You're Engaged. How do I pick my vendors?

Congratulations! You are just engaged and have no idea where to start? Don't be scared, thats normal. 'Tis the season for engagements and for brides to start planning. This thought can drive many women insane...but just relax, think before you act and try to savor these months before your nuptials. Here are a few fool proof tips to help you pick the perfect vendors for your joyous day.

1. Do a bit of research...and if a vendor's price seems too good to be true. It probably is. Or the product is not "the same" for half of the price. In the wedding world, you pay for what you get. So if vendors A, B and C are $1000.00 ask yourself why vendor D is only $500.00. A few extra dollars in your wallet now can cost you in the long run.

Now, don't think you can't save money in certain places...but there are 2 things you absolutely don't want to skimp on. First, photography...all you have after your day is over are those amazing pictures. Second, food...Trust me, your guests will remember if your chicken was dry or if they left your event hungry. Ask vendors for recommendations...when you hear the same name over and over again, maybe it's a great vendor for you to chat with as well.

2. Slow response time when you are a new client inquiring about services means slow response time throughout the entire process. Be realistic with your expectations, if you call or email a vendor on Friday during peak wedding season, they might not call you back until Monday (which is ok). But, if you call on Monday and haven't heard back by the following Monday, i'd be leery about how their entire communication process will work. You deserve to be treated as a vendors only client, from day one.

3. Read Reviews...ask to talk to past clients...and if a vendor doesn't allow you to do that, then they aren't a vendor for you. Here is the thing: 1 bad review could mean that the vendor and client just didn't mesh, but if there are multiple bad client reviews, proceed cautiously. There are many great resources now out there for you to find out what other brides are saying about your "must have" vendors. Sites like WeddingWire and TheKnot offer the opportunity for past brides to comment on current vendors. Now...here is the warning. If you can not find a review anywhere, the vendor won't allow you to talk to previous clients and they are slow to respond: FIND A NEW VENDOR.

If you hear bad buzz about a vendor from other wedding vendors...listen. They are trying to make not only your day,but your planning process as stress free as possible...