Choosing Your Wedding Dream Team
Your vendors make or break your wedding day. Beyond portfolio and price, selecting vendors who understand your vision and work well together creates magic. Here's how to build your perfect vendor team.
Research Phase
Start with venue's preferred vendor list. Check recent reviews on multiple platforms. Instagram shows recent real weddings. Ask recently married friends for honest feedback. Join local wedding Facebook groups. Wedding fairs offer face-to-face meetings.
Key Questions for All Vendors
How many weddings at our venue? What's included vs. additional costs? Backup plan if you're ill? Can we see full wedding examples? Who exactly will be there on day? What's your communication style?
Photographer/Videographer Selection
Style match more important than price. View full wedding galleries, not highlights. Meet in person to assess personality. Confirm editing timeline and delivery format. Check backup equipment and second shooter. Understand image rights and usage.
Band/DJ Evaluation
See them perform live if possible. Song list flexibility and request policy. Equipment quality and backup plans. MC capabilities and style. Volume control for venue restrictions. Setup/breakdown timing and needs.
Catering Considerations
Tasting essential before booking. Dietary restriction handling experience. Staff-to-guest ratio provided. Bar package options and flexibility. Children's meal quality and options. Vendor meal arrangements.
Florist Assessment
Seasonal flower knowledge crucial. Sustainability practices if important. Setup and breakdown included. Preservation options offered. Flexibility for last-minute changes. Rental items like vases included.
Red Flags to Avoid
Slow communication response times. Pushy sales tactics or pressure. No written contract offered. Negative reviews with defensive responses. Unwillingness to provide references. Significant deposits without protection.
Contract Essentials
Specific deliverables listed clearly. Timeline and deadline specifications. Cancellation and refund policies. Force majeure clauses included. Payment schedule reasonable. Liability insurance confirmed.
Vendor Success Story
"We chose vendors who felt like friends. Our photographer's calm energy, our band leader's organization, and our florist's creativity made the day perfect. The slightly higher cost for experienced professionals was worth every penny." - Niamh, 2023