Kickbacks to Wedding Planners?

[haring]

I have had some experience when wedding planners expressed their desire to receive kickbacks from me, the wedding photographer. I am kind of hesitant to give kickbacks because brides should hire me based of my wedding photos rather than on how well I "bribe" wedding planners.

(I refer to kickbacks, or commissions as they are more commonly referred to,which are often paid by the vendor to the planner for the "privilege" of getting to work with them. Most often, the vendor will pay it because it essentially guarantees that the planner will continually refer them and send future business their way. )

What is your experience? I find it a little bit unethical. Have you ever given kickbacks to wedding planners? How do you deal with these situations?

Thanks!

[kayumangi]

If you don't feel like giving a "kickback" then don't. We want our work to speak for itself but times are tough and the wedding industry is very cut throat top that with every MWAC and GWAC out there =)

Personally I have no issue giving a referral fee to someone who refers work to me. It's padded into my cost so I have no issue with it. It's much like using a credit card, you have to pay to play and no one is forcing anyone to use them.