Ordering wedding products from UK suppliers: your rights

Weddings involve a lot of online orders: stationery, decorations, favours and party products. UK consumer law gives you clear rights when you buy from a UK business, and knowing where they stop saves disappointment.

The 14-day cancellation right

Under the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013, most goods bought online, by phone or by post can be cancelled within 14 days, without giving a reason. If a trader fails to tell you about this right, the cancellation period can be extended by up to 12 months.

Why personalised items are different

The cancellation right does not apply to goods made to your specification or clearly personalised, such as invitations printed with your names and date. That is why reputable stationers ask you to approve a proof before anything is printed: once you approve it, the item is made for you alone. Check every name, date and venue on the proof before approving.

Faulty goods: the Consumer Rights Act 2015

• Goods must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described. This applies to personalised items too.
• You have a short-term right to reject faulty goods for a full refund within 30 days.
• Within six months, a fault is presumed to have been there from the start unless the trader can show otherwise.

Paying by credit card: Section 75

Under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974, if you pay for an item costing more than £100 and up to £30,000 at least partly by credit card, the card provider is jointly liable with the seller if something goes wrong. The limit applies per item, not per basket. Debit cards are not covered by Section 75, though your bank may help through chargeback.

Why buying from a UK supplier helps

• UK consumer law applies directly, and disputes are simpler.
• Orders from outside the UK can attract import VAT, customs duty or handling fees on delivery, which may not be in the price you saw.
• Delivery times are shorter and more predictable, which matters when the date cannot move.

This is general information, not legal advice. For a specific problem, Citizens Advice can help.