Woohoo! So you’ve just said yes to marrying the love of your life — that is so exciting! I remember the evening when Adam proposed to me, and the first thing I did was share the news with my friends and family!

Then you start receiving questions like: “Did you get your dress yet? Do you have a date yet? Where’s the venue?” and then it hits you….that you need to plan a wedding. YOUR WEDDING! Oh gosh. What needs to be done first?!

Did you know that wedding vendors typically book up their dates 1–2 years in advance?!

As a wedding photographer myself, I cannot stress enough about booking your primary wedding vendors as soon as possible. Don’t hesitate to book! My couples typically book me 15 months before their wedding date. I’ve even had a few couples book me 24 months in advance!

Friends, I’m here to guide you. There are two things you and your partner need to do before inquiring with vendors.

Pick a date. Secure your venue.

If you have a specific date in mind already, AWESOME! Research potential venues and send inquiries to the ones you can see yourself having your ceremony.

If you have a specific venue in mind and are flexible on dates, reach out to them and see what their availability is. Let them know what season you envisioned for your ceremony and they’ll provide a list of open dates!

What’s next?

After you’ve locked in your venue and date, then it’s time to start the hunt for your primary vendors. I recommend only reaching out to any vendors when the first step has been finalized. This would also be an excellent time to sit down with your partner and anyone else who is contributing to the wedding financially to discuss what your overall wedding budget is.

WHO ARE THE VENDORS THAT BOOK FAST?!

These are the primary vendors that you should book AS SOON AS YOU’RE ENGAGED! Many couples consider these vendors below as their top priority when vendor hunting.

• Venue
• Photographer and/or Videographer
• Planner
• Caterer
• DJ

If you have a favorite vendor in mind, reach out to them right away! Do not hesitate to book till the last minute 🙂

If you need any recommendations for specific vendors, send me a message! I know many talented professionals in this industry!