Choosing and Negotiating with Wedding Suppliers

On your wedding day, not only will you want to save money where you can, you'll also want to be sure that you have chosen the right suppliers. Follow these top tips for choosing and negotiating with wedding suppliers.

1. When you meet with a supplier, take a list of what you wish to achieve and questions you have. Be precise in order to get an accurate quotation for the job they are going to do.
2. Check out the market place, always see more than one supplier and gather quotations so you have a comparison.
3. Once you have gathered your quotes pick your favourites and then begin to chat with them about the price, how it compares to your budget, and if there is room for manoeuvre.
4. For big savings look at midweek weddings as they often offer a hefty discount and can be as much fun as weekends if not more.
5. To save money on food, check to see if you can lower costs by adding canapés and leaving out the wedding breakfast starter, or by having wedding cake as the dessert. In addition, sparkling wine is a great alternative to champagne and usually half the price.
6. Venues are keen to have your business, so if you have a firm budget in mind and a definite idea of what you want they will try and assist; be sure to keep it realistic though, they are running a business. If they cannot reduce costs then ask if things such as the bridal suite can be included in the package.
7. Often the actual price cannot always be lowered so ask for “more for your money” - an extra glass of wine, tea and coffee thrown in, place cards printed etc. All of these will lower your costs and are minimal to suppliers so happy faces all round.
8. Always check your suppliers’ (such as your wedding photographer and wedding band)  requirements such as food and drinks; this will be an extra cost to you on top of their fees so again is a good negotiating point. If a hot meal is part of the agreement you do not need provide them with the food from the wedding breakfast menu, a fish pie will do! - For more information on this subject look at the Should I provide Food for my Wedding Band? and Do I Need to Feed my Wedding Photographer? articles.
   
9. Hire a wedding planner. They will be able to assist and negotiate for you as well as checking that everything is correct on the day.
10. Remember that you should feel comfortable with all your suppliers, especially those you will work with closely on the day such as your photographer.

Article by Award Winning Wedding Planner Julie Tooby

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