How Do I Choose The Right Vendors For My Event?

One of the hardest parts of the planning process is most definitely choosing vendors.  So how do you choose the right vendors for you? Choosing a vendor can be broken down into three key steps:

Step 1: Research, Research, Research

• Look at the different style and offerings of the vendors in that specific category
• Once you have identified a few companies within that category with a style you like, confirm their availability
• Research the industry standards for pricing so that you know what the appropriate range is, as this helps to avoid surprises when you get your quotations back

Step 2: Meet with the vendors

• Talking to a vendor via phone, Skype or in person is always recommended
• Ensure that you let them know exactly what services you are wanting them to provide
• Be sure not to meet too many vendors as this can become confusing (I personally send my clients vendors in groups of 3)

Step 3: Compare quotations

• Look at the quotations provided
• Compare them against each other
• Ensure that you are getting what you asked for
• Make sure the important details and information are listed correctly

Once you have gathered all of this information it is now time to make your decision.  The one piece of advice that I give all of my clients is to TRUST YOUR GUT.  Take into account the feeling that you get when meeting or chatting with each of these vendors. Ensure that you choose the vendor that you feel understands your vision and that you feel the most comfortable with.  The reason I say to trust your gut is because the way you feel during that initial consultation is the same way you are going to feel throughout the planning process.  Remember, they will essentially become part of your team so choosing the right vendors ensures that everything will run smoothly. 

And when you work with the right people you can create something great!