.Response: She made the best decision for herself. Not for us at all. She did not care about us, or the wedding. I have months and months of emails to back this up and am willing to provide. I have witness as well as my fiance was involved in the entire process. I have copied him here. 
Regards,
[redacted]

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and have determined that this proposed action would not resolve my complaint.  For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below.

The business is not offering to refund any of the money walked away with.  She is attempting to offer a defense for herself, the company, and our situation.  I have referenced numerous points she has brought to her defense with proof of the opposite:

Stated by Piece of Cake: Many couples expect me to magically make all of their wedding desires appear out of thin air on their timeline, at their desired price point, but most of the time, planning instead takes time and effort to find just the right fit.

What actually happened:  We came to her with a short timeline. She said she could make it happen. When she could not, we postponed the wedding date and did not argue that.  Initially, we had a budget and we offered her numerous areas that were not important to us/we were willing to compromise on.  There were only 3 areas we were more concerned about: Dress, venue, food.  That left over 50% of the wedding that we were open and happy to compromise on: invites, tuxes, music, favors, photography, and so on. [redacted] was the one that kept asking me in the initial call was what our "dream was".  I felt it was unrealistic but put my faith in her.

Stated by Piece of Cake: I always make sure to document every conversation thoroughly, every email, and even every suggestion made on either side. I would be happy to

address specific concerns with the bride and groom over the phone if desired, but it sounds like there was a communication along the way about what each of our responsibilities were in this relationship.

What actually happened: I kept all the emails as well. She often confused me with another bride, took credit for vendors I secured, and claimed she sent me info when she had not.  At the time that [redacted] walked away, we did attempt to go over all details with her via written email communication for the purpose of having a record. She would never take ownership of errors or comment when I presented her with evidence of where she has made mistakes (and while I felt we deserved at least a partial refund). 

Stated by Piece of Cake: I did all I could to find and negotiate the services the bride and groom desired, with the vendors they selected along the way, but could not find an arrangement to which both the vendor and the couple could agree. We were never able to get past the initial venue and caterer decision. Therefore, we were never able to get a contract

signed with either, although a contract at several appropriate locations was offered.

What Actually happened:  We liked a couple of the venues she offered, actually fell in love with one in particular and were devastated when she was unable to get a contract agreed to.  It had to to with the caterer.  As stated previously, we did end up going with one of the venues she offered. We did all the contract work ourselves after she walked away.  Providing a venue is the only reason while I feel she is entitled to a portion of the $2k she walked away with.  

Stated by Piece of Cake: According to the contract signed by both myself and the parties involved (the couple), either party was able to step away from the contract at any time, with

or without reason. I did this to give my couples comfort in not only my services, but in the fact that they were not permanently tied to me and my company if they desired to leave. But this also provided the same freedom to me.

What Actually happened:  We did sign this, this is true but I can't imagine had I also listened to her on paying 100% up front. She would have walked away with $3k instead of $2. This protects her only.  As the patron, we have the right to walk away. That is all we can do if services were not provided.  However, being stuck in the fact that $2k was already paid to Piece of Cake, we had to stick out what we could to try and make up the $2k spend.  The situation is one sided.  

Stated by Piece of Cake: With months having passed, stresses running higher every day, and a couple that was not happy with any suggestions made about prices and options (although all of the venue and caterer decisions were theirs), and were not willing to  sign any contracts, I made the decision to step away and suggest that I was obviously not the right fit for them and their wedding.

What actually happened:  Yes, we did not sign venue and caterer when we wanted to! We asked to sign a specific venue but she could not get the caterer worked out! I never even spoke to the caterer and then when I kept inquiring, [redacted] would not be clear on the issues with the caterer and would just suggest new venues, confusing us since we already selected one. 

Stated by Piece of Cake: I made sure to let them know this several times before I officially stepped away with a formal email, but they insisted that we could make this work and

they would start making some decisions.

What actually  happened: She never said anything about stepping away until the formal email.  I then did yes try and get her to stay and help because she had $2k of our small wedding budget.  I insisted after the formal email because we were stuck.

