Dealing with Vendors

Manic Mondays by Jennifer Diehl

Vendors play a huge role in your wedding! The flowers, the music, the food, the make-up and more! Hiring the right team of vendors is critical to planning your dream wedding. One of the most stressful parts of your wedding can be choosing the right vendor for you, along with your wedding ideas and your budget, so we want to make sure that you’re prepared.

How do I go about choosing a vendor?

Do some research; it’s always good to go into your first meeting with some knowledge of the company. Look at vendor reviews; this is where you’ll really find the truth. Ask people that you know if they’ve heard of them or worked with them before. Be sure to ask questions, and get all the details in writing.

What do I do if my vendors bail last minute?

Don’t stress out, if you have a wedding planner they will have a back-up plan, so you won’t have to worry! If you didn’t go with a wedding planner, then one of your bridesmaids should step up and try and solve the problem! Running to the local florist or supermarket and buying as many flowers as possible, if your florist is M.I.A. (We at Private Receptions have dealt with this situation) If your photographer or videographer is a no-show find someone with a professional camera and appoint them to capture the action.

It’s your wedding, who’s in charge?

It’s important to find a vendor who you trust and who understands your vision for the wedding. While you should trust your professionals, don’t let your vendors take over, you make the final decisions. Listen to their suggestions, because they may have some good advice but don’t let them change your overall vision of your day.

How do I know what to tip my vendors?

In most cases tipping a vendor is optional, but is definitely recommended especially if the service was good! Here is a quick guide to tipping each vendor.

Your Wedding Planner- The average couple will tip their Wedding Planner up to $500 or a give them a very nice gift. Send them a picture from your honeymoon and a Thank you note as well!

Hair Stylist & Make-up Artist- It is expected that you tip 15-20 percent just as you would in a hair salon.

The Photographer & Videographer- They don’t always need a tip, but if their service was great $50-$200 is standard.

With any vendor, the most appreciated gift would be a testimonial letter complimenting their services.

Vendors come together to make your wedding day go beyond your expectations, so make sure you trust them and get along with them. And if you’ve hired a wedding planner, they’ll make sure you don’t have to stress about anything!

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