When it comes to planning your wedding, selecting the right suppliers is absolutely crucial. From your florist to your DJ, and yes, even your makeup artist, a well-chosen supplier can make your day run smoothly. On the flip side, a poorly chosen one can turn it into a bit of a circus!
The Importance of Communication with Wedding Suppliers
Recently, I was at a beautiful wedding where things went a bit haywire due to a simple miscalculation. The makeup artist underestimated the time needed to doll up the bride and her bridesmaids. This hiccup set off a chain reaction that had everyone playing catch-up for the rest of the day. This story perfectly highlights why being attentive when selecting your suppliers is so important.
First things first, communication is key. When you’re meeting potential suppliers, ask all the questions – and I mean ALL the questions. Don’t be shy! Here’s a little list to get you started:
How long have you been in the industry?
How do you handle timing and scheduling on the day?
What’s your backup plan if something goes wrong?
Where can I see your full portfolio and testimonials?
Choosing Experienced vs. New Wedding Suppliers
Newbies to the industry can be fantastic – they’re often full of fresh ideas and heaps of enthusiasm - plus we all had to start somewhere. But they might also lack the experience to anticipate certain hiccups, like underestimating how long it takes to get five bridesmaids, the mother of the bride and a bride ready! If you do choose a newer supplier, make sure you double-check their timing estimates and maybe add a little buffer, just in case.
The Importance of a Detailed Wedding Day Schedule
It’s also super important to have a detailed discussion about the schedule. Sit down with your suppliers and go through the timeline of the day step-by-step. This way, everyone knows what’s happening when, and there are no surprises. For instance, if your makeup artist says they’ll need three hours but your schedule only allows for two, it’s better to know this upfront so you can make adjustments.
Always Have a Backup Plan for Wedding Day Mishaps
Always, ALWAYS have a plan B. Ask your suppliers what their backup plan is if something goes wrong. What if the makeup artist gets stuck in traffic? What if the DJ’s equipment decides to quit? A professional supplier will have contingency plans in place and this foresight can save your day from turning into a disaster.
Final Thoughts on Selecting Wedding Suppliers
Your wedding day is all about you and your partner celebrating your love. The last thing you want is unnecessary stress because of a supplier hiccup. By being attentive and asking the right questions ahead of time, you can ensure that your suppliers are up to the task and that your day runs smoothly.
Take a little extra time when choosing your suppliers. Trust your instincts, communicate clearly, and don’t be afraid to ask those nitty-gritty questions. Your future self (and your wedding photographer) will thank you!
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a flawless wedding day, filled with beautiful moments and cherished memories.
I also want to stress that I have worked with some of the most amazing suppliers in the industry! Getting to work alongside them on your wedding days is always a pleasure. If you'd like to dip in to my little black book of suppliers, get in touch with what you're looking for and I'll share my recommendations for you.
Happy planning.
Please note the wonderful suppliers that are pictured throughout the blog come HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by me! They are: