Wedding 101

How to Prepare for Your Very First Vendor Meeting

Customize your own event checklist with due dates, personal reminders, and timelines for all your wedding to do’s.
Going to your first vendor meeting can be super stressful! Between not knowing what to expect and wanting to make sure you accurately convey your needs, there's undoubtedly a lot of pressure. While vendors are armed and ready to answer questions and lend a hand, it certainly helps to be prepared. So, here are eight tips to help you plan for your first vendor meeting.

Rustic and Whimsical California Wedding Photo by Julie Kay Kelly

1. Know your wedding date. Or, if you're meeting with a venue, have a few ideal dates in mind. You want to make sure that your vendor is available for your date and has the season in mind while planning time-sensitive details. 2. Know ballpark costs. It's important to at least have some idea of what this vendor or service costs. Do your research by checking prices listed online or ask your vendor to provide a quote before attending the meeting. 3. Plan to have someone attend with you. Chances are, you'll need them for moral support! It never hurts to have someone to bounce ideas off of – just make sure they're on the same page as you in terms of style. 4. Have a clear understanding of your needs. Make sure you have an idea of what you want before you meet. If it's a baker – do you want one cake, many cakes, cupcakes? For your florist – approximately how many bouquets, boutonnieres and centerpieces will you need? Having a better idea of what services you'll require from your vendor will help determine costs and contract. 5. Do your research on the vendor. Other than budget, does the vendor meet your requirements? Do they have a similar aesthetic to what you're looking for? Have they done a wedding at your venue? Make sure you get the scoop before committing. 6. Bring inspiration! Carry photos or be ready to articulate your wants. We recommend creating a Loverly bundle, a Pinterest board or saving images to your phone to show your vendor exactly what you're hoping for. 7. Pump up the confidence. Remember, this is your wedding! Make sure you're feeling confident, ready to ask the questions you need to and you're prepared to make sure you're getting all that you want on the big day. 8. Don't commit before you're ready. Just because you meet with the vendor doesn't mean you have to sign a contract. Just don't waste the vendor's time by meeting with them if you don't really think you'll use them on the big day.  
Alexia Conley
About The Author
Founder of Wiley Events.
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