A Guide to Wedding Vendors: Who You Need and What They Do

Picture your dream wedding — what does it look like? Every moment should be perfect, from the elegant venue to the showstopping cake. Behind every element is a team of dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to make your dream day come true. Who are the different vendors, and what do they do? Discover how they make your celebration unforgettable.

1.  Venue

Your wedding venue will set the foundation for your big day. According to The Knot, couples spend an average of $12,800 for their dream locale. You can use a single location for your ceremony and reception or rent separate spaces.

Every detail will revolve around your booked venue. Securing your space means having a fixed date, which signals the official start of wedding planning.

2.  Wedding Planner

Wedding planners assist you with budgeting and coordinating the wedding day timeline. They help you prepare for and actualize your dream ceremony, guiding you from the planning stage to your big day. They ensure the things you worked hard for during the past months go smoothly.

3.  Photographer

A wedding photographer is in charge of capturing moments — from the morning of your big day to your reception. Hire someone with a solid background in wedding photography to ensure your photos are worth your money. Choose someone whose work and aesthetic align with your preferred vision.

4.  Videographer

Like the photographer, a wedding videographer is responsible for recording candid moments and turning them into beautiful videos. They can give you various versions of your day, from full-length films to same-day edits. They’re usually hired as a team since you’ll need a few people to take videos of your big day from different perspectives.

5.  Bridal Shop

Finding the perfect dress or suit takes time, effort and several fittings. Depending on where you buy your gown, a retailer needs at least six to nine months for it to be made and delivered. You also need to consider if you need custom outfits for your bridesmaids, flower girls and groomsmen.

6.  Hair and Makeup

Every couple wants to look and feel their best on their wedding day. Professional hair and makeup artists aim to make you picture-perfect from every angle. When looking for the ideal professional, consider reviewing client feedback and portfolios. Talk to previous clients to get a sense of their work ethics.

7.  Caterer

Food is something your guests will look forward to on your wedding day. If your venue doesn’t have an in-house caterer, you’ll need to hire a third-party vendor. Work with someone who has experience in your desired cuisine and menu. The ideal professional should cater to your needs and offer a food-tasting experience.

8.  Rental Company

While a venue like a restaurant or reception hall may have most of what you need, some couples may need to find a vendor to supply things like tables, chairs and place settings. For an outdoor ceremony, you may need tents, flooring, heaters or air conditioning. This can also be the case for couples having their ceremony at home. Many rental companies have wedding packages that can provide all of the supplies from one source.

9.  Florist

Flowers are a crucial part of your wedding. You’ll need bouquets, centerpieces, boutonnieres, ceremony decor and reception floral arrangements to transform your venue into a dreamy place. The average cost of florals in 2023 was $2,200, but this varies depending on your desired blooms.

10. Officiant

This person is vital in your wedding ceremony. Check with your religious institution if you have one and choose a legally authorized officiant who can lead your ceremony. Book them as soon as possible to ensure they can officiate on your wedding day.

11. Baker

A wedding cake is a focal point of your reception’s decor. Plus, it’s something guests look forward to eating. Look for a vendor who can actualize your dream cake. Schedule your tasting a few months before tying the knot to ensure your cake tastes great.

12. Musicians

Live musicians, such as bands, singers or DJs, help set the tone for your reception. Consider hiring a pianist, harpist or violinist to play music for your ceremony and a DJ or live band for your reception. As with any potential vendor, check for reviews before booking them.

13. Artists

Consider hiring a graphic designer and a live wedding painter. A designer can help create your invitation and website so you have helpful guides for your guests. A painter creates professional artwork depicting a specific moment. Consider hiring one if you want a unique keepsake after your big day.

Hire the Best Vendors

Your wedding deserves the best, so you should invest in the right people who stand out in their respective industries. Make sure to read reviews and communicate your vision before making agreements with any vendor. They will play a big part in making your big day memorable and special.