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5 things to do before settling on a wedding vendor

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One of the most important aspects of wedding planning is making sure you have reliable vendor services.  Seriously, they can make or break your big day.

With a little bit of research and asking all the right questions, you can ensure that your celebration goes off without a hitch.

1. Do your research

You’d be surprised by just how much slips through the cracks if you don’t take the time to do your research.

Researching the types of services on offer, areas where vendors are based in relation to your wedding venue and potential hidden costs, are just some of the aspects that form the very foundation of your wedding planning.

Make a list of all the important types of businesses whose services you’d like to use and compile specific questions for each one. Narrow down your choices until you find the one ticks all the boxes.

2. Get quotes and don’t settle on the first supplier

There is nothing wrong with settling on the first supplier, but making comparisons are not only welcome, but also very helpful in that they assist you in deciding what it is that you don’t want.  

Whether it’s a flower vendor, photographer or caterer, get hold of price lists and quotes. Find out who is willing to negotiate and who is willing to cater beyond what most offer.

Sometimes it’s not necessarily about which vendor is the cheapest, but about which one will offer you leeway in terms of creativity and additional modification.

3.  Check out their portfolio

Any vendor who doesn’t have some form of portfolio online could either be brand new at this vendor thing or could possibly be a little suspect.  Testimonials are crucial.

A portfolio is, after all, one of the best ways to gauge the level of experience a vendor has built up over the years.

4.  Negotiating the rate

When do they expect payment? Is there a deposit involved beforehand? What are their policies on cancellations or returns? Does the price quote include travel expenses as well?

Make sure to be very thorough when it comes to asking questions regarding the price listings as different vendors have differently structured policies – so read the fine print.

5.   In the event of an emergency

Have a back-up plan. Before you book your vendors, find out more about the processes they follow in the event of things going wrong.

What do you do when your photographer is a no-show? Can the vendor help by sending a back up? And what occurs in the event of rainfall and you’re planning an outdoor wedding? Can the venue make alternative arrangements that won’t involve inconveniencing people too much?

These are the kind of questions you should keep in mind before you make your final decision regarding which vendor’s services you’ll be hiring. 

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