We all speak often about how essential effective communication is in our day to day lives – at work, with family/friends and especially in our relationships. But when it comes to weddings, for some reason that notion goes right out the door and that’s the last place it should be! If you want your wedding or special event to end up the way you’ve envisioned it, the only way to make it happen is if you clearly communicate your expectations with ALL your vendors ahead of time. And you know what, over communicate it – repeat yourself several times (3 is usually the magic number) so that everyone understands the vision and is aligned. “But the vendors I’ve hired are the best in the industry and know what they are doing because it’s all they do.” Right??? Wrong. Yes, your vendors may be experienced professionals, but they may have a way of doing things that differ from your expectations. Let’s take photography for example – you may assume that photographers will take lots of pictures of your guests along with capturing your special moments, but in many instances this will not happen. Given how big some weddings get, most photographers forfeit the guests and focus their attention on the newly wedded couple and immediate family. So if you value pictures of old friends that you haven’t seen in years or even a picture of every table during your reception – tell your photographers and videographers to capture those moments and those people or come up with a way to ensure you get these people captured somehow (ie. celebrity wall, photo booths, etc.). Memories may last forever… well sometimes… – but let’s face it, video/pictures last a very long time too ;).
Along with over communicating, it’s essential to write EVERYTHING down. Document every conversation with your vendors (with dates and times) so that you can refer to your notes on their commitments when needed. Some will promise many things to you verbally just so that they can get you to sign on the dotted line, or may just simply forget some details of the many client conversations they have – so it’s important for you to be vigilant and assertive to get what you want.
It’s important to remember that all vendors, no matter who they are, need to be pointed in the right direction so that they can meet (and hopefully exceed) your expectations on your special day – and although they may not want your input on every little detail, make sure you give it so that you get the opportunity to see your vision unfold right before you.
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