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You've got the ring. You've set a date.
What's next? You'll need to hire a platoon of vendors to make your wedding
dreams come true.
FIRST OF ALL
Get referrals from wedding consultants and recent
brides -- friends, coworkers, neighbors, even the newlywed in your boxing
class. Based on those referrals, schedule interviews and prepare a list of
questions. Be an informed, discerning customer, not someone who's grateful
to sign on the dotted line. Remember that you're in charge -- the vendors
you hire work for you.
BAND
The music sets the mood for the wedding. This
should be your first booking -- right after you've set the date and chosen a
location. The type of musicians you hire -- a ten-piece orchestra, a rock
band, a jazz ensemble -- will depend on your personal style, taste, and
reception venue. Listen to a demo tape and drop by some live gigs if
possible. For the ceremony, don't settle for traditional selections if you'd
rather explore other options. If you want harp instead of organ, Pachelbel
instead of Wagner, Aerosmith instead of Ave Maria, go for it. The ceremony
is as much a reflection of you as the reception.
DISC JOCKEY
Do you want a mellow, smooth-groovin' DJ or a
flashy, high-energy tune-spinner? Don't hire a DJ sight unseen. Make sure
you meet with professionals in person so you get to know their personalities
-- some might even have videos that show off their talent as an MC in
action. Be sure to make a point of calling past clients to ask specific
questions about the DJ's style. For example, "How did XYZ DJ interact with
your guests?" And as a follow up: "Was that what you requested?" Styles
vary, so make sure it's the right person for your reception. And,
you'll want to have input into the playlist (jukebox heaven) -- it's not
your DJ's wedding, after all!
PHOTOGRAPHER
Who will capture your wedding on film? The studio
owner, whose portfolio is so dazzling you want to book him on the spot? Or a
staff photographer you might not have spoken with at all? Many couples
assume they're going to get the photographer they're talking to, but they
might get somebody else. It's imperative to see samples and perhaps a proof
set from the photographer who will shoot your wedding -- and to emphasize
that you really want this photographer, not another staff member.
Keep in mind that proofs (the initial, un-airbrushed shots the photographer
shows you after the wedding) aren't perfect: There will be hits and misses.
On the plus side, viewing proofs will give you a better sense of the
photographer's ability.
VIDEOGRAPHER
Your videographer should be as unobtrusive as
possible. The videographer's presence can affect the atmosphere. If he
requires too many lights, it's likely to detract from the romance. Find out
if the camera will be on a tripod or shoulder-mounted, and ask how much
supplemental lighting is needed. Try to find a videographer who shares your
vision. It is recommended that you specify which guests you want interviewed
and how you'd like the videographer to approach them.
CATERER
Hidden catering expenses abound in the form of
service (waiters and bartenders), equipment (plates, silverware, and
linens), and bar items (liquor and garnishes). Don't ask about the base food
cost -- find out the cost per person including these extras. Ask the caterer
to prepare a tasting before you finalize the menu, so you'll know exactly
what you're getting.
FLORIST
Finding first-rate flowers depends on finding a
florist who shares your tastes and understands your vision. Look at samples
of bouquets and centerpieces or photos of weddings a florist has done, and
discuss prices for flowers you prefer. If they're too expensive, ask how to
get the same effect with cheaper blooms and greens. It's important to know
which flowers are costly and which are cost effective [as far as looking
great the longest, not having too strong a scent, or wilting early]. If
cost is a big factor and you're not picky, let the florist choose what's
best at the market that week.
CAKE BAKER
Cakes are priced by the slice -- this price is
usually based on ingredients and decorative elements, which vary greatly
between cakes. It is advised that couples decide what they want before
approaching potential bakers. That way, you're comparing apples and apples.
A general price range doesn't help much; you'll fare better if you ask for
the price of something specific. It is extremely important to set the
cake's delivery time in stone. That way, the location can prepare for its
arrival. Your cake should arrive promptly to give you peace of mind, and
the cake table, in turn, should be dressed and ready.
END GAME
The most important caveat when dealing with
vendors? Contracts. Make *sure* you sign one with every wedding professional
you hire, and make sure the contract lists all details, such as dates,
times, and exactly what you'll get (and what you don't want) from the
person or company. That way, you'll have recourse in case something goes
wrong.
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