Our Scoring Methodology
No mystery numbers. Every score you see on CrystalSite comes from a transparent 10-point framework — and we explain exactly how it works.
The 10 Dimensions We Measure
Every vendor and product is evaluated across 10 weighted dimensions. The total score (out of 10) reflects real-world performance, not marketing claims.
| Dimension | Weight | What We Measure |
|---|---|---|
| Inclusivity Verification | 15% | Documented LGBTQ+ wedding experience, inclusive language, staff training. |
| Reliability & Punctuality | 15% | On-time delivery, contract compliance, response speed. |
| Quality of Work | 15% | Real portfolio review, not Instagram highlights. |
| Transparency | 10% | Clear pricing, no hidden fees, honest communication. |
| Value for Money | 15% | Does the quality justify the price? |
| Flexibility | 5% | Willingness to adapt to non-traditional ceremony structures. |
| Communication | 10% | Clarity, responsiveness, and professionalism in all interactions. |
| Client Satisfaction | 10% | Real client feedback, especially from LGBTQ+ couples. |
| Professionalism | 3% | Contracts, insurance, and business practices. |
| Overall Experience | 2% | Our holistic assessment after full evaluation. |
Testing conditions disclosure: All vendors are evaluated through a combination of document review, interviews, reference checks, and — where possible — real wedding observation. We never accept payment for placement in our directory. Our testing process is documented for every scored vendor, and we update scores at least every 6 months.
Score Interpretation
Here's what each score range means for you:
- 9.0 – 10 — Outstanding. Best in class, wholehearted recommendation.
- 8.0 – 8.9 — Excellent. Minor trade-offs, still highly recommended.
- 7.0 – 7.9 — Good. Solid choice for specific couples or budgets.
- 6.0 – 6.9 — Fair. Only recommended with caveats.
- Below 6.0 — Not recommended. Fails to meet our basic standards.
Conflict of interest statement: CrystalSite earns a commission when you purchase through our affiliate links. This never influences our scores. Products and vendors that don't pass our testing standards are simply not recommended — regardless of commission potential. We've turned down thousands in potential commissions by being honest about what not to buy.
Score Updates
Vendor scores are reviewed every 6 months. If we discover a vendor's quality has declined, we update their score immediately — even if we previously recommended them. Our commitment is to accuracy, not loyalty to past recommendations.