I needed support. I needed confidence. I needed reassurance in my decisions. The wedding industry is inundated with suppliers and ideas, but through the process of elimination, my partner and I narrowed down from a long list of what we weren’t looking for to find what we were.
We were at a stage in our lives where almost everyone we knew had not only been to several weddings, but had also been part of a bridal party or planned their own wedding. Advice and opinions were coming at us fast and heavy. At times, it felt overwhelming. So, I reminded myself: I have been helping couples marry for years. I needed to give myself the advice I had given so many couples in the past and present: focus on you. Only you know how your day is meant to feel and look. Every wedding is a little bit the same and a little bit different. The goal is always to marry the love of your life. But opinions on what you should wear, do, spend, invite, and think can all become too much.
So began the search for our suppliers. Having the slight advantage of working in the wedding industry, I had a fair idea of who I would gel with in some areas of planning, but in others, I was at a complete loss. I started making inquiries, asking for phone calls, and observing their level of contact with me, whether they were passionate, or if I felt like just another date in the diary.
These things were important to me. I know I’m another job for all suppliers, but I wanted those who cared, reassured, bounced ideas with me, and listened to my thoughts and concerns. Most of the suppliers my husband and I had on our wedding day exceeded our expectations above and beyond!
- My make-up artist was basically a therapist on the day.
- My photographer was a background ninja, capturing shots I couldn’t have imagined.
- My ceremony musicians called me at 9:30 PM one night when I explained I wanted personalized, upbeat music for the crowd as they entered the ceremony room.
- The supplier for our garden games laid out more games on the lawn than I expected, so none of the bridal party had to worry about that job.
I hear from some couples about how let down they are by their suppliers and vendors, and it breaks my heart. These professionals are meant to care and provide a service or product for your dream day without causing hassle. It comes back to a lovely quote my girlfriends and I have: “Just do your f**king job!”
Finding the supplier that matches your vision and personality will make you feel more secure on your day, and it will also be such a fun journey!
My Tips When Researching Your Suppliers:
- Personalized Experience – Their services should match your vision.
- Coordination – Communication and support will ensure things run smoothly.
- Less Stress – A vendor who understands you will want the best for your day.
- Trust Their Expertise – Listen to their recommendations; they might wow you!
- Speak and Meet – Try to meet your vendor face-to-face or on a video call to build a stronger connection.
The Wedding Suite was created from situations like this. It’s a place to talk about wedding plans, concerns, or ideas without the eye rolls, the unsolicited advice, or feeling like your concerns aren’t important. They are important. And nobody here will eye roll! We are here to support you and help build a trusted network of suppliers who will support you every step of the way.
Jean xx
