You said “yes!” and set the date.  Now what?

Now it’s time to design your team of wedding professionals. This can be an unbelievably daunting task with SO many styles and package options available (and let’s be honest, I’m not sure Pinterest really helps).

So from the perspective of a wedding pro, here are some tips to tuck in your pocket and help you find your dream team of wedding vendors!

First, explore. Decide on your style! What kind of wedding are you dreaming up? Vintage, fairytale, traditional, Hollywood glam, rustic… (be sure to scope out your fiancé’s ideas and expectations too).  This conceptualization time with help you both eliminate some options and make planning your wedding feel a bit more manageable amidst working, school, buying a home, moving etc.

After you settle on the overall concept of your wedding, your next step is to match your budget to your vision. Prioritizing your vendors is critical in your budgeting process. If photography and florals are the most important to you, go for the top-notch vendors in those areas and make peace with spending more on those aspects of your wedding.  Then find more budget-friendly companies or creative alternatives for the things that are lower on your list of importance. Fit your budget according to what matters to you.
Okay. What’s next?  Now it’s time for a good excuse to sit down at your favorite coffee shop and talk to friends. Ask the people you trust what vendors they have used and their thoughts on the services provided…

First and foremost, were they friendly?  And what kind of friendly? Like I’m genuinely interested in your story kind of friendly? Or I’m going to call and act like we’re best friends every day until you hire me friendly? Ya’ll know what I’m talking about, and that kind of thing might matter to you. Also, what was the quality of their work? Did they deliver what was promised? Did they go above and beyond your expectations? Ultimately, would you use them again?  The answers to these questions should help you narrow down your options even further. Now you’re getting somewhere!

Okay, side note…Even if you have a trusted recommendation, be sure to look the vendor up yourself, too. Your friend’s style and preferences might differ from your own, and access to online reviews and portfolios are right at your fingertips with sites like the theknot.com.

Through all of your planning, remember that wedding professionals are people, not just products. They play a huge role in making your engagement season and wedding day a delight (or drudgery!). Having some face-to-face time or at least a phone conversation with your prospective vendors is truly the best indication of who you want on your team and working hard to bring your vision to life.