Most couples often wonder why there is so much to do after the proposal. Could we just elope? go to court? not have a wedding? have a super simple wedding? some of my couples ask me. And granted, these are viable options but where is the fun in that? Lol, in all honesty, do whatever makes you happy but if you are going the wedding route then buckle up for the ride because there is nothing simple about weddings.
Lots of engaged couples have no idea about weddings/wedding planning except seeing pictures of other peoples. So to make their lives easier, they google ‘I am engaged, what do I do?’ And like magic google floods you with even more confusion; buy a book, how to make a checklist, and read about weddings. If you are anything like me and not a fan of time-wasting, you just want bullet points of things to do, and someone to tell you the next steps to take (Hire a planner, just saying).
Part of the checklist google gives is finding vendors! How do you even begin to do that?.
It’s important to know that no two vendors are the same so you need to make sure you ask (your planner) for help figuring out who you need and what their responsibilities are. A little tip I have is, categorize your vendors into A and B where Vendors on list A are absolutely necessary, (Venue, Officiant, Wedding Planner/Coordinator, Bridal Stylist, Photographer, DJ/MC, Florist/Decorator, Baker, Makeup Artist, Hairstylist, Hotel/Lodging, Transportation) and those on list B, even though they add a wow factor to your day, are optional (Videographer, Saxophonist, Violinist, Band, Photobooth, Caricatures, and Dancers), it’s all about
preferences and budget.
Just like the difference in their responsibilities, please don’t assume they all have the same pricing. Once you make a list of your vendors do some research, then be ready to pay them what they are worth. Fun fact is, vendors always come bearing gifts (contracts) because without them, there will be no service. Every vendor comes with their unique skills and as a team, we make your day spectacular. I tell all my couples, you need a vibrant, friendly, reliable, respectful and dedicated vendor team because everything will turn out perfect at the end of the day. Research your vendors, spend time talking to them and IF you are not ‘vibing’ with them, then maybe they shouldn’t be part of your dream team. And when you find the right ones TIP THEM, THANK THEM, RECOMMEND THEM and send a great REVIEW their way.
DISCLAIMER: It’s your day, your choice, this is just my ✌🏾cents from experience and being a boss planner :)
The Boss Planner