We get asked by so many couples during the wedding planning process, Should I Hire Wedding Vendors in a Specific Order? There are some wedding vendors that we highly recommend hiring before others to ensure your wedding day is all that you dreamed it would be. When it comes to wedding planning, it's all about prioritizing and timing. We've compiled a timeline that we think is best to hire a specific wedding vendor.
Should I Hire Wedding Vendors in a Specific Order? - Photographer: Onsite Photography LLC
1. Wedding Planner
One of the best things you can do when planning your wedding is to hire a wedding planner. We recommend hiring a wedding planner at least 12 months before your wedding date. Wedding planners can assist you with establishing a realistic budget, finding a venue and securing other vendors. Your wedding planner will be there from start to finish offering guidance throughout the entire planning process. Of course, you can still do things on your own such as researching venues and other vendors that are recommended. However, we wouldn't recommend booking a venue or any vendors without consulting your wedding planner who can assist with contracts, tours and so much more. If hiring a wedding planner isn't in your budget, we recommend hiring a wedding coordinator to assist with your planning. Many wedding coordinators begin working with you at least 2-3 months before your wedding date.
2. Venue
Next on our timeline of "Should I Hire Wedding Vendors in a Specific Order? booking a venue. Just like finding a wedding planner, we recommend booking a wedding venue at least 12 months in advance. Since the pandemic, we would even recommend booking a wedding venue 18 to 24 months in advance. Many venues are playing "catch up" from weddings that were postponed and rescheduled.
3. Band or DJ
Whether you plan on having a band or DJ, we recommend booking this type of vendor at least 11 months in advance. If you have your heart set on a particular band or DJ, you may want to reach out to them even sooner. You would want to provide entertainment at your wedding. Many vendors are also booked up due to the pandemic and weddings being rescheduled or postponed.
4. Photographer
Your wedding day wouldn't be the same without a professional photographer. You don't want to miss those cherished and priceless moments being caught on camera. We recommend hiring a photographer at least 11 months during your wedding planning process. Again, if there is a specific photographer that you absolutely must have at your wedding check their availability a whole lot sooner.
5. Makeup Artists and Hair Stylist
If you are planning on having your hair and makeup done professionally, we recommend booking them at least 8 to 9 months in advance. MUAs and hair stylists that specialize in weddings may require booking in advance especially during peak season.
If you would like to learn more about our recommendations, Should I Hire Wedding Vendors in a Specific Order? contact us to speak to one of our wedding planners