It happened! The love of your life finally popped the question and now you have a fiance…. and a to-do list a mile long! Where do you start when it comes to wedding planning? What questions are you supposed to ask when talking to a photographer or caterer, and how much is this going to cost?!
Relax, take a deep breath and let’s dive into a few major questions you should be covering with each of your vendors:
1.How much are your packages and fees?
This is your first question. It can be awkward discussing finances, but you don’t want to waste your time talking to someone you can’t afford. Ask if they have any travel fees, tax or service charges on top of their package pricing. This way you both know if they are in your price range before starting a lengthy conversation.
2. Can you send me a link to your portfolio?
This is important when booking a photographer, videographer, hair & makeup artist, and bakery especially. You need to make sure their style fits your vision and that they can do what they say they can.
3. How will payments be broken down?
This will help you know when payment is due and how they expect to be paid so that there are no surprises. Most vendors will take a deposit to secure your date and require the rest at a later time.
4. Where are your reviews posted?
Be sure to see what past clients and other vendors have to say about this person & their work.
5. Will you have anyone assisting you?
You will need to know this to be sure and include their team in your vendor meal count if necessary, and you want to make sure they have enough hands to complete the job in the amount of time given. This is especially important when booking caterers, bartenders, hair & makeup artists and photographers depending on the size of your wedding.
6. What are our next steps to book with you?
If you’ve found that perfect match vendor who checks all of your boxes, ask them what you need to do to seal the deal. And PLEASE be sure to get a contract in writing of what services they are providing, how much it will cost, the date and the venue listed. This will ensure you’re both on the same page!
I know it can be intimidating when it comes to “speed dating” your vendors to make sure you have the dream team working on your big day, but be sure to really ask those hard questions and always rely on your wedding planner to help you navigate any difficult conversations! Once you find the right fit when it comes to your vendors, your day will run smoothly and you’re guaranteed to have a team that supports you and your new spouse on your big day!