How to Hire Wedding Vendors Who Gets You

As a bride or groom, you will be spending a lot of time with your wedding vendors - for better or worse! You will consult with them during the planning stage ahead of the event, and they will be an integral part of making your wedding day the best it can possibly be. It’s crucial that you like them and trust that they will be able to deliver the services you hired them for. Below are five questions we recommend asking yourself before signing the dotted line and moving forward with a vendor.

African American newlyweds smiling and embracing at their reception table in Texas The Amber Studio

1. Collaboration is Key

Question to ask yourself: Do I feel heard?

The wedding vendors you hire should care about the vision and ideas that you have for your wedding day. It’s important that you walk away knowing that what you want is understood and they are fully on the same page as you and your fiance. If you do not feel heard or validated, especially in your first meeting, this is a red flag to pay attention to.

A queer engaged couple in matching denim jackets embracing at a vineyard in Texas The Amber Studio

2. Core Values

Question to ask yourself: Are your values aligned?

Ahead of your first meeting with a vendor, you can request a copy of their core values. These values will provide you with insight into the principles that guide their business practices and give you an idea of what you can expect to experience from their services. Reviewing these values will also help you see if what’s important to them aligns with what’s most important to you.

3. The Creative Process Requires Trust

Question to ask yourself: Do you trust them?

You should be able to enjoy each moment of your wedding day and be fully present with your family and friends. The thought of micro-managing a vendor should not be something that even crosses your mind.

Read reviews of past clients who can attest to their services and ask to see a portfolio of past work. Don’t be shy about interviewing your vendors either. Come prepared with a list of questions and expectations about what you’re looking for. When expectations are vocalized, everyone will be happier in the long run.

Newlyweds walking back down the aisle while guests throw confetti in Texas The Amber Studio

4. Make A Connection

Question to ask yourself: Are you just a transaction?

Working with vendors who spend time getting to know you and what you’re all about will help them bring your unique style to your wedding day. You deserve to feel like your wedding is the most important event on their calendar. Your special requests, desires, and personality should not feel like a burden or outside their scope. You are more than a transaction, and you ought to feel that in every interaction.

A black brides smiling in a strapless wedding gown and a veil in Dallas TX The Amber Studio

5. Be Yourself

Question to ask yourself: Will they respect you?

You should feel comfortable enough to bring your true self to your vendor relationships without feeling judged or tokenized. Take note of how you are made to feel when interacting - are they active listeners who ask follow-up questions? Are they taking notes when speaking with you? Do you feel comfortable being yourself and sharing your opinion with them?