You’re in the middle of hiring all your vendors.
You love what they do, and you can’t wait to have them involved in your wedding!
But how can you make sure that what you’ve talked with them about actually happens?
Here’s what you need to ask each vendor to make sure you’ve got your day covered.
WHERE’S THE CONTRACT?
Whether this is an official contract, an emailed quote, or even screenshots from texts. Have something in writing that describes what is included, what is not included, and how it is going to be delivered.
I am not a lawyer, and I’m not here to give you legal advice. But from a purely logistical point of view, everyone needs to be in agreement on what is going to happen. Having something in writing that you can both refer back to, is incredibly important.
HOW DO I PAY YOU?
You’re going to need to know how much, when, and how to pay each vendor involved. I know talking about money is often uncomfortable, but believe me, it’s more uncomfortable when you realize it wasn’t what you were expecting after it’s too late.
WHAT’S THE TIMEFRAME?
When is this product or service going to be provided? What time does makeup start? How long for each person? When will the cake arrive? When do we need to be out of the venue? Everything has a timeframe, and you need to be on the same page so that you can make sure that everything lines up. You need makeup done before photos, and access to the venue before the cake can be set up. The list goes on. And on and on.
WHAT ARE YOUR NEEDS?
Usually this has to do with space. The caterer needs a certain size and number of buffet tables. The DJ needs access to power and wifi. The hair stylist needs a lot of plugins. The makeup artist needs table space near natural light. You get the idea. If they’re working through your reception, they’ll need to eat. Ask them each what space needs they have, and what needs to be in place so that they can do their job.
WHAT ABOUT CLEAN UP?
This one applies to some and not others. Obviously the venue will have rules around cleanup. But you’ll also need to know what happens to extra food, alcohol, dirty dishes, etc. As well as when the decorator and DJ are coming to take their equipment. How do you return rentals? Where are the gifts? Everything that went up, must come down. We often put a lot of thought into how things will get done, and forget about what will happen afterward.
If you ask each of your vendors these questions, your wedding will run so much smoother! Even if you’re having a friend or family member helping you out, you still need to be clear on these things.
Feeling overwhelmed? It’s a lot. Thankfully, you don’t have to do it if you don’t want to. A wedding planner or coordinator will be able to handle confirming all of these arrangements for you!
