Anymore, the first place many brides look for vendors is online. It is time efficient, helps you know what is out there and you can do it in your sweatpants, I get it! I would argue, though, that you are going to have much more of a connection and find better vendors for you when you meet and talk in person.

If you have been following along with the series, you know that I talk about vendor relationships often. Each contributor to your day should work together. Like any sports team or collective, everyone brings something original and important to the group. Building your dream team of talented vendors that uniquely suit your vision and personalities is no small feat. Behind the scenes, we all work together to make your day spectacular and we hope that you are just as excited to work with us as we are you. All of that said, that means that consults and communication are key in your selection process.

Consultations are an opportunity for you to get to know each other and understand everyone’s offerings. It is so hard from a vendor’s perspective to tie up the things they can do for you in a pretty little package. They are all so multi-faceted and have a lot of knowledge to impart to help you through your journey. Meeting at a consult allows your chosen team to really discover how they can best serve you, not just book you for a predetermined package.

First and foremost, I want to reiterate that just because a vendor is not the best fit for you and your fiancé, does not diminish their craft and talent. There are many of us in the industry in various disciplines. We all have our own unique perspective and personalities, just as you have your one of a kind love story and relationship. Here are a few general tips for what to look for in all of your vendors.

• You need to click on some level. You spend a good deal of time with your vendors, especially planners and photographers. If you don’t get along well, feel like you can collaborate and that you ‘get’ each other, then the odds are that someone else is better suited to fill that role for you.
• You need to be comfortable with their skill level and ideas. Ask them questions, even if they seem small. This helps build your relationship and trust, which is so important on your day. Knowing that they have the expertise to execute and deliver is something you need to be confident in. If you aren’t, that is not your best fit.
• Be prepared to answer their questions. They also will want to be sure you are a good fit for them. Know if you are comfortable sharing your story, what you are looking for and be honest with them. Both you and your dream team members need to be on board 100% to have the stellar results that you both strive for. Not finding that match is doing a disservice to both parties, because neither will be as happy with the results if both of you are not all in.

We will be going through some of the major points to ask each vendor over the next few months. If you have any specific questions, please be sure to send them to me. I’ll be partnering with some of my industry friends to advise on their craft, so you’ll be able to ask the professionals!

Have a wonderful day, Lovelies!

xoxo, Jenn