How to Select Your Wedding Vendors

You’ve set the date for your big day, and now it’s time to make some big decisions.  Who will shoot the photos?  How about the food for the reception?  Beverages are a big thing, too.  There are so many things to think about.  How do you know if you’re making the right decisions?

As usual, well-meaning relatives may recommend you save money and use Uncle Fred as your photographer, or Auntie May to cook the food.  It’s the thought that counts, right?  Before agreeing to any of these, you may want to ask yourself:  “Is it worth the risk?  Or should we hire professionals?”

Here are some things to think about:

• Photographer – Cameras are getting better and better in this digital age, but is Uncle Fred skilled in photography? Does he know what types of shots he should take?  Will he download the images onto his computer?  What if something happens and he loses them?  Your wedding day is one of the MOST IMPORTANT days of your lives.  Your photos will be a cherished keepsake full of beautiful memories of your special union.  They will be passed down for generation after generation to your children’s children.  Is it worth saving money to have unprofessional photos? Or would it be better to hire a professional photographer to ensure you have beautiful memories?
• Caterer – Auntie May is probably the best cook this side of the Mississippi. But, does she have the experience to calculate proper portions for the number of guests attending your wedding?  How about the tableware, glassware, silverware, napkins, etc… Will she enjoy doing this?  Her and your estimations, due to lack of experience, could be way off.  Food helps set the tone of the wedding, and menu variety, quality, and presentation all contribute to the memorable experience.  What’s one of the first questions we’re all asked after attending a wedding?  “How was the food?”  To avoid the embarrassment of facing a mob of cranky, hungry guests due to the possibility of a late meal or of running out of food, it may be wise to go with a professional.
• Beverages – Will you be serving alcoholic beverages? While you may think it cost effective to buy the alcohol for your reception, and bring it with you.  Be sure to check with your venue regarding the rules and extra fees.  What is the correct amount per person? Is there a per bottle corkage fee?  Who’s bringing the glassware?  Who will be pouring?  Do I need to pay staff to serve?

If all of this seems overwhelming, we suggest hiring a professional wedding planner.  After all, the idea is for you to enjoy your wedding day with as little stress as possible.  Wedding planners have worked with many bar tending services, and they know who is good and who is not.  They may also be able to get special pricing in some cases.   Their goal is to help you experience a once in a lifetime dream come true wedding.   So instead of worrying about food, drink and pictures, let the experts do their job.

We hope this has helped you in your decision-making process.  Do you have questions?  Please leave a comment and we will be sure to get back to you.

Photo source: flickr.com/Luke,Ma