Stated by Piece of Cake: Many times couples don't realize that I am only able to offer advice and suggestions, but in the end, they are the ones ultimately making final decisions, signing contracts and making payments, which I outlined in my contract. Without their cooperation my hands are tied. It was best for both parties that we end our relationship. And, as also stated in the contract, either party can walk away at any time, with or without reason, and any further payments still due on the side of either party are final. No further money exchanges hands. 

Response: Yes, we realize we were to sign the contracts, which is why we kept asking for them! Yes when walking away, no more fees are due. But what about fees paid for work not done??? She did MAYBE 1/3rd of the work, IF that with all the headaches and still holds 2/3rds the contract money. 

Stated by Piece of Cake: I made the best decision I could at the time, one that I felt was most beneficial to both of us.Response: She made the best decision for herself. Not for us at all. She did not care about us, or the wedding. I have months and months of emails to back this up and am willing to provide. I have witness as well as my fiance was involved in the entire process. I have copied him here. 

Regards,

I am sorry that you were unhappy with the services provided, however a contract was read, reviewed, and signed by both of us.

It became obvious that you were never going to be satisfied with any suggestions I made or research I performed on your behalf, therefore I acted in accordance with our contract together, forfeiting any remaining money that you owed, and cancelled our agreement so that you might be able to move forward successfully.

From our signed contract (which I have attached for you):

Promises/Warranties/Guarantees

I have made no promises, warranties or guarantees as to the outcome of the services to be provided other than that I will use my best professional judgment and skills to assist you in planning your wedding. In addition, to the extent allowed by law, I disclaim any and all implied or assumed warranties you may have that might otherwise have been associated with this Agreement.

Changes/Cancellations

You may cancel this agreement, in writing, for any reason. Upon termination, regardless of the party terminating the agreement, any funds exchanged or due up to that point will be considered final and permanent.

I know this is not the outcome you were seeking, however this was the legal agreement made, that you read, agreed to, and signed over two years ago. Based on this contract, we have no further obligations, legal or otherwise, to each other.

Weddings (especially the planning portion) are a very

emotional time for couples. It's normal for tensions to run high and for

couples to feel like they’re out of control, whether they have a wedding

planner or not. With each wedding, I always do my best to listen closely...

to

couples' requests and to provide them with the wedding they desire.

Although I know the wedding industry, unfortunately I can only make

suggestions, as stated in my contract, and it is always up to the couple to

make the final decision. Many couples expect me to magically make all of their

wedding desires appear out of thin air on their timeline, at their desired

price point, but most of the time, planning instead takes time and effort to

find just the right fit.

I sincerely apologize that this is the impression the bride got from this

company. I always make sure to document every conversation thoroughly, every

email, and even every suggestion made on either side. I would be happy to

address specific concerns with the bride and groom over the phone if desired,

but it sounds like there was a miscommunication along the way about what each

of our responsibilities were in this relationship. I did all I could to find

and negotiate the services the bride and groom desired, with the vendors they

selected along the way, but could not find an arrangement to which both the

vendor and the couple could agree. We were never able to get past the initial

venue and caterer decision. Therefore, we were never able to get a contract

signed with either, although a contract at several appropriate locations was

offered.

According to the contract signed by both myself and the parties involved (the

couple), either party was able to step away from the contract at any time, with

or without reason. I did this to give my couples comfort in not only my

services, but in the fact that they were not permanently tied to me and my

company if they desired to leave. But this also provided the same freedom to

me. With months having passed, stresses running higher every day, and a couple

that was not happy with any suggestions made about prices and options (although

all of the venue and caterer decisions were theirs), and were not willing to

sign any contracts, I made the decision to step away and suggest that I was

obviously not the right fit for them and their wedding.

I made sure to let them know this several times before I officially stepped

away with a formal email, but they insisted that we could make this work and

they would start making some decisions. Many times couples don't realize that I

am only able to offer advice and suggestions, but in the end, they are the ones

ultimately making final decisions, signing contracts and making payments, which

I outlined in my contract. Without their cooperation my hands are tied. It was

best for both parties that we end our relationship. And, as also stated in the

contract, either party can walk away at any time, with or without reason, and

any further payments still due on the side of either party are final. No

further money exchanges hands.

Once again, I apologize for any misunderstandings. I made

the best decision I could at the time, one that I felt was most beneficial to

both of us.