Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting times in your life, but it can also be overwhelming. One of the more difficult aspects is when it comes to booking the right vendors. From securing your dream photographer to finding a florist who can bring your vision to life, knowing when and how to book your wedding vendors is crucial to keeping things stress-free.

Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate the process.

The general rule is “the earlier, the better”. Some vendors, like photographers and venues, are in high demand and can be booked up a year or more in advance. This is especially important for peak wedding seasons.

12+ Months Out: Start with the big-ticket vendors like your wedding venue, photographer, and videographer. These vendors tend to book up quickly, so securing them early will give you peace of mind.

8-10 Months Out: Focus on finding a caterer, florist, and any other major services like wedding planners or entertainment (DJ, live band).

6-8 Months Out: Now’s the time to book your officiant, cake designer, and other smaller but essential vendors like transportation.

3-6 Months Out: Lock down your hair and makeup artists, finalize rentals (chairs, linens), and any other details for décor or guest accommodations.

Venue: Sets the tone for your entire wedding day. Booking the venue is typically your first step.

Photographer & Videographer: The professionals that will capture your day from start to finish, preserving your memories for years to come.

Caterer: Whether it’s a formal dinner or a buffet, your caterer ensures your guests are well-fed.

Florist: Flowers set the ambiance for your ceremony and reception. You’ll want a florist who can understand your style and deliver the perfect arrangements.

Entertainment: A DJ or live band will keep the energy up. And they’ll ensure your guests have a great time dancing the night away.

Officiant: If you're not getting married in a church, you'll need to find someone to officiate the ceremony.

Hair & Makeup Artists: will ensure you and your wedding party look your best on the big day.

Finding the right vendors can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Here are some tips to make it easier. Ask recently married friends or family for recommendations. Personal experiences often provide the best insights. Sites like Book Focal Marketplace or local wedding directories can help you find highly-rated vendors in your area. Instagram and Pinterest are great for seeing real work from vendors. Search relevant hashtags like #BostonWeddingPhotographer or #SaltLakeWeddingFlorist, and don’t hesitate to reach out to those whose style resonates with you. Many wedding vendors gather at bridal expos, giving you the chance to meet them in person, ask questions, and even score special deals. Always check online reviews and testimonials to ensure your vendor is reliable. With photographers, florists, and planners, you need to make sure their style matches your vision. It’s important to ask for a portfolio. Contracts are your best friend when it comes to booking vendors. Ensure all agreements are detailed and clearly outlined before you sign.

By booking your vendors early, doing your research, and sticking to your timeline, you’ll have everything you need for a seamless, stress-free wedding day. Happy planning!

Louvenir is here to capture the once in a lifetime wedding day memories. Let's set up a time to talk more details!