Our Dos and Don’ts of the Vendor Selection Process
We know that the vendor selection process can be tough! There’s so many options… and it’s hard to know where to even start.
Here’s our top Dos and Don’ts to keep in mind when inquiring with wedding vendors.
DO - Ask vendors who they recommend once you book them - these vendors have worked so many weddings and have the experience under their belt of who to work with and who not to work with.
For example, Fancy Fox Events has been in the wedding industry for about 5 years now and knows the best people in the area to work with. Actually… the first thing a booked client gets in their email from us is a full vendor list!
DON’T - Ghost vendors! When inquiring with multiple different vendors, it can be easy to just make your decision and forget about the others you had been in contact with.
However, for those you may not be interested in anymore - simply let them know, kindly, that you are no longer in need of their services.
DO - Read through your contracts!! You’ll want to make sure you’re aware of what the vendors may need or are asking of you.
Here are some things to keep in mind: do they need a hot vendor meal, is travel included, do you need to provide hotel accommodations, how many hours will they be on site, when are the payments due, etc.
DON’T - Just hire a vendor because your friend/sister/aunt’s third cousin once removed used them. While it can be good to listen to the opinions of those we love and are closest to, something that they liked or worked for them may not always pan out the same way for you.
This also goes for your friends that may have the good intention to help, but don’t necessarily have substantial wedding industry experience. Hiring a seasoned and professional vendor will ensure that you have a seamless wedding day.
DO - Start with hiring your planner and venue first. Try not to get overwhelmed by all of the vendors you have to book. Keep it simple by doing one or two at a time, and start with those of the highest priority, with your planner and venue usually being at the top of that list. Next would be your catering team and photographer, with your DJ, videographer, florist, and other vendors to follow.
** In our full planning packages, we will help you book one vendor at a time by hearing your wants and needs, inquiring for you, and then presenting it all in an excel sheet for YOU to make an informed decision on what vendors you want to have meetings with - and then we will be along your side to book them with you.
We totally understand that it may feel a little overwhelming at first when deciding on which vendors you want to have working your wedding. However, if you try to remember these dos and don’ts, you should be in good shape to start slimming down your list - and - especially with the help of a planner - make those choices 👍
