A Guide to Choosing Your Wedding Vendors

CHOOSING YOUR WEDDING VENDORS CAN BE A LOT OF WORK.

LET US HELP YOU OUT!

Even if you’ve just begun planning your wedding, you are likely aware of just how many options there are for wedding vendors. Whether you live in a major city or a smaller town or region, a quick online search has likely turned up many photographers, florists, caterers and other vendors who are more than happy to be a part of your big day. So, how do you choose the right ones for you?

Have no fear, we’re here to help! We put together this guide to help couples focus on finding the perfect vendors to bring their wedding day vision to life.

Make sure your wedding vendors fit your style

When finding wedding vendors, it’s important that what they do matches what you want for your wedding day. If you’re looking at a photographer, make sure your vision is in line with their style. If you’re looking at a planner, make sure they weddings they plan are similar to what you want for your wedding. You don’t want to hire a vendor and guess how it will go because they don’t typically “do” weddings like yours. Find vendors who will make you feel comfortable knowing how your wedding will come out because they have the experience and expertise.

Have a clear budget in place

Before you start talking to vendors, you should have a clear idea of how much you can spend on each one. Budgeting is definitely one of the not-so-fun aspects of wedding planning, but it’s essential to avoid overspending. Research the average cost of each vendor or service in your area and get an idea of what you need to spend on each one. This is also a good way to determine what vendors are most important to you and what items you may be able to do on your own or with the help of friends or family members.

Pay attention to the contract details

You’re likely very eager to start crossing items off your wedding planning to-do list, but don’t rush so quickly that you skim through the contracts of your vendors. Before signing anything, read it carefully with your partner and make sure you understand what you will receive as far as services, how much you will be expected to pay and whether there will be any additional costs. If you’re unsure about any details in the contract, ask the vendor to get clarification. You should know exactly what you’re getting before you sign and commit.

Book as soon as you know

It is common for wedding vendors to book up a year or more in advance. Dragging your feet can cost you your favorite vendors. Once you know that a vendor is right for you, snatch them up! Get your date booked on their calendar so that another couple can’t take it out from under you.

Do your own research

While it’s a great idea to get vendor recommendations from friends and family, be sure to research each vendor thoroughly before committing to them. Many couples make the mistake of trusting others’ opinions, and while a vendor may have been perfect for your friend’s wedding day, they may just not be a fit for you. This is your wedding, and you have to find the right vendors for your day. That’s why it’s so important to do your own research and talk to each vendor yourself before booking them.

Make sure you like your wedding vendors’ personalities

You will spend a lot of time communicating and working with your wedding vendors. Some of them will spend most of your wedding day with you. It’s so important that you actually like them as people. If their personality stresses you out, you may end up stressed on your wedding day unnecessarily. If they’re rude or short with people, your guests may not have the best experience. You can find out a lot about vendors and how they behave by reading their reviews. Reviews will help you get a great idea of what a vendor’s personality is like.

Trust your instincts

If there’s a photographer or caterer you absolutely love, talk to them as soon as possible and book them for your wedding day. Even if you have months or even over a year before your wedding, the sooner you can book, the better. You don’t want to regret not booking that vendor you’ve been dreaming of since you said yes. Choose wedding vendors who match your style and vision for your wedding day, as well as those you feel comfortable with and trust. That feeling of connection can go a long way toward making your day exactly what you want it to be.

If you’re a bride currently planning your Ohio wedding, you can find more resources here!