When choosing your wedding vendors, it’s crucial to ask the right questions to ensure that they’re a good fit for your big day. Here are the 8 must ask questions when interviewing prospective wedding vendors.

1. How many weddings do you do per year? How much experience do you have?

This is an extremely important question. Ideally, your wedding professional should have ample experience specifically with weddings. Not only will they be more skilled in their craft, this also makes them a valuable source of information and ensures that your wedding day goes smoothly.

2. How much do you cost?

Price is often relative, especially when you factor in location, experience, reputation and expert skill. Generally, the most talented professionals have a higher price tag because they are worth it.

3. How much is the deposit?

Deposits typically range from 20%-50% although some vendors have a flat fee regardless of the package that is booked.

4. What specifically is included in that cost?

Because packages often vary, it’s likely that you won’t be able to compare one vendor exactly to the next without doing a little figuring. The lowest cost isn’t necessarily the best deal; some higher quotes include services that you have to pay extra for in other packages. Make sure you take this into account.

5. What happens if I cancel? What happens if you cancel?

Find out if your deposit is refundable under any conditions. Does the wedding professional have a back up plan if something happens to them?

6. Do you use a contract?

If the answer is No, RUN! A contract is designed to protect both you and the wedding professional. Don’t settle for a verbal agreement that won’t hold up in court.

7. Are there any additional fees?

Taxes, service charges and travel fees can add up quickly. Make sure you understand exactly what is included and if there are any other fees you’ll have to pay. This should be clearly defined in your contract and itemized on an invoice.

8. Do you carry liability insurance?

The answer you’re looking for here is YES. This protects you in case an unfortunate accident should occur on your wedding day. Any wedding vendor who takes their craft seriously will have liability insurance. Some venues have this as a requirement for all vendors to even step foot on property.

Any wedding vendor worth putting on your shortlist should be able to comfortably answer all of these questions with ease.

Hopefully this guide will help you choose your A Team for your wedding. Don’t settle for second best!

Learn more about THE MAGNOLIA WEST EXPERIENCE and how I can help you not only with your wedding photography but also guide you through the wedding vendor selection process.

Are you a bride planning your wedding?

If you answered YES, I would love to help! I pride myself in over-delivering in customer service (that includes helping you find your dream vendor team and anything else you might need.)