Weddings come together through the efforts of many talented individuals all focused on one goal: making your big day perfect. Choosing the right vendors can seem like a daunting task, but feeling confident in your decisions will help take some of the stress of planning off your shoulders. When choosing a wedding vendor, be sure to consider these 8 tips to help ensure that you’ll get the right people for the job:
Let their work do the talking
Always take a look at each vendor’s previous work before making a decision, no matter how good they sound. Anyone can tell you they have been a part of hundred of weddings, or boast about degrees or awards, but the important thing is what they can deliver. A photographer should be able to show you wedding photos, a caterer should offer you food samples, and a wedding planner should have a vast portfolio demonstrating their talents. If they can not show you some of their completed work, it may be time to walk away.
Ask about recommended vendors
Many wedding venues will have a list of vendors they commonly work with. For some specialties like florists and DJ’s, using a vendor that has experience at your location can make wedding planning easier. For example, a florist who commonly provides flowers for your venue will most likely already know the time they’ll need to set up before your event. Also, if you have a few vendors in mind already, feel free to ask the venue management if they have worked with any of them before. You may hear rave reviews or find out that a particular vendor is not as professional as they seem.
Ask to see something different
You may already have an idea of what you want at your wedding, but when looking at a vendor’s portfolio it is important to ask to see work that fits what you want for your wedding as well as something that is not your style. Take a moment to consider if this different style were something you liked, how you would feel about it? Would you be impressed? Seeing that a vendor can wow with any theme shows consistent quality and an ability to break the mold and deliver whatever their clients may want.
Remember your first impression
When you meet a wedding vendor for the first time, pay close attention to how they act and how they make you feel. Are they quick to answer questions? Do they have a professional appearance? Did they make you feel like their priority, or were they checking emails while you discussed your wedding? Having a vendor who truly cares about making your big day special will help ensure your event goes off without a hitch.
Find someone who listens to your story
Wedding planning is a team effort to create an event that is a reflection of you as a couple. The right vendors for you won’t just give you a generic wedding that looks nice but doesn’t suit you, they will show your guests small pieces of your story together. Ask yourself why each piece of your wedding is there and if it is a reflection of you as a couple.
Be sure they understand your budget
The cost of a wedding can be practically anything, from a few hundred dollars to hundreds of thousands. Discuss your budget with potential vendors and be sure to hire ones that understand your vision. Budget should not be your only consideration when choosing your vendors, but it should definitely be a considering factor. A good vendor should be able to offer suggestions about budget-friendly alternatives to some of your ideas, such as suggesting a flower that is in-season and less pricey than the out of season flower you may have had in mind. Also prioritize the amount you spend on each vendor according to the importance of the service to you.
Ask real clients
Once you have an idea of what vendors you want to use, ask to speak to a few of their recent clients or if they have been reviewed on independent websites. If they do not want to share client contact information, find out if they have any cards or letters from clients that were sent after the wedding. Many exceptional vendors will receive thank you notes from couples who felt that the vendor went above and beyond the the couple’ expectations and their special day. Do a quick search of the vendors name online to see if past clients have shared their experience working with them.
Don’t be afraid to say no
If you feel uncomfortable telling your vendor you don’t like an idea, then they shouldn’t be a part of your wedding. Your input is important and a polite comment that something is not what you want should be accepted by any professional. If a vendor isn’t hearing your needs, or continues to push ideas that you have passed on it may be time to walk away. Your Los Angeles wedding vendors should be willing to work with you on creating your vision of your special day.
