On the wedding day, all of your carefully laid plans are in the hands of your vendors. The vendors you hire and the relationships you establish with them plays a major role in the success of the wedding. If you look in the right places, you will find qualified, reliable vendors who will meet your needs.

Finding the Right Ones

Vendors, if chosen wisely, are your greatest wedding day allies. Professional and reliable vendors are available in all areas and for all budgets. Researching their qualifications and making sure you and the vendor have a good rapport in terms of personality and style are important steps in ensuring wedding day success.

You can begin your search for wedding vendors in the following places:

• The Internet is a great place to search for local vendors. From major, national websites, you can find links to local professionals. The websites of professional wedding organizations include referrals to their members. Don't forget to check out local website and bridal blogs.

• Regional bridal publications cover the professionals and local happenings in their region. They also contain advertisements for vendors in all categories.

• Bridal shows are a great place to meet vendors. You can see samples of their work and get an overall impression of their style and demeanor.

• Referrals from friends and family members are a great way to get leads. If you know someone whose judgment you trust, relying on his or her feedback about a vendor is particularly helpful.

• You may also get referrals from vendors, venues, and your wedding planner. Referrals from qualified professionals you have hired or trust are definitely worth a look.

Signing on the Dotted Line

Interview each vendor thoroughly. Search the Internet for reviews; unhappy brides tend to find a way to make themselves heard. Ask each vendor for references, but keep in mind that a vendor is not going to give you the phone numbers of people who are unhappy with his or her services.

Finally, remember that advertisements are placed by the vendors, so of course they are going to be glowing endorsements. Once you find the professional you are happy with, get a written contract.

CONTRACT CHECKLIST

• Date of the event

• Time of the event

• Arrival/Set up time of the vendor

• Name of the company

• Name of the person/persons performing the service (if applicable)

• Attire/Dress code (if applicable)

• Location/Locations of the event

• Detailed description, including the type and scope of services to be performed

• Any specialized or extra services or provisions discussed, such as thematic attire

• Deposit information: how much and when it is due

• Payment information: how much and due dates

• Cancellation policies

• Signatures of both parties