Planning a wedding is a lot like assembling your own all-star team—each player brings something unique to the table to help create the day of your dreams. From the florist who turns your Pinterest board into a floral wonderland, to the photographer who captures those intimate, once-in-a-lifetime moments, each vendor plays a key role. But how do you find the perfect vendors who will not only meet but exceed your expectations?

Here’s your go-to guide for assembling your wedding “dream team” to make sure your big day is flawless from start to finish.

Start with Your Vision

Before diving into the search for vendors, get clear on what you want your wedding day to look and feel like. Is it a dreamy outdoor boho ceremony or an elegant ballroom affair? Your wedding style will serve as the foundation for choosing vendors who align with your vision. Look for those who have experience in your particular aesthetic, because they’ll already have the expertise to bring your ideas to life seamlessly.

Can They Deliver?

Think about the specific skills your vendors need to pull off your vision. Can the florist you’re eyeing handle the intricate floral arch you’ve been swooning over? Does your caterer specialize in the cuisine you’ve always wanted to serve?
Ask vendors to share portfolios of their work that’s similar to your style. If their portfolio shows a range of projects, it’s a good sign they can adapt to different wedding styles, budgets, and challenges. You want vendors who can deliver on your exact vision, and then some.

Reliability is Everything

Your wedding day is not the time to wonder if your vendors will show up on time or if they’ll get every detail right. Reliability is non-negotiable. How responsive are they during initial conversations? Do they return your calls and emails promptly? Do they meet deadlines?
Check with their past clients or reviews to gauge how dependable they are. Did they stick to their promises? A reliable vendor gives you peace of mind—letting you focus on enjoying your day without unnecessary stress.

Reviews & Recommendations: The Inside Scoop

In the age of the internet, reviews are your best friend. Platforms like Google, Yelp, and The Knot are great places to see what other couples have to say. Pay attention to consistent praise—or recurring concerns.
Beyond online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends, family, or even your venue. Many vendors work together frequently, so if your photographer loves working with a certain florist, that’s a solid recommendation to take seriously. Wedding planning can feel like a tight-knit community—tap into those networks!

Pricing: Quality Over Cost

Yes, weddings can be pricey, but remember—when it comes to vendors, you often get what you pay for. The cheapest option may not always deliver the quality you’re hoping for, while a vendor who slightly stretches your budget could make your dream day a reality.
Get detailed quotes and ensure you understand what’s included. Consider the value they bring to the table, not just the bottom line. Sometimes, it’s worth investing a bit more for someone who truly understands your vision and has the talent to execute it flawlessly.

Personality: Do They Get You?

Your vendors will be by your side throughout the entire planning process, so it’s important that you click with them. Do they understand your ideas? Are they easy to communicate with?
Your dream team should consist of people who not only get your style but also make you feel comfortable and confident. You want vendors who listen to your ideas, respect your preferences, and maybe even inspire you with creative ideas of their own!

Collaboration: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Each vendor plays a vital role, but the magic happens when they collaborate like a well-oiled machine. Ask vendors how they handle working with others—especially if you’ve already hired key players for your day. Do they communicate easily with other vendors?
Vendors who can seamlessly work together contribute to a smoother, stress-free wedding day. After all, your dream team isn’t just about individual talent—it’s about how they harmonize as a collective to ensure your day flows effortlessly.

Contracts: Protect Yourself

Once you’ve chosen your vendors, make sure to get everything in writing. Contracts ensure that both you and the vendor are clear on expectations, timelines, and deliverables. This helps avoid any surprises later on.
Carefully review each contract, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarifications. Everything from pricing to service details should be clearly outlined, leaving no room for confusion on your wedding day.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Process & Trust the Team!

Building your wedding dream team is a journey, but by focusing on vendors’ capabilities, reliability, reviews, and personalities, you’ll be set up for success. Remember—your wedding day is all about love, joy, and celebration, and your dream team is there to help you bring that vision to life.

Ready to assemble a dream team that makes your big day unforgettable? We’d love to chat about how we can make it happen. Let’s work together to create a wedding experience that’s uniquely yours, stress-free, and filled with memories to last a lifetime!

Vendors:

Planner & Designer: Yours Truly Weddings and Events

Florist: Shelly Sarver Designs

Venue: Toast Ankeny

Photographer: Victoria Pearson

Videographer: Forest Bound Films

Hair: Amara Salon

Makeup: Sydney Reysack & Ivy Boyd