How to Choose the Perfect Suppliers for Your Wedding as a Newly Engaged Couple

Andrew James
3 days ago
4 min read

Congratulations on your recent engagement! This is an exciting time filled with love, joy, and a lot of planning. As you begin your wedding journey, one of the most crucial tasks is selecting the right suppliers for your big day. With thousands of options available, this can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate the process and make informed decisions that will lead to a beautiful and memorable wedding.

Understanding Your Vision

Before diving into the sea of suppliers, it’s essential to have a clear vision of what you want for your wedding.

Start by discussing your ideas with your partner. Consider the theme, style, and overall atmosphere you wish to create. Are you picturing a luxury wedding venue, a classic church wedding, or a elopement? Establishing a shared vision is important, as it will guide your supplier selection and keep you both aligned throughout the planning phase.

For instance, if you want a vintage wedding, note down specific elements like lace tablecloths, retro centerpieces, or a classic car for the entrance. This will make it easier when communicating your vision to potential suppliers.

Setting a Budget

Once you have a vision in mind, establish a budget.

Weddings can be expensive, and understanding your financial limits will help you prioritise your spending.

Allocating specific amounts to each category will help you avoid overspending. It's wise to set aside about 10-15% of your budget for unexpected costs, as these often arise during the planning process.

Researching Suppliers

With your vision and budget in place, it’s time to start researching suppliers.

Begin by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or even your wedding venue. Online platforms and wedding directories, like Hitched and The I DO Trusted Supplier Network, can also be valuable resources. Look for reviews and testimonials to gauge the experiences of other couples.

Compile a list of at least five potential suppliers that fit your vision and budget. This list will serve as the foundation for your evaluation process.

Evaluating Potential Suppliers

Now that you have a list, it’s time to evaluate potential suppliers more closely.

Consider these essential factors to make an informed choice:

Experience: Determine the suppliers experience by simply asking how many weddings they've worked on and what equipment etc they use to ensure you're getting what you're paying for!
Portfolio: Review their previous work. For example, if you're interested in a specific floral arrangement style, see if they have examples of similar designs and if its a photographer ask to see a couple of REAL wedding albums.
Availability: Confirm that they are available on your chosen date.
Communication: Assess their responsiveness and warmth during initial interactions. A supplier who communicates well can lead to smoother planning.
Pricing: Request detailed quotes and compare them to your budget. Make sure you understand what is included in each quote to avoid hidden fees.

Taking the time to evaluate these factors will help narrow down your options.

Meeting with Suppliers

After shortlisting a few suppliers, it's time to meet with them. (Consider the time of year of your meeting, if its in 'Silly Season' a video call may have to suffice.)

Schedule consultations to discuss your vision, ask questions, and gauge their personality. Strong personal rapport can be a game changer, as you will be working closely together leading up to your wedding day.

Prepare questions for these meetings, such as:

What specific services are included in your package?
How do you handle unforeseen issues that may arise?
Can you provide references from past clients who had similar weddings?

These conversations can offer valuable insights into their professionalism and ability to fulfill your needs for your drem day.

Trusting Your Instincts

While research and evaluations are important, don't underestimate the power of your instincts.

If you feel a strong connection with a supplier or if they genuinely understand your needs, that’s a big plus. On the flip side, if something feels off or if you're not comfortable, remember it's okay to explore other options.

Your wedding day is a significant milestone, and you want to collaborate with suppliers who inspire confidence and excitement.

Communicating with Your Suppliers

Once you’ve secured your suppliers, keep lines of communication open.

Regularly check in with them as the wedding date approaches. Share updates or changes to your plans and don’t hesitate to ask questions.

A collaborative approach ensures that everyone is on the same page, contributing to a smooth wedding day.

Preparing for the Big Day

As your wedding day nears, it’s crucial to prepare for the event.

Create a detailed timeline that outlines when each supplier will arrive and what their responsibilities are. Share this timeline with your suppliers to keep everyone informed about their roles.

Consider appointing a point person for the wedding day, whether it's a wedding planner or a trusted friend. This person can coordinate with suppliers and tackle any last-minute issues that may arise.

Enjoying the Process

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but remember, it's also a time for celebration.

Take breaks from the planning to enjoy each other’s company and savor the excitement of your engagement. Focus on creating a day that tells your love story, keeping what truly matters at the forefront.

Wrapping It Up

Choosing the perfect suppliers for your wedding as a newly engaged couple can feel daunting. However, with careful planning and consideration, you can find the right fit for your special day.

Start by defining your vision and budget, research potential suppliers, and evaluate them on experience, portfolio, and communication. Trust your instincts, check references, and maintain open communication as you prepare for your wedding.

By following these steps, you will be well on your way to crafting a beautiful and memorable celebration that you and your guests will cherish for years to come. Happy planning!