Choosing Your Wedding Vendors: Practical Tips and Creative Ideas
Your wedding vendors play a huge role in bringing your vision to life, whether you’re dreaming of an extravagant celebration or a low-key affair. From photographers to florists, the options can feel overwhelming—but with some careful planning and creativity, you can find the perfect team to make your day unforgettable.
Here’s how to navigate the world of wedding vendors with confidence and a touch of ingenuity.
Take Your Time and Get Recommendations
Before committing to any vendor, take the time to explore your options:
Ask for Quotes: Reach out to multiple vendors and compare prices and services. Don’t hesitate to ask for details about what’s included so you can make a fair comparison.
See Their Work: Whenever possible, review portfolios, attend showcases, or request examples of previous projects.
Talk to Friends: Personal recommendations are invaluable. If you have recently married friends, ask who they used and whether they’d recommend them.
The key is to avoid rushing. A vendor’s showcase might look amazing, but it’s essential to ensure their style and services align with your vision. And remember, it’s not just about price—sometimes the cheapest or most expensive option isn’t the best fit.
Prioritise Your Budget
Some wedding services are worth splurging on, while others offer room for savings if you’re willing to get creative. Here’s where to focus your spending:
Photographer: Your wedding photos will last a lifetime, at the end of the day is one of few tangible things you get to keep, so investing in a professional whose style you love is always worthwhile.
Evening Entertainment: A great band or DJ can create memories and keep the energy alive all night.
Catering: Great food leaves a lasting impression on your guests. Whether it’s a formal sit-down meal or a more relaxed buffet, investing in quality catering ensures everyone is well-fed and happy.
For other areas, a bit of DIY or outside-the-box thinking can go a long way.
Creative Budget Ideas
Your wedding doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some inventive ways to save money without sacrificing the magic:
Flowers: Your local supermarket can be a hidden gem for affordable, fresh flowers. Buying blooms the day before your wedding and arranging them yourself can save a fortune.
Catering: For a casual wedding, consider alternative catering options. For example, I’ve attended a wedding where the couple asked guests to pre-order takeaway, which was delivered to the venue at a set time. It was cost-effective, stress-free, and surprisingly fun!
Favours and Décor: Gather friends and family for a craft night to create favours or decorations. It’s a great way to personalise your wedding while making memories in the process. If you can get in to the venue the night before, ask friends to help you set up.
Cake: Who says you need a designer cake? A beautifully decorated Costco cake or a home-baked creation from a talented family member can be just as meaningful and delicious.
Hunt for Hidden Gems Online: Facebook Marketplace and local wedding buy-and-sell groups can be incredible resources for second-hand wedding treasures. From favours and seating plan frames to decorations and even your wedding dress. These platforms offer budget-friendly options without compromising on charm.
Checklist of Typical Wedding Vendors
To help you stay organised, here’s a list of typical vendors you might need to consider:
Photographer
Videographer
Florist
Caterer
Cake Designer
Band or DJ
Reception entertainment
Hair and Makeup Artist
Celebrant or Officiant
Transportation (e.g., vintage car, coach for guests)
Stationery (invitations, save-the-dates, place cards)
Suit hire
Wedding dress and bridesmaid dresses
Final Thoughts
Choosing your wedding vendors is all about finding the right balance between quality, budget, and personalisation. Take your time, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Whether you’re working with a full team of professionals or enlisting the help of family and friends, what matters most is that your vendors help bring your dream day to life.
Next up in this blog series, we’ll dive into making the most of your wedding day timeline to ensure everything runs smoothly. Stay tuned!
