Your suppliers shape your wedding day more than almost anything else. The right photographer captures moments you will look at for decades. The right caterer makes your guests rave. Getting the right people on board starts with knowing what to look for.
What order to book suppliers
After your venue is booked, prioritise suppliers in roughly this order. The ones that book up fastest come first:
- Photographer and videographer
- Caterer (if not included with venue)
- Band, DJ, or entertainment
- Florist
- Celebrant or registrar
- Hair and makeup
- Cake maker
- Stationery designer
- Transport
Where to find good suppliers
- Ask your venue for their recommended list
- Ask recently married friends for honest recommendations
- Check supplier directories and wedding fairs
- Look at real wedding features for suppliers who match your style
Questions to ask every supplier
Regardless of the type of supplier, these questions help you compare fairly:
- Are you available on our date?
- What is included in your quoted price?
- What is the deposit and payment schedule?
- Have you worked at our venue before?
- What happens if you are ill or unavailable on the day?
- Can we see a full wedding or event you have done recently?
- Do you have public liability insurance?
- What do you need from us and by when?
Comparing quotes
Price is important but it is not everything. When comparing suppliers, look at what is included. A photographer who charges more but includes an engagement shoot, a second shooter, and an album may be better value than a cheaper option with extras on top.
Red flags to watch for
- No contract or vague terms
- Pressure to book immediately
- No recent reviews or portfolio examples
- Unclear about what happens if they cancel
- Reluctant to answer questions directly
Keep everything in one place
Once you start booking, you will have contracts, quotes, email threads, and payment dates across multiple suppliers. Our guide on supplier management covers how to stay on top of it all without losing track.
Wedli keeps all your supplier details, contracts, payment schedules, and contact information in one shared hub so nothing slips through the cracks.
Get started at app.wedli.co.uk