Congratulations! You’ve said yes and now it’s time to start planning your wedding. With so many wedding photographers in Orlando, how do you go about choosing your wedding vendors? We’ve come up with an honest list of wedding expo tips. These are tips that you should keep in mind when you go to the next bridal show with your fiance.
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Wedding Expo Tips
Have a Budget in Mind
You want to be able to go to a wedding vendor showcase with an idea of what you can afford. Don’t be afraid to tell people what your budget is. Keep in mind, have some wiggle room. Have a range that you want to work within. I think this is the biggest of all wedding expo tips I can give. Most wedding vendors have a starting price point that they’re willing to share in order to give you an idea of what their services cost.
Come with a Venue Booked
There are going to be so many couples there looking for vendors to book on the spot. The last thing that you want to do is find a vendor you love and not be able to book them because your date isn’t solidified. Once your venue is booked, everything else will fall into place. You’ll be able to book your wedding planner, photographer, and other wedding vendors.
Something to keep in mind is that venues usually have booths at these shows as well. You’ll be able to see a lot of different venue styles and get a good feel for what might work versus not. When you do look at wedding venues, make sure that you have an idea what your guest count might be for your wedding.
Love Them? Book Them.
Marta and I have lost count how many times couples would come up to us with a wedding date and have been turned away. We book our calendar about 12-18 months in advance. If you find a wedding vendor that you love, book them. Don’t hesitate. Most wedding vendors have payment plans. When a wedding photographer quotes you a price for their services, remember that most of the time that’s not a one lump sum payment. See what options they have. Ask how much is required for a retainer and to block your wedding date on their calendar.
Bonus Bridal Show Tips
Do Research Ahead of Time
Sometimes, vendors will be listed at a Wedding Expo or Bridal Show website. If you know what you’re looking for, then see what’s on the list. See if you can look up reviews on those vendors. If you’re working with a wedding planner or professional coordinator, then ask them for their honest opinion on the vendor. They’ll help guide you as well.
Focus on a Specific Category
Go to a wedding vendor showcase with a plan in mind. Choose the wedding vendors that you want to focus on and only go to those vendors. It’s so easy to be overwhelmed on the day of the show. There are so many different types of vendors that are out there. Go in and look at specific vendors that you need. When you decide to go to a show, then decide to only look at photographers, DJs, and transportation. That way you aren’t overwhelmed by the sheer amount of vendors that are in these shows
Conclusion
Whether you go to a large expo or a small boutique, you want to be able to go to these events with a plan in mind. These are great opportunities to meet plenty of vendors and come up with a final decision on whether or not to book the vendor that you’re looking at. Take advantage of all sorts of deals and specials that vendors may or may not offer. The whole idea behind these wedding expo tips is to help you assemble a team of vendors to help make your wedding the best day ever.
