How to choose a supplier

Many Brides worry when choosing a supplier for their wedding, will they over spend, will they turn up on time, will they do what I ask!

There are so many wedding providers and like any other area of business there are good and there are bad. I have put some tips together to help you get the right supplier for your big day:

1) Ask friends and colleagues if they can recommend anyone and ask what they liked most about them

2) Speak to your venue, no doubt they have experience of working with some good suppliers BUT check that they have actually seen their work not just have a name on their books. The latter is fine but best to know so you can further investigate.

3) Personality. Make sure you get on with them when you meet, having a good relationship with the person capturing your day is vital in ensuring your requirements are fulfilled. The exceptions to this are those suppliers you won't be meeting on the day - these may include furniture delivery, stationery, favour makers etc. Where as really liking your photographer is vital. Getting on with them may mean you feel more comfortable about making late changes and asking new things from them on the day.

4) Check out their history, ask how long they have traded for, how many weddings they do a year, how many they will take on per day.

5) New suppliers are starting up all the time, just because they are new does not mean avoid them, many a bargain can be made by bagging a brand new supplier wanting to build a portfolio. Talk through any concerns and ask for references from previous work placements or training centres.

6) Speak to a bride they have worked with previously and ask her about her likes and dislikes over the entire day, things to be aware of, request or look out for.

7) Check their paperwork, do they have insurance and belong to any relevant governing bodies or organisations.

8) Ask your wedding planner, this is an ideal source of recommendation as they work with different suppliers every weekend and know the right questions to ask.

9) Ask your supplier if they can recommend other suppliers, who do they enjoy working with and why. This will ensure commitment from any 'linked' companies and you will also help their working relationships at the same time.

10) Lastly ask plenty of questions, what is their passion, do they want to spend time discussing your day, can they add ideas to your plans and work with you, make sure you also like their payment terms. Also make sure they are easy to contact, do they have time for you and any last minute requests.

Do remember Isabella Weddings can help you with sourcing suppliers or venues and also researching that special theme - you don't have to book a package to take advantage of this. Take a look at our website for more www.isabellaweddings.co.uk

So there we have it, I hope that helps. There are many wonderful suppliers just waiting to share your day with you, happy hunting!