This is turning out the be the booking season for 2012! I am getting inquiries almost daily! Im sad to say that for a lot of them… I am already booked. So, I wanted to take some time today to talk about booking vendors on your wedding day!
First things first, do some research! Get some recommendations from friends, family or on Facebook! Once you have a few names for caterers, photographers, florists, etc… Take the time to really look at each one. Consider what you like, and dont like. Maybe that caterer doesnt seem to have enough options, or the photographer does a post process that doesnt feel right. Its okay! Everyone has their own unique taste, and its okay to not like something that your best friend did.
Pick 2-3 vendors that you might like to meet with. Sometimes, you just KNOW. A lot of my brides book me because they already know they want me to photograph their wedding! I love when that happens!! But, its okay if you need to meet with a couple different DJ’s/Bands to find the right fit. Also, dont forget to ask questions! If you looooove top 40 dance hits and hate mo-town, make sure to ask your DJ about that! More than likely, they will play a nice mix and you will get all ages on the dance floor!
Remember there are a lot of other brides booking vendors too. I am not saying this to put pressure on couples to book and book fast! I am only bringing it up because in the past two weeks I have had to turn away more than a few brides because I am already booked on their wedding day! It is so sad for me to write that response email! I hate it! If there are vendors out there that you absolutely want, email as soon as youre able. Sometimes you dont have a lot of time between getting engaged and saying I Do, so make sure you dont waste time if you have to have somebody! Photographers and venue’s tend to book 9 months to a year in advance, sometimes longer!
And, lastly, ask your vendors for help if they offer! We are all connected in this industry and we love working together! If you are having a hard time finding the perfect cinematographer, ask your photographer, florist, or wedding stylist! They have more than likely worked with one they liked, or know of one who is awesome! Trusting your vendors is key to enjoying your wedding day stress free, so ask them for help if you need it!
I hope this can help a newly engaged couple out there! Wedding planning is often times stressful, so I hope this can help guide you a bit!
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Awesome advice Lauryn!!!