WEDDING HINTS & TIPS | SIX TIPS FOR PICKING YOUR WEDDING SUPPLIERS
There are so many options when it comes to planning a wedding, and it can feel a bit overwhelming — especially if it’s your first time organising something on this scale. Every supplier is different, even if they work within the same part of the wedding industry.
Take wedding photography, for example. There are as many photography styles as there are days in the month — from light and airy to dark and moody, traditional to documentary. On top of that, each photographer offers different coverage options, packages, and ways of working, which can make it feel like a bit of a minefield trying to compare them all.
STEP ONE – MAKE A LIST
Start by writing down a list of all the suppliers you’ll need for your wedding day — from your wedding photographer and dress boutique to cake makers, hair stylists, bands, florists and more.
Next to each supplier, jot down your ideal budget. Try to invest more into the parts of the wedding that matter most to you — and remember, you get what you pay for. Your wedding day isn’t the time to take a gamble on a “too good to be true” deal.
STEP TWO – DO SOME RESEARCH
Most couples find their wedding suppliers through a mix of:
Google searches
Recommendations from friends and family
Wedding directories and blogs
Magazines
Instagram and social media
There are a lot of options out there — so take your time. The research you do now will save you stress later. And the more suppliers you look at, the clearer your preferences will become.
STEP THREE – REACHING OUT
Once you’ve narrowed things down, it’s time to start sending some enquiry emails or filling in contact forms.
These first interactions matter. If it takes someone 5+ days to reply and they haven’t explained why — it may be a red flag. It doesn’t have to be instant, but prompt communication is a good sign that they take their work seriously.
When contacting a supplier, try to include some key details:
Your names
Wedding date
Wedding venue
A little bit about your plans
The more info you give up front, the more helpful and tailored their reply can be.
STEP FOUR – ARRANGE A CHAT
Once you’ve had replies, try to book a chat — whether it’s a Zoom call, phone call, or in-person meet-up.
Personally, I love a Zoom call for the first chat. It’s quick, easy, and means no one has to travel. I even have an online calendar where couples can book in a time that suits them best — no back-and-forth.
The initial call should be relaxed and pressure-free. It’s a chance to ask questions, get to know each other, and see if it feels like a good fit. Every supplier will handle this chat differently, but don’t be afraid to ask questions. Make a list in advance and tick them off as you go.
STEP FIVE – DID YOU GET “THE FIZZ”?
Some suppliers — like a chair cover company — might just be a case of ticking a box. They’re there to do a job, and if they fit your budget and availability, great.
But for others — your photographer, videographer, planner, or celebrant — you want to feel a connection. I call it “The Fizz”. It’s that little spark of excitement that says, yep, this person just gets us. You can imagine them being a natural fit with your wedding day.
If someone gives you The Fizz? Move on to step six.
If not? Keep looking — the right one is out there.
STEP SIX – GET THEM BOOKED!
There’s nothing better as a wedding supplier than getting that “We’d love to book you!” email.
Once you’ve decided, confirm your booking and get the paperwork sorted. Every supplier should provide:
A clear contract
Details of what’s included
Booking fee / deposit terms
Final balance due date
For my couples, I send a booking form first, followed by a straightforward contract and payment link. It’s all laid out clearly — because there’s already enough to think about when planning a wedding.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Hopefully, these suggestions have been helpful! I’m not saying everything I’ve written is gospel — every wedding is different, and so is every couple.
But I genuinely want you to have an amazing experience planning your wedding, with the right suppliers by your side and as little stress as possible. If this advice helps you feel more confident and organised, then I’ve done my job.
You’ve got this!
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