How to choose the right wedding business

Your wedding is arguably the most important day of your life, so it’s absolutely imperative you take your time selecting the right businesses for the job. We share some tips on how to choose a quality service provider.

Photographer

• Check if they’re a member of The Australian Institute of Professional Photography (AIPP), the Australian Photographic Society (APS) or another recognised association.
• Provide a shot list specifying exactly what you’d like photographed so you don’t miss any important moments.
• Where possible, choose someone who has experience shooting at the location.

Videographer

• Look over examples of previous work as well as references/testimonials from past customers.
• Note who’s a member of recognised videography associations like the Wedding & Event Videography Association (WEVA). This indicates they’re properly trained and their skills are up-to-date.
• Check they’re willing to scope out the site before the big day and work out how to manage any obvious obstructions like sun glare.

Invitation Designer

• Be detailed in your brief, and let the graphic designer know the colour schemes and fonts you like.
• Confirm they’re happy to send you mock-ups and make multiple changes until you’re satisfied with the final result.

Cake Maker

• Taste test as much as possible. A good cake maker should also recommend suitable icing and decorations.
• Provide your cake maker with swatches of the bridesmaid dresses and photos of the flowers to ensure the cake matches the rest of the wedding décor.

Hair & Makeup Artist

• Have a trial with your hair & makeup artist before the big day to make sure you’re happy with the partnership. Trials are normally offered at a reduced rate.
• Find out if the hair & makeup artist is happy to come to you or if you have to visit their salon. This could not just affect the quoted price but the timing of the whole day.

Car Hire Business

• Choose a size and style that will best suit your needs. Limousines can fit between 6-20 people, while most vintage cars only have comfortable seating for 3.
• Each wedding car company manages things differently so allow about 6-8 to weeks for planning.
• Find out exactly what’s included in the quoted price – especially if you’re expected to pay an additional fuel charge.

Florist

• Visit the florist to ensure only top-quality flowers are being offered. They should be fresh and the colours rich.

Celebrant

• Look for someone with a friendly disposition who’s happy to answer all your questions.
  Make sure you feel comfortable, and you have a good rapport with him or her.