It is impossible to think of a wedding day without key vendors but sometimes couples have to make cuts based on their budget. When a planner helps a couple make these cuts they have to ensure they still get their dream day. Aside from a planner, venue, caterer and planner these are the suggested vendors needed for a wedding day.
1. Photographer. All couples want their day to be remembered. Whether you plan on sharing your photos to social media or getting prints it is important to have all the things documented on your day of. This person (or team of people) are with you from hair and makeup through your grand exit and it is important to have someone you enjoy being around while they also capture your entire day.
2. Videographer. A lot of couples think you don't need a videographer if you have a good enough photographer. I am here to tell you that is not true. Yes, photos capture a lot, but they do not capture all the moments with exact detail. A lot of people also think videography is the equivalent to a family friend using their iPhone to record some stuff but it is so beyond that. With a videographer you get a movie quality film that captures all the small moments you may have otherwise forgotten about.
3. Officiant. Well this one is obvious - you need an officiant to get married! If you are going to a church you may have a long relationship with your officiant. But if you are starting from scratch it is important to pick someone who is properly certified to marry you in your state and someone who will work with you to make your ceremony totally custom to you. You don't want them to ramble on about things that you don't want included in the ceremony or go off script.
4. Hair + Makeup. If you are going to spend money on professional hair and makeup then you better be sure you will look FLAWLESS. With all the photos and videos being taken you do not want to look back and think you didn't love the way you looked. It is so important to find an artist who understands what you want to look like and who creates that look for you.
5. Florist. There are so many DIY opportunities for weddings but a lot of those end up becoming stressful on couples once the wedding rolls around. To keep your sanity hire a florist who can at least provide your personals day of (bouquets, boutineers, and flowers for parents).
6. DJ/Band. It is so important to find a band or DJ that knows how to keep the party going. You won't want an empty dance floor or bad emcee. Find a company that really matches your wedding vibe and dance the night away
7. Transportation. Transportation between your wedding day events is SO important and is what is most often the cause for late ceremony start times. Go with a reputable company that you and your planner trust to ensure your and your guests experience is perfect.
8. Bakery. Because who doesn't want some delicious dessert before a night of partying? If there is one big complaint most wedding guests have is that the cake was too dry. Pick a bakery that totally nails design but also flavor.
9. Paper products. You would be surprised how many things a couple needs to get printed on a wedding day. From invitations to bar signs to escort cards and beyond there is a lot to get done. Thankfully there are tons of online platforms to create these with ease now! However, you could never replace a personal designer.
10. A good rental company. No venue will be completely custom to you as a couple but we sure can make it seem that way! By adding a few rentals like some speciality linens or glassware you can have a wedding design that is simply you.
Provided by Hilary Majercin, Wedding Planner
