When planning your wedding, every single detail really counts. At the end of the day the final outcome of the celebration really lies in the hands of the vendors you choose. A bride can have the most though out suggestions and plans – but if your vendors are not capable of carrying out those expressed ideas – they mean nothing.
We have come up with some of the greatest ways to find wedding vendors in your area. Remember that each suggestion in itself is not meant to stand alone. A Bride should really take advantage of all of the resources that exist in finding the right Florist, photographer, caterer etc.
1) Friends and Family: Your Friends and Family are an extremely valuable planning resource. They extend your reach of wedding knowledge more than you know. Each has attended, planned or been to a wedding more recently than you think. So even if they only have a few bits of information, it all adds up to more than you had before. They can provide you with numbers, names and references before ever having to speak with a vendor. Ask Ask Ask!
2) Wedding Websites: Many Wedding sites allow you to search by wedding location to find recommended vendors. Many offer pages of choices for you to sift through- some with pictures and websites to look at. Please keep in mind however that many of these spots are purchased ads. Therefore, while a great place to get vendor leads – make sure to do your own research. You can also find sites like adviseabride.com which allow brides to give honest reviews of vendors which they have used, visited with, or seen at another wedding which will give you honest (and not paid) reviews.
3) Wedding Discussion Boards and Blogs: The Internet has become an amazing place to look for wedding vendors. Many wedding websites have bridal Blogs and discussion boards that allow brides to chat about their experiences and share details about the vendors they have spoken to or used. Don’t be shy to ask questions!
4) Wedding Magazines: There are many Magazines now that are created for specific geographic locations. Many feature local weddings, therefore if you flip through and find centerpieces you really like for instance – look in the picture credits. You might find that the florist featured is around the block.
5) Wedding Reception Location: Your Wedding location should be the first thing that you choose when planning a wedding. This is probably your largest expense and will really set the tone for what you will have left to spend on the rest of your vendors. This will also allow you to use your location as a resource. Please ask your hotel, hall etc if they have a list of preferred vendors.
Most places will have this. These vendors all have established relationships with your chosen location which is very important. For example, a preferred photographer will be lighting prepared and know the best shots to take in a specific location. Please keep in mind however that this should only be one component of your choice. Often there can be other contributing factors (politics) as to why they have been added to this list. But all in all, this is a good list to have and use.
While the above suggestions help in the direction of finding vendors, it is once you actually sit down with each that you will really get a true opinion on them. Look at their pictures, hear demo tapes, and call references- remember no bride is ever bothered to speak about their wedding!
