Scams in Kenya are something you can’t ignore when hiring event vendors. You’ve probably heard stories of people paying for services, only for the vendor to disappear or deliver something completely different from what was promised. It’s frustrating, especially when you’re working with a tight budget and just want everything to go smoothly.
Of course, not all event vendors in Kenya are dishonest. Many are hardworking professionals who deliver amazing products and services. However, a few bad apples can ruin the experience if you’re not careful. That’s why knowing how to spot red flags before hiring an event vendor is so important.
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It’s not just about avoiding losses—it’s about getting value for your money. Whether you’re booking a caterer, decorator, or sound system provider, you deserve quality service without the stress. And the best part? You don’t need to be an expert to spot a scam.
In this guide, we’ll provide practical tips to help you book trusted vendors without fear. Your event should be memorable for all the right reasons, not because you fell for a scam.
How to Avoid Scams in Kenya when Hiring Event Vendors
1. Always Check Reviews Before Hiring an Event Vendor
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One of the easiest ways to avoid scams in Kenya when hiring an event vendor is by checking reviews. People who have had a bad experience will always speak up, especially online.
Therefore, start by searching the vendor’s name on Google and read the most recent reviews. If multiple people complain about the same issue (like poor service or no-show), that’s a red flag.
But don’t just stop at written reviews.
Check TikTok, Facebook, or even YouTube. Some Kenyans post videos exposing fake vendors, and watching these can save you from trouble. Plus, genuine event vendors in Kenya will have real clients tagging them in posts or leaving positive comments. If a vendor has no online presence at all, be careful—reliable businesses usually have some footprint.
2. Verify Their Location on Google Maps
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A common trick in scams in Kenya is vendors claiming to have a physical shop in town or far away, only for you to find out it doesn’t exist. Therefore, before paying anything, open Google Maps and search for their business address.
If their supposed shop is in an industrial area like Athi River or some hidden warehouse with no clear photos, chances are they’re not legit. Real event vendors in Kenya often have a visible location—maybe in places like Kamukunji for party supplies. A quick map check takes less than five minutes but can save you from losing money.
3. Ask for Recommendations from Friends & Family
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If you want to completely avoid the risk of scams in Kenya, skip online searches and ask people you trust. A friend, cousin, or coworker who recently planned an event can recommend a vendor in Nairobi they’ve used before.
Word-of-mouth referrals are safer because someone you know has already tested the service. Furthermore, when a vendor comes highly recommended, you save time since you don’t have to do deep background checks.
Just confirm details like pricing and availability, then book with confidence. Real event vendors in Kenya who rely on repeat clients won’t risk ruining their reputation by scamming you. So, if you’re unsure, start by asking around—it’s the oldest trick in the book, but it works!
4. Don’t Let Price Tempt You – If It’s Too Good, Think Twice!
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We all love a good bargain, but when it comes to hiring an event vendor, suspiciously low prices should make you cautious. Scams in Kenya often use cheap rates to lure people in—only to deliver poor quality or disappear with your money.
For example, if a flower vendor is charging half the price of others in Nairobi, ask yourself why. Additionally, take time to compare prices from different event vendors in Kenya. If most caterers charge Ksh. 500 per plate and someone offers Ksh. 100, that’s a red flag.
Real businesses have standard costs for labor, materials, and profit. Paying a fair price ensures quality service and reduces the risk of last-minute disappointments.
5. Visit the Vendor’s Shop Before Booking
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One of the best ways to avoid scams in Kenya is by physically visiting the vendor’s business. If they claim to have a shop in town, take a day to go there. A real event vendor in Kenya will have a workspace, samples of their work, and maybe even ongoing projects.
Moreover, seeing their setup helps you judge their professionalism. For instance, a baker with a clean kitchen and proper equipment in Nairobi is more trustworthy than someone who only communicates via Facebook and insist they have a huge space in Westlands. If they keep giving excuses like “the shop is closed today” or “we work from home,” be careful.
6. Never Pay Before Seeing the Products
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Many scams in Kenya happen because people pay upfront without proof of service. A genuine event vendor in Kenya will understand if you only pay a small deposit (like 20-30%) to secure your booking. The rest should be paid after you confirm the products or services.
But the best way to avoid scammers is to insist on seeing actual samples before paying. If it’s a cake, pay for a tasting session. If it’s decor, request to see previous work in person. Some scammers use stolen photos online, so don’t rely on pictures alone. By paying in stages and only after you’ve seen the goods, you reduce the risk of losing your hard-earned money to fraudsters.
Final Thoughts: Smart Planning Beats Scams Every Time!
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Planning an event should be fun, not stressful. By following these simple but powerful tips—checking reviews, verifying locations, asking for referrals, being smart about prices, visiting vendors, and avoiding full upfront payments—you’ll stay steps ahead of scams in Kenya.
Remember, genuine event vendors in Kenya want your business and will gladly prove their credibility. Don’t rush decisions; take your time to confirm every detail. Whether it’s a birthday, graduation, or small wedding at home, your celebration deserves real professionals, not con artists.
