Working with Wedding Vendors

ensure the best experience

A successful wedding hinges greatly on the vendors you choose and the relationship you cultivate with those professionals. Here are some ways to ensure a vendor experience that keeps all parties happy and expectations fulfilled.

APPRECIATE THE PROS

For starters, appreciate and treat each vendor like a professional. Established vendors come with years of experience in their industry, plus the proven results that made you seek out their services in the first place. Respect their expertise and skill. Listen to them and trust that a good vendor will always have your best interest at heart. Remember that you get what you give, so it always pays to act like a professional yourself. At your initial meeting with a vendor, be on time and make a good first impression. Once hired, make payments in a timely manner. Stay on top of communication, but be reasonable with your expectations in how that vendor communicates back. They may have dozens of events to tackle before your big day, so understand that you can’t be the center of their universe.

HELP THEM HELP YOU

Before your initial meeting with a vendor, thoroughly read through their website, view their portfolio, and check out any testimonials so you have a full understanding of their offerings up front. Come to that meeting with ideas and a vision, or at least be prepared to explain what you don’t want.

Weddings & Special Events

Kelly Farm Events is a beautiful event space in St. Augustine. Green pastures, stunning sunsets, horses and live oak trees give the perfect backdrop for timeless wedding photos. Schedule a tour and experience the rustic charm that is Kelly Farm Events.

Photo Credit: Monarch Studios

Congratulations

HANNAH & COLE

DECEMBER 10, 2021 BECPHOTOGRAPHY

Congratulations

VICTORIA & ELI

APRIL 19, 2021 COMPLETE WEDDINGS AND EVENTS Even the best vendors aren’t mind readers, so help them help you.

KEEP CLEAR EXPECTATIONS

Before signing a contract, give it a very close read so everyone’s expectations are clear and agreed upon. Is there a service fee and is gratuity included? Don’t be afraid to politely ask for what you want, especially if it’s a matter of merging certain parts of a vendor’s available packages. For instance, a caterer might tack on an additional passed appetizer. It doesn’t hurt to ask nicely. In the meetings you have leading up to your wedding, be honest and upfront about any concerns or dislikes, so the vendor has a chance to make it right ahead of time.

DAY-OF BREAKS & MEALS

For any vendor putting in significant time at your wedding, breaks are required by law. It’s also good form to provide a meal for vendors working six or more hours. Talk with your caterer about vendor meals, as they might differ from your regular menu or come at a discounted rate. Set aside time and seated space for your vendors to eat, ideally when the rest of your guests are eating. The DJ or musicians might eat during cocktail hour, so they can keep the music and speeches flowing during dinner.

AFTER-WEDDING ETIQUETTE

For any vendor who doesn’t include gratuity in their fee, be sure to tip them. If you were especially impressed a particular vendor, leave them a thoughtful review on their social media pages. Also, send a physical thank-you card or email that they could reference as a testimonial in the future. This way, you will have built and maintained a positive relationship with your vendors, rooted in respect and admiration for the way their talents and services made your wedding an unforgettable experience.