Choosing the right vendors is one of the most important parts of wedding planning. From photographers to florists, these are the people who will bring your dream wedding to life. To help you make the best choices, here’s a list of essential questions to ask your wedding vendors before signing on the dotted line!
1. Questions for Your Venue
Your wedding venue sets the tone for the entire day, so it's important to know exactly what’s included in your booking.
- What dates are available in my preferred month?
- Availability can quickly narrow down your options, especially during peak wedding seasons.
- What is included in the rental fee?
- Some venues include tables, chairs, and linens, while others don’t. Be clear on what's included to avoid unexpected costs.
- Is there a backup plan for inclement weather?
- If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or reception, make sure there’s an indoor option or tent available.
- How many events do you host in a day?
- Knowing if there will be other events on the same day helps you gauge how much time you’ll have for setup and teardown.
2. Questions for Your Photographer and Videographer
Capturing the moments of your wedding is key, so you’ll want to ensure your photographer and videographer align with your vision.
- What’s your photography/videography style?
- Whether it’s candid, photojournalistic, or traditional, make sure their style fits with your vision.
- Can I see a full wedding album?
- While portfolios show the highlights, a full album or video reel reveals how they capture an entire day.
- What packages do you offer?
- Ask about the details of each package and the number of hours included, so you know what you’re getting.
- Will you have a second shooter?
- Having an additional photographer ensures more comprehensive coverage and allows multiple angles of key moments.
- When will we receive our photos/videos?
- Some couples wait months for their photos, so it’s important to know the timeframe.
3. Questions for Your Caterer
Your caterer will help create a memorable dining experience for your guests, so you’ll want to ask the right questions to ensure great food and service.
- What menu options do you offer?
- Discuss appetizers, main courses, and dessert options, and ask if they can customize the menu.
- Do you provide tasting sessions?
- Tastings give you a chance to preview the food before the big day and discuss any preferences.
- How do you handle dietary restrictions?
- Ensure they can accommodate common dietary needs like vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free options.
- What are your staff-to-guest ratios?
- The right number of staff ensures efficient service and that everyone is taken care of.
- Are there any additional fees?
- Some caterers charge extra for setup, teardown, or cake-cutting, so it’s best to know about these fees in advance.
4. Questions for Your Florist
Flowers are central to your wedding aesthetic, and a great florist will understand your vision while respecting your budget.
- Have you worked at my venue before?
- Florists familiar with your venue may know what works best in the space and can offer recommendations.
- What flowers are in season for my wedding date?
- Seasonal blooms are often more affordable and easier to source.
- Can you work with my budget?
- Discuss your floral budget upfront and ask if they can suggest affordable alternatives for more costly flowers.
- Will you handle setup and teardown?
- Confirm whether they handle installation, takedown, and any additional delivery fees.
- What happens to the flowers after the wedding?
- Some florists can donate or repurpose flowers; ask about your options if you’d like to avoid waste.
5. Questions for Your DJ or Band
Your DJ or band is responsible for the entertainment and setting the mood throughout the evening. Make sure they understand the vibe you’re going for.
- Have you performed at weddings before?
- Wedding experience matters—this ensures they can handle timelines, cues, and varied music requests.
- Do you take song requests?
- If you want guests to be able to request songs, make sure the DJ or band is comfortable doing so.
- Can we provide a “do-not-play” list?
- Avoid any unwanted tunes by letting them know your list of “must plays” and “do-not-plays.”
- How do you handle breaks?
- Bands, in particular, need breaks; ask if they’ll play recorded music during these times to keep the vibe going.
- Do you bring your own equipment?
- Verify if they bring their sound system, lighting, and backup gear to avoid unexpected rentals.
6. Questions for Your Planner or Coordinator
If you’re working with a wedding planner or coordinator, clear communication is essential to create a seamless event.
- What’s included in your planning services?
- Some planners offer full planning, while others provide day-of coordination. Make sure their services match your needs.
- How will you keep me updated throughout the planning process?
- Establish how often you’ll be in contact, whether it’s through emails, calls, or in-person meetings.
- Do you work with a preferred vendor list?
- Some planners have go-to vendors they trust, which can be beneficial for quality and pricing.
- Will you be on-site on my wedding day?
- Ensure your planner or coordinator will be present to handle any last-minute issues.
- How do you handle unforeseen issues?
- A seasoned planner should be able to give examples of how they’ve solved unexpected challenges in the past.
Final Tips for Vendor Meetings
- Be Prepared: Go into each meeting with a list of questions. Don’t be afraid to take notes and get everything in writing.
- Trust Your Gut: If you feel like a vendor doesn’t understand your vision or is hard to communicate with, it’s okay to keep looking.
- Ask About Contracts: Before you commit, make sure the terms are clear, including cancellation policies, deposit requirements, and any other important details.
With the right questions, you’ll feel confident choosing vendors who align with your vision and will bring your dream wedding to life. Happy planning!
