Glenmar deposit - need help from Glenmar brides!

We were referred to John Harrison and asked to meet with him but were told we had to put down a 550 deposit before they would let us interview any of their photographers. We have some reservations about booking a studio without even meeting a photographer and it seems a bit strange -- does anyone know the reason for this or have this experience? And does anyone have any info on John?

Thanks for your help! You are totally helping me out!