One of the questions I am often asked is “how do I deal with a wedding supplier?”.
For many people, this is a new experience. What do you need to ask them? How do you decide between two (or more)? How do you know you’ll get what you want, once you’ve chosen?
First Steps
A reliable step is to ask around for personal recommendations. If someone you trust can recommend a supplier, that is a great start. However, what suits one person may not suit another, so more homework is advisable.
A glance or two at the supplier’s website may be useful, especially the testimonials. Those will give you an idea of the supplier’s strengths and you can match those up to your requirements.
Initial Contact
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, phone or meet with the supplier. The questions you ask will depend, according to the product or service you are seeking, and according to your personal inclinations.
Questions
Things you definitely need to know are:
- Are they available on your date?
- How much they will charge (you may need to accept an estimate at this stage)
- What precisely is included? As a celebrant, I quote for everything, once I know what is required, and my Ts & Cs make clear any extras that might exceptionally be charged
- Terms & Conditions (especially, payment terms)
- Cancellation policy
Interview
Some questions will be tailored to the particular supplier. For instance, you may ask a florist about a seasonal display or a caterer whether they can offer vegan alternatives. If you’re hiring a dress, when do you need to return it, and what happens if it is dirtied? Will the planner attend in person, or will they send a deputy? Can the celebrant stay for photos, if required? What formal photographs (if any) will the photographer want to line up? Will the venue provide a sound system?
You may well have your vision for the ceremony or, indeed, whole day. Does the supplier listen to you when you explain it, or will they do only what they think fit? Do they inspire you with confidence and trust?
If they are a little pricey, but you like them, go for them. You may be able to cut back a little elsewhere to allow for this. If they seem pleasant and professional, that is a good combination.
Conclusion
So take your time, and do your due diligence. After all, you’re going to want to get your big day just right! If in doubt, go back to or call the supplier and clarify the situation. Make sure they understand what you want, and you should be able to book with confidence.
You can still reconfirm the week of the wedding, of course, but if you choose your suppliers carefully, there’ll be a lot less on your mind on the big day.
If you’re considering a personalised, unique ceremony, let’s have a chat.
Photo: aiony-haust-xCQm5_9aro0-unsplash