Your Big Day is arriving soon, and if you are a bride, I can understand all the questions and thoughts running through your mind. This is why today I want to talk about one of the biggest parts of wedding planning—choosing the right vendors. From the dress to the décor, the music to the menu, every choice you make brings your vision to life. But with so many options out there, how do you find professionals who truly understand what you want?
I’ve been part of so many weddings as a wedding photographer in Wyndham and Yarraville, and I know firsthand how much of a difference the right team makes. So, let’s walk through how to choose the people who will help create a day that feels effortless, joyful, and completely you.
1. Know Your Vision First
Before reaching out to vendors, take a step back and picture your wedding. Is it an intimate garden ceremony, a grand ballroom celebration, or a relaxed seaside gathering? The clearer you are on your style and priorities, the easier it will be to find professionals who match your aesthetic.
For example, if you love candid, natural moments, look for a professional wedding photographer who focuses on storytelling rather than overly posed images. The same applies to florists, planners, and stylists—choose those whose work aligns with what you imagine for your day.
2. Do Your Research & Read Reviews
The best way to know if a vendor is a good fit is to hear from couples who have worked with them before. Reviews will tell you more than just how the final product turned out—they’ll give you insight into the experience of working with that vendor. Were they responsive? Did they make the process smooth? Did they go above and beyond to ensure the day was stress-free?
If you’re looking at wedding photography packages, for instance, don’t just check the images—read what past clients have said about the experience. A great wedding photographer in Wyndham, Essendon or Yarraville will not only deliver beautiful photos but will also make you feel comfortable and present throughout your big day.
3. Meet Vendors in Person or Over a Call
Some vendors, like your photographer, planner, and celebrant, will be with you during some of the most emotional and intimate moments of your wedding. You want to feel completely at ease with them. A quick chat—whether in person or over a video call—will help you get a sense of their personality and approach.
Ask questions, share your ideas, and see how they respond. Do they listen? Are they genuinely excited about your wedding? The best experts in their field will feel like a natural fit, offering guidance while still making sure your day reflects you.
4. Consider Your Budget Without Compromising Quality
Weddings can add up quickly, so finding affordable yet professional vendors is key. The trick is to focus on value—what are you actually getting for your investment?
For example, when choosing a wedding photography package, think beyond just the number of hours covered. Does it include a second shooter? An engagement session? A beautifully curated album? A good wedding photographer will help you build a package that meets your needs without unnecessary extras.
5. Trust Your Instincts
At the end of the day, go with vendors who feel right. The best professionals will not only deliver incredible service but will also make the process smooth and enjoyable. If something doesn’t sit well with you, trust that feeling.
Your wedding day is all about love, celebration, and connection. Surround yourself with people who make you feel excited, supported, and stress-free. When you do, everything will come together beautifully, just the way it was meant to.
(Keep scrolling below my gallery for more blog info on what to do if your ceremony runs behind schedule!)
CREATIVE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN WERRIBEE, YARRAVILLE & SURROUNDING AREAS - Check More of My Work on Socials Below:
Must-Ask Questions for Every Wedding Vendor Before Booking
No matter how much thought you’ve put into every detail, things can take longer than expected. Maybe hair and makeup run late, a family member goes missing before group photos, or that dreamy sunset you were counting on disappears behind unexpected clouds. If you're planning a wedding in Essendon, you're in for a treat. This beautiful Melbourne suburb offers a mix of historic charm, elegant venues, and stunning parklands, making it a dream location for weddings. Whether you're hosting your celebration in a classic ballroom, a lush garden, or an intimate boutique venue, finding vendors who know the area well can make all the difference.
Breathe. Your D-Day isn’t about sticking to a strict schedule, it’s about moments. And when things don’t go exactly as planned, I promise it’s still going to be magical. Here’s what to do when time starts slipping away:
1. What Is Included in Your Packages?
Whether it’s catering, floral arrangements, or wedding photography packages, you want to be clear about what’s covered. Some vendors may offer all-inclusive deals, while others have add-ons that could increase the price. For example, when hiring a professional wedding photographer, ask if the package includes an engagement session, a second shooter, or an album. Knowing exactly what you're getting ensures there are no surprises later.
2. How Do You Handle Last-Minute Changes?
Weddings are unpredictable. Maybe the weather shifts, a vendor falls through, or there’s a sudden change in timing. A true expert in their field will have contingency plans in place. Ask them how they adapt to last-minute changes and what their process is if something unexpected happens. Flexibility is key, especially for major vendors like your planner, caterer, and a professional photographer.
3. Have You Worked at My Venue Before?
While not essential, it helps if your vendor is familiar with your location. A wedding photographer in Wyndham, Essendon or Yarraville who has shot at your venue before will already know the best angles, lighting, and hidden gems for photos. Similarly, florists and caterers who have worked in the space will have insights on what works best. If they haven’t, ask if they’re willing to visit beforehand to get a feel for the setup.
