O' My Gosh.. as a photographer I have seen it all ( almost) .. let me help you!
I have found and joined several bride sites on FB. These are awesome!!! I repeat ladies.. these are awesome.. brides, vendors, and sales all in one..People who are doing the same thing or have just went through the same thing. It is great. So here are a few tips for you!
1. To eliminate looking through 45 vendors that you can't or won't hire or that may or may not be available.. when you look for a vendor this is what you should say..
ISO xyz type vendor for xyz date.. we are looking for x to y hours of service and would like xyz with that. Our budget is xyz to xyz for this. looking for dependable referrals or vendors who would like to work with us on our special day.
This eliminates the people who are booked, the people way out of the budget you wish to use, and it also lets the vendors know what to quote you between hours of service and wants. It at least gives a start point.
2. Never underestimate what other vendors know.. especially photographers. For example I have worked with florists, cake decor, DJs, venues, and more. With each wedding I learn more and more tips and tricks I pass on to my brides!!! You would not believe what a photographer can tell you about these vendors/venues sometimes and they are willing to share..
3. Here is a quick tip: Have you considered a kitchen cake? You simply get a smaller fancy cake and also serve from a sheet cake that is cheaper and is located in the kitchen for serving time. This can save money off of your total budget and can be moved to where you may need more money!
4. Did you know some venues and vendors will give a Friday discount or if your wedding is shorter than the norm.. some have half day specials they don't advertise.!!!!!
5. As a photographer I offer my services differently than others. We all operate differently. Some want everything pd for up front. Now I know weddings add up and I am not opposed to having the wedding or package pd up front and then other purchases made later .. ( income tax time is popular ).
6. When booking. Most vendors require a retainer fee. To get the vendor you really want try to book venue then book vendors ASAP. If you can book 1 year in advance.. that is great. !!! Waiting till 2 months before the wedding to find a photographer or DJ doesn't save you money.. it actually scares the vendor. The vendor most likely has been messed over by a late comer that ends up making more changes later due to being unprepared.
7. Remember .. breath.. this is supposed to be fun.
This is a general guideline for my wedding cost. Ask about half day weddings or creating a package to suit special circumstances.
