The Best Tips for Choosing Your Wedding Vendors
When you are planning the most important day of your life, there is no room for error. Hiring the right vendors is the single most essential decision you will make. At this point, your may have done some preliminary research on various wedding website platforms such as The Knot and Wedding Wire , and perhaps you’ve even subscribed to several Facebook Groups in your area. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the sea of choices out there, it is very common to feel this way. With hundreds of wedding professionals in your area, how exactly will you know the difference between a mediocre vs. exceptional wedding vendor? Here are a few tips to consider:
Start with Identifying Your Event Goals
Before your make the first phone call to any vendor, schedule a conversation between you, your significant other, or co-host of the event. Consider what is important to you, what is non-negotiable and what is optional. In addition, I would also encourage you to create a list and number them in order of importance. For example, if getting married in a breathtaking venue is most important, write #1 next to it. If the wedding cake is just not than important, place this on the lower level of this list.
In addition to identifying your event goals, get crystal clear on your wedding budget. What is the “all-in” amount that you are willing to spend? After agreeing upon a number, allocate funds towards each line item of your wish-list and 5% towards a contingency fund, also known as the “just-in-case” fund.
Do Your Research
In an industry where 50% of professionals are absolutely spectacular and 50% are simply mediocre, it is essential that you research vendors from trusted sources only. The best ways to find the perfect vendors include asking for a referral from your wedding planner, venue, or any other vendor that you’ve booked and absolutely love. It is true that great people know great people, especially if you value professionalism. This referral strategy is excellent especially when you are planning your wedding or event in a destination that you re unfamiliar with .
Schedule a Meeting Before Booking
Planning the perfect celebration can take up to 2 years to plan, which is why chemistry is key. Finding the right vendor is a lot like dating. No matter how talented, passionate, or knowledgeable a vendor is, if there isn’t a certain chemistry between the both of you, they may not be the right vendor for you. In addition to being an expert of their field, the perfect vendor with understand your vision and will be able to execute. Ask yourself. Did this person understand your vision? Did you feel heard and understood? Are they within your budget? Are they willing to compromise?
Although not necessary, it is a plus if a vendor has worked with the wedding destination or venue. If they have not, find out if they have executed events in similar destinations. For example, if you are planning a wedding in Cancun, Mexico, your vendor may not have experience working is that specific location, but he or she may execute several weddings a year in tropical climates, so they are familiar with destination procedures required to successfully execute your event.
Ask for References
A professional vendor will have no problem sharing references with you. While online reviews and testimonial are valuable, it is also helpful to have a conversation with one of their former clients. In addition, if you are able to see a vendor perform live in action, such as a wedding band, seize the opportunity! This way, you’ll know exactly what to expect for your special day.