Your Wedding Vendor Checklist: Don’t Miss These (2023)
The phrase “if you fail to plan, you plan to fail” holds much weight when it comes to organizing a wedding celebration. Though, it is important to remember the most critical aspect of the wedding day is the union between you and your significant other.
To alleviate some of the anxiety that comes with wedding planning, we have curated a comprehensive list of essential wedding vendors. The selection of vendors can make or break the wedding; hence, choosing vendors with positive reviews and ones that align with your desired aesthetic is imperative.
Before beginning the selection process, it is advisable to have a clear vision of the ambiance and aesthetic you envision for your wedding. Furthermore, staying current with the latest wedding trends can also aid in determining which elements to incorporate into your ceremony.
Utilize this vendor checklist as a guide to bring your dream wedding to life!
Wedding Vendor Checklist: The Venue
As you embark on your wedding planning journey, the foremost decision to make is selecting the venue and the location where the most significant event of your life will take place. After all, you and your partner have envisioned this moment all your lives.
It’s essential to remember that the venue you choose will serve as the backdrop for all your wedding photographs, so it’s vital to ensure that you are head over heels in love with it.
Before you start browsing for venues, consider the following questions:
Is there a specific location that holds a special significance for you and your partner?
Is a destination wedding an option? Is it feasible for your guests from a budget and logistic standpoint?
Do you prefer a more rural or suburban setting?
In the era of experience, rooftop venues have become increasingly popular. Rooftop venues offer your guests a cool, cozy, and contemporary atmosphere. The Rooftop Lehi, for instance, boasts breathtaking views of the Utah mountains and valley and offers an ideal setting for a luxurious and unforgettable wedding experience.
Wedding Vendor Checklist: Photographer & Videographer
When it comes to wedding vendors, selecting a photography and videography team is of paramount importance. These vendors play a vital role in capturing the memories of your special day that you will cherish forever.
Regardless of the scale and theme of your wedding, you will want to ensure that your memories are captured beautifully and artistically.
Investing in top-notch photography and videography is well worth it, as these memories will be revisited and cherished for years to come. It’s essential to note that most photography and videography teams book up to 2 years in advance, so it’s recommended to secure your vendor early on in the planning process.
When considering a photography and videography team, here is a checklist to ponder:
Editing – Do you admire the editing style of the photographer?
Review Past Work – Ask to see an entire wedding gallery from the photographer (not just the highlighted social media posts) and ask yourself, “am I in love with the photographer’s past wedding shoots?”
Additional Fees – Does the photographer/videographer fit within your budget after travel and service fees?
This checklist will help you make the most informed decision to ensure your wedding day is captured beautifully.
Wedding Vendor Checklist: The Caterer
Selecting a caterer is the next key consideration as you progress through the planning process. When evaluating catering options, conduct thoughtful research and review customer feedback to find a vendor to impress your guests. Providing a memorable culinary experience is an excellent way to express gratitude to your guests for their presence and support!
Consider inquiring about their catering services if you and your partner have a favorite restaurant.
Before engaging with a caterer, it’s essential to decide on several key elements:
Style of Service – buffet or sit-down
Location – Indoor or outdoor
Amount – Choose the number of food options to offer your guests
When speaking with a caterer, be sure to ask the following questions?
Is the caterer available on your wedding day?
Does the caterer provide linens and silverware for the food?
What types of meal service do they offer?
Do they provide food tastings?
Has the caterer previously provided services at your chosen venue?
By keeping this advice in mind, you can create your final decision with the peace of mind that your guests will have an unforgettable culinary experience.
Wedding Vendor Checklist: The Baker
The cake is one of the most eye-catching elements of a wedding and can serve as a decorative piece throughout the reception. Choose a local baker with a cake portfolio that aligns with your desired aesthetic.
Follow this checklist when working with your wedding baker:
Tasting & Consultation – Most bakers offer cake tastings, which can be a fun and delicious date with your partner as you prepare for your big day. Remember, this is your day, so choose a cake and frosting flavor that you adore!
Delivery & Set-Up – Confirm the date and time for the cake delivery and set-up at your wedding venue.
Cake Cutting – Traditionally, the top tier of the cake is saved for the couple to enjoy after the wedding. Make sure to remind a family member or staff member to take care of this if it’s something you want to do.
Wedding Vendor Checklist: The Florist
One of the most magical aspects of a wedding is florals. From whimsical sweeping bouquets to romantic floral arrangements, the perfect florist can make your wedding dreams come to life. Choose a florist several months in advance to ensure you have plenty of time to design your desired floral layout.
Follow this checklist before and during speaking with your florist:
Set a Budget – Before meeting with the florist, establish a budget for your floral decorations. This will help you and your florist decide which flowers and designs are feasible for your wedding.
Decide on a Style – Decide on your floral style for your wedding. Talk to your florist about the colors and flowers that will complement your theme.
Review Venue Restrictions – Think about how the florals will fit with your venue of choice. Also, be sure to look over any venue restrictions for flower arrangements and set-up!
Timeline – Create a timeline of when you want the flowers to be delivered and set up on your wedding day. Coordinating this in advance will ensure the flowers are ready and in place on your special day.
