Questions to Ask Vendors - Raleigh, NC
Questions to Ask Vendors - Raleigh, NC.
When approaching vendors at a Raleigh bridal show, there are a few key questions to ask upfront to know if they’re right for you. Digging in and getting some details right from the start will be helpful before you sign a contract or pay for their services.
Inquire about their experience. Find out if this is a new company or a team of seasoned professionals. Try to get additional details and ask the vendor if they have experience with your specific type of event or vision. For example, if you’re planning a destination wedding, has your dream photographer shot one before? Or, you’ve found a very specific cake design that you love. Can the cake baker pull it off? You don’t have to get into the nitty-gritty, but having an understanding of their experience is important.
Ask about availability. Find out upfront if your dream vendor is available. This should be one of your first questions so you don’t get too attached if they are already booked. It can be heartbreaking to make a connection only to find out they are not available. This does not apply to all vendors, but those such as photographers, wedding planners, bands, etc. may only have one slot per day available. Tip: book as soon as you can!
Check their pricing. Be sure you love a vendor’s work before you inquire about pricing. Make sure you are a great fit for one another and then ask about pricing. Ask about their pricing model and if they have custom pricing or set prices. Some vendors don’t have set pricing and it may fluctuate based on your location, the size of your event, etc.
Ask how to book their services. One of the most important things to find out is booking information for your favorite vendors. Find out how much their deposit is and what they require, such as a contract. Some vendors may have special perks (discount, extra services, etc.) with booking right on the spot. If you fall in love and are ready to book, ask your vendor if you can book at the show or set up a consultation after the show to sign a contract.
When you’re face-to-face with a vendor you’re meeting for the first time, it can be exciting but also difficult to know exactly what questions to ask. Be sure to at least get a few basic details and then take notes on your phone or in a small journal to keep up with who you talk to and who you really like. This will be helpful after the bridal show when you follow up with the vendors that meet all of your expectations.
via Greg Finck