page 75 X metropolitan weddings X Summer / fall 2021
The following questions were put together by some of our industry ' s top professionals for you . Any of these questions would be appropriate to ask of any merchants bidding for a spot in the wedding-planning team . From bakers to dress shops to photographers , these questions are fitting and necessary for a wide array of vendors and should be asked as often as possible .
Do you have general liability insurance and workers ' comp ? Many venues are now requiring this of merchants and failure to comply with these insurance requirements could result in a chaotic scramble to find a new merchant just days before the wedding . No one wants that !
Do you have backup staff and on-call replacements ? This one is especially important in the time of Covid . With a lingering uncertainty of availability due to illness , brides and grooms should want to ensure their big day is covered and fully staffed incase of emergency .
What do you need from us as far as technology and electricity are concerned ? This might seem like a redundant or trivial question , but the last thing that a couple wants to encounter on the day of their vows is to find out there ’ s not enough outlets for the DJ , photobooth and photographer all together .
What is the best time to have my ceremony as far as lighting and temperature is concerned ? This was a question stressed to us by numerous merchants – especially when it comes to outdoor ceremonies or receptions . A June ceremony might be better when held at 7 p . m . when the sun is no longer blinding and the guests can watch comfortably protected from the heat of the day .
Have you been to this honeymoon destination ? Do you have personal recommendations or feedback you can give us ? This question is especially geared towards travel agents . When planning the details of their honeymoon , couples should seek out personal advice and recommendations as opposed to pre-scripted brochures and presentations . Experience matters .
Can we see a full wedding gallery ? A picture is worth a thousand words . Instead of simply taking a merchant ’ s word for how extravagant and successful their weddings are , ask for galleries to look at past successes for yourself . In addition to asking for a completed gallery , a pro-tip from one of our vendors is to check on pricing if you find inspiration on Pinterest . A lot of Pinterest pictures are from styled shoots and not actual weddings so you ’ ll want to double check the cost of implementing something like that into your big day . You don ’ t want to be blindsided by any extra costs .
Should I include you in my meal count for the reception ? A surprising number of merchants require a meal as a part of their contract and it is something that can commonly be overlooked by busy brides ( and grooms ). Make sure there ’ s enough food for everyone by simply double checking if someone needs a meal or not .
Can you tell us more about the referrals you gave us for other merchants ? If a positive referral is given to a merchant you ’ re considering by another merchant in the wedding business , don ’ t be afraid to ask follow-up questions . Is the referral recommendation because of financial kickbacks from the merchant , or is it because of outstanding work and positive business practices ?
Weddings are monumental occasions in the lives of young romantics . The first step in a successful marriage is handling the big decisions that come with planning a ceremony and reception together . Asking the right questions not only helps ensure that your wedding will be beautiful and memorable , but it makes the planning process more enjoyable and relaxing for brides and grooms alike . It ’ s your day , so ask whatever it is you need to ask to make sure you feel confident in saying “ I do ” to your merchants . XmW
What ALL is included in my package ? Don ’ t be afraid to ask for specifics from any and all vendors . Knowing exactly what is included for the price of a package just makes good sense .