Compatibility Matters

You’ve heard of The Millionaire Matchmaker, but have you heard about Vendor Matchmaking? Matchmaking is the process of pairing two people together, usually for the purpose of marriage. Here at ALP we pride ourselves on Vendor Client Matchmaking for the purpose of a successful wedding!

Couples often don’t realize the relationship you have with your vendors matters. It is important to know whether their work, and who they are as a company aligns with your vision for your big day. When working with A Little Party, we provide a curated vendor recommendation list for each client tailored to their wants, needs, likes, dislikes, and budget. This list, and attending bridal shows and events, allow you to contact, meet, and get to know the vendors in your area.

Before diving into finding your perfect vendor match, it is important to solidify your wedding date and budget. We often talk with our clients about their overall vision, top priorities such as food, florals, entertainment and atmosphere. Wherever your preference lies, we encourage you to book those vendors first then work down the list.

To know if a vendor is right for you, there are a few general questions to ask and things to consider when booking. Getting the answers to these general questions will be a helpful push in the right direction.

Does this vendor’s pricing align with our budget?
Does their previous work resemble work you’d want to see at your event?
Do their requirements align with when and where you are getting married?
Have you heard reputable things about their work/company?

Here are some examples of specifics you should consider or things to ask vendors when inquiring about their services. Questions tailored to your specific event should also be addressed before saying yes to your dream vendor!

Venue

Are there vendors that they require or a list of preferred vendors that you choose from?
Understand your wedding day access included in your rental. i.e- Is there rehearsal or set-up availability? When do you need to be cleaned up by?
What amenities does the venue provide? (tables, chairs, linens, decor, etc)
Familiarize yourself with the spaces for your ceremony and/or reception.
Depending on the time of year your event will be, what do your weather options look like?

Food & Beverage

Does the caterer have experience with the type of service or menu you’re looking for (buffet, plated, family style, stations - bbq, Italian, southern, taco bar, etc )?
We highly recommend full service caterers! Most venues do not allow “drop-off” caterers. Make sure your caterer can or will handle beverage service, set-up, break-down, disposables vs. china, etc.
If you are planning to serve alcohol does the caterer have bartenders or do you need to pursue a bartending service?
Who will provide the liquor, mixers, garnishes, barware, etc?
Are you looking for only cake or cake and cupcakes/ cutting cake and assorted desserts?
Does the caterer and/or baker offer personalized tastings?

Photo/Video Teams

Does their style of editing match what you are looking for? Do you gravitate towards light and airy, natural, or darker moody editing?
Have your photographer and videographer worked together before or at your venue?
Do their personalities match well with you? They will be with you for most of your wedding day, so make sure they are people you wouldn’t mind being around for a long period of time.
How many hours of coverage do they provide and how does that line up with important moments you have planned during the afternoon/ceremony/reception?

Florals

Be prepared with inspo and ideas to show the florists so you can receive an accurate quote at your consultation.
Be realistic with design and budget expectations. Florals can become costly quick. Think through arrangements that can be repurposed throughout your event such as reutilizing arbor flowers or ground arrangements for your sweetheart table, using bridesmaid’s bouquets on the head table or added decor, etc.
What will happen to the flowers and containers at the end of the event?

Entertainment

Consider all the options! Do you want a live band, DJ, or maybe a mix of both?
Who is providing ceremony music, amplification and microphones?
If you go with a DJ, get to know your DJ and their style. Are you looking for someone who is interactive with your guests, or maybe someone who is laid back and stays mostly behind the booth?
If you are leaning towards a band, think through their spatial/power needs and whether your venue can accommodate them. Request a copy of their Rider (basically their contract) to review with your venue and planner.

Hair & Makeup

Check with your bridal party to see who would like to have hair and makeup professionally done on wedding day.
Reach out to stylists who have done work similar to what you are looking for. Are they experienced with working the type of hair you or your bridal party have?
Confirm if the stylists havve any minimums or other weddings that day.
Do they have a salon to work out of, or will you be getting ready at the venue/ hotel/Airbnb/ home?
Can you have a trial prior to the wedding day?

Scheduling calls or consultations when possible is the best way to see who your perfect vendor match is!

We hope a little glimpse into our bag of tricks helps you fall in love with wonderful people who make your wedding a day filled with unforgettable memories!