4. What Is Your Backup Plan?
For vendors who play a crucial role in your day—like your photographer, entertainment, or officiant—it’s important to know what happens if they can’t make it. Do they have a trusted colleague who can step in? Will they refund or reschedule? These details might seem small now, but having peace of mind on the day is priceless.
5. What Is Your Payment & Cancellation Policy?
Every vendor has different policies regarding deposits, final payments, and cancellations. Before committing, clarify the payment schedule and whether there are fees for rescheduling. If you’re working with affordable wedding photography packages, make sure you understand what happens in case of unexpected changes. Transparency in pricing and policies makes for a stress-free experience.
6. How Will You Work with My Other Vendors?
Your wedding vendors should feel like a team. The best ones collaborate seamlessly, making the day effortless for you. Ask your wedding photographer how they coordinate with your videographer, planner, and celebrant. A photographer who works well with other vendors will capture moments beautifully while ensuring the flow of the day isn’t disrupted.
7. Can You Provide References or a Portfolio?
Reviews and testimonials can tell you a lot about a vendor’s reliability and professionalism. Ask for references or check out previous work, whether it’s a caterer’s past menus, a DJ’s wedding playlist, or a professional wedding photographer’s portfolio. Seeing their past work helps you feel confident that they can bring your vision to life.
8. What’s the Best Way to Communicate with You?
Smooth communication is everything when planning a wedding. Some vendors prefer emails, while others love phone calls or video chats. Understanding how they communicate and how quickly they respond will help you set expectations. You want someone who is attentive, reliable, and easy to reach when needed.
Your wedding vendors are more than just people providing a service—they're the team that will help bring your dream day to life. Take your time, ask the right questions, and trust your instincts. When you find professionals who truly understand your vision and make you feel at ease, you’ll know you’ve made the right choice.
(Keep scrolling below my gallery to read on how to have a perfect reception timeline for fun stress free photos.)
CANDID WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN POINT COOK; CHECK SOME OF MY WORK BELOW
Vendor Contracts: What You Need to Know Before Signing
You’ve found the perfect vendors to bring your wedding vision to life, and now it’s time to make things official. But before you sign on the dotted line, let’s talk about wedding vendor contracts. They’re not the most exciting part of planning, but trust me, they’re one of the most important. These agreements protect both you and the professionals you’re hiring, ensuring everything runs smoothly on your big day.
1. The Basics: What’s Included?
A vendor contract should spell out exactly what you’re getting. Whether it’s a catering menu, floral arrangements, or wedding photography packages, everything needs to be clear and detailed.
For example, if you’re booking a professional wedding photographer, the contract should outline the number of hours covered, how many images you’ll receive, whether prints or albums are included, and the expected delivery time for your final gallery. The more specific the agreement, the fewer surprises later.
2. Payment Terms & Cancellation Policies
Let’s talk money. Before signing, make sure you understand the payment schedule—how much is due upfront, when the remaining balance is required, and what happens if you need to reschedule or cancel.
Most vendors require a non-refundable deposit to secure your date, which makes sense because they’re blocking off that time for you. However, policies around cancellations and refunds vary. If unexpected changes arise, will you get a partial refund? Can you reschedule without a fee? These are things to clarify before committing.
3. Contingency Plans: What Happens if Something Goes Wrong?
No one likes to think about things going wrong, but it’s always better to be prepared. What happens if your wedding photographer gets sick? If your caterer has a last-minute emergency? A solid contract will outline backup plans, including whether a replacement will be provided or if a refund will be issued.
For photography, I always recommend asking if your wedding photography package includes a second shooter or if there’s an associate photographer available in case of emergencies. Knowing you have a safety net in place will give you peace of mind leading up to the big day.
4. Delivery Timelines & Final Products
This is especially important for photography and videography. Ask when you can expect to receive your final images, albums, or edited video. If your contract says your photos will be delivered within 8-12 weeks, you’ll know exactly when to expect them and won’t need to chase down your photographer.
If your vendor is providing printed items like invitations, signage, or floral arrangements, confirm delivery dates to avoid last-minute stress.
5. The Fine Print: Read Everything Carefully
This might sound obvious, but read every word before signing. Some contracts include clauses about vendor meals, travel fees, or restrictions on external vendors. If anything seems unclear, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. A professional and experienced wedding vendor will be more than happy to walk you through the details.
Take your time, ask questions, and make sure everything aligns with your expectations before signing. When you work with the right vendors, backed by a clear agreement, you can enjoy your day knowing everything is taken care of.
If you’re ready to make your "I Do" moments unforgettable, let’s chat about creating the perfect affordable photography package for you.
WHO ARE WE? Inanna Photography is a Melbourne-based studio specializing in boudoir photography, including bridal, couples, and individual sessions. The studio is dedicated to empowering clients by capturing their beauty, confidence, and unique essence in an intimate and supportive environment. With a focus on personalized experiences, we creates stunning, elegant portraits that celebrate individuality and self-love. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply embracing yourself, we offers a refined and empowering photographic experience.
Love Jade
xoxox
