Find the Perfect Wedding Vendors

It's recommended to book your venue 12-18 months in advance, as they tend to book up quickly. Photographers, caterers, and other popular vendors should be booked 9-12 months before your wedding. Less in-demand vendors like transportation or day-of coordinators can typically be booked 6-9 months in advance.

As a general guideline, about 40-50% of your total wedding budget will go toward your venue and catering. Photography typically takes 10-12%, flowers 8-10%, music/entertainment 8-10%, and the remaining budget is distributed among other vendors such as attire, transportation, and stationery.

Important questions include: Are you available on my wedding date? What is included in your packages? What is your cancellation policy? Do you have insurance? How much experience do you have with weddings? Can I see examples of your previous work? Will you be the one working at my wedding or will it be someone else from your team?

Tipping varies by vendor type. Service providers like hairstylists, waitstaff, and bartenders typically receive 15-20% tips. For vendor owners (like photographers who own their business), tipping is appreciated but not expected. For delivery and setup crews, $5-$20 per person is appropriate.