YOUR DREAM WEDDING VENDORS:

How to hire the best team for you!

Congrats on your engagement! Now comes the exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) task of planning your wedding. One of the most crucial steps is assembling your dream vendor team - the talented professionals who will bring your vision to life and make your special day unforgettable.

This guide dives deep into everything you need to know about finding and hiring the perfect wedding vendors!

Social Media:

Utilize hashtags like #lloydminsterweddingphotographer to discover local vendors.

ONLINE REVIEWS:

Check platforms like Google Reviews and Facebook for vendors with consistent positive feedback.

WEDDING WEBSITES:

Explore www.canadianweddingphotographers.com or similar resources.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Recommendations from friends, family, or recently married couples are invaluable. They offer:

• Personal experience: Insights beyond a vendor's website.
• Similar style & budget: Recommendations from couples with similar weddings connect you with vendors who understand your aesthetic and budget.
• Vendor reliability: Positive recommendations speak volumes about professionalism and service delivery.



How to Get Recommendations:

• Talk to your network.
• Join local wedding groups online or on social media.
• Don't be shy - ask specific questions about what they loved about the vendor.

Remember: While recommendations are a great starting point, always do your own research before hiring.

Once you've identified potential vendors, reach out for consultations (usually free). These are a great way to get to know the vendor, discuss your vision, and see if they're a good fit for your style and personality.

Be the Wedding Planning Powerhouse!

Arrive prepared with a list of questions, including:

• Budget & services: Clearly state your budget and inquire about packages or services that align with it. Don't be afraid to ask for customized options.
• Wedding day timeline: Share a rough outline to help the vendor understand how their services would integrate into the flow of events.
• Specific needs & requests: Clearly articulate any dietary restrictions, unique centerpiece visions, etc.
• Logistics & backup plans: Ask about arrival timeline, setup process, and approach to handling unexpected situations.

Bonus Tip: Bring a physical or digital copy of your wedding inspiration board to visually communicate your desired aesthetic.

BROWSE THEIR PORTFOLIO:

Look at their website and social media to assess if their work aligns with your preferences.

Dive Deep into the Vendor's Creative World:

• Overall Style: Get a sense of the vendor's aesthetic fingerprint.
• Specific Examples: Look for examples that resonate with your vision (lighting styles, floral arrangements, etc.).
• Client Testimonials: Read these to gain insights into work ethic, professionalism, and client experience.
• Social Media Presence: Explore their social media profiles for a glimpse beyond curated portfolio pieces and to reveal their brand personality.

Remember: Don't skim the surface! Take time to delve into the details and see if the vendor's work consistently reflects your style.

Ask about their process:

Understand how they typically work, their communication style, and backup plans.

Unveiling the Magic: Understanding a Vendor's Workflow

• Workflow & Timeline: Inquire about their typical workflow for your specific service.
• Communication Style: How often and through what channels do they prefer to communicate?
• Collaboration & Client Input: Do they encourage client input or have a more pre-defined approach?
• Revision Process (photographers, videographers): How many revisions are included? What is their turnaround time?
• Backup Plans: What happens if their equipment malfunctions?
• 
  

By asking these questions, you'll gain valuable insight into the vendor's work style and professionalism to assess if they are a good fit for you.

After consultations, narrow down your choices. Here are some things to consider:



Experience:

• Seasoned Professionals: Experienced vendors bring a wealth of knowledge and have likely encountered various wedding day challenges.
• Rising Stars: Don't discount newer vendors! They often bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.

CHEMISTRY:

• Chemistry: This is your wedding, and you'll be spending a lot of time with these vendors! Make sure you feel comfortable and have a good connection with them.
• Chemistry: A Vibe Check for Success
• Communication Comfort: Did the consultations feel comfortable and engaging?
• Personality Match: Do you feel a sense of rapport? Their personality should complement yours for a collaborative and enjoyable experience.
• Trustworthy Demeanor: Does their interaction inspire trust and confidence?

Contract & Pricing:

Be sure to carefully review contracts before signing. Understand everything included in the package price and discuss any additional costs upfront.

• Understanding the Fine Print: By carefully considering these factors - experience, chemistry, and contract details - you'll be well on your way to selecting the dream team of vendors who will turn your wedding vision into a reality.