Choosing a Relationship over a Vendor
It’s happening! You are planning your wedding. You’ve seen movies and talked to friends about it all so you think you’ve got a handle on it right? For some that’s what happens but for the many rest of us we get overwhelmed. All the little small things pile up and the little details become forgotten until it’s too late.
It’s going to be then that you realize how important it is to work with a real professional who understands you. Great friends and family who help out are amazing but I’m talking about the creatives and vendors that you have put your trust in to make sure your day goes as smoothly and as beautifully as possible. They know what you expect and know how to treat you! I’ve had so many DIY brides who put it all on their plate because they were too nervous about giving the responsibility to anyone else. They are superwomen but I saw how much stress it caused them. When you have control of everything on your day no one else has anyone to ask questions to besides you. So when getting ready, you have countless people texting and calling on you to make sure everything is perfect.
From doing so many weddings the absolute best advice is to put your trust in a relationship instead of a vendor. Someone who you know will not put you in a “one package fits all” category. Someone who just thinks of your wedding day as another pay day. Someone who will work with you (or planner) leading up to your day so no more questions are needed to be asked when your 20 minutes away from going down the isle.
So, we’ve seen the movie where they bride is pulling her hair out because she can’t get a hold of a vendor who was supposed to be there 2 hours ago right? Or the friend you went to a wedding for and everything seemed great until you spoke to her weeks later hearing about how stressed she was because of someone she hired? I’m right there with ya, and you deserve much more.
“How can I ensure I get the right vendor for me?” First ask yourself what do you want from this relationship? Make a list and then start doing some research. Ask friends and family if you knew any of them had a photographer experience lately and would recommend them. Sometimes it’s not so easy but there are plenty of places around you that are willing to meet. Check out their sites and if you love what you see then make sure to set up a meeting. Not just email or phone tag but a real meeting either through Skype or a local coffee shop. Vendors packages may look the same but no two vendors are alike.
Once you meet with them, make sure to trust your feelings. If something feels off then why take a chance? You want someone who fits you and your style. Not someone that you have to cater to because you’re just not sure. Trust in your gut and remember your vendors only perform for a day (except creatives) but it’s a very important day.
