How far in advance should I begin to look for my wedding professionals for my wedding day?
For Wedding Professionals in Categories such as Photography or Disc Jockey, there are companies that we might have to place in a sort of must have status. This based on their popularity with prominent wedding venues and word of mouth from very happy former Brides & Grooms that are telling everyone they know how that wedding professional made their wedding day. Generally to be in the running to obtain these kinds of services, you should be inquiring about their availability 15 months or more before your wedding day. Generally we are speaking about the most popular 5 Photographers & 5 Disc Jockeys in your area. Don't forget you can plan on those must haves receiving another 10 to 20 inquiries for that same day as you by other Bride & Grooms. They are that good and everyone wants an Amazing Wedding Reception.
You then go to the next tier of wedding professional that is also very talented and that does a super job. 12 months out. Maybe not as popular as the must haves but yet incredible talents. There will be another 5 to 10 of these in each category, pending on location, company changes, relocation, etc. They too will receive another say 5-7 inquiries for that same date.Still very popular and in demand. Very Successful and you will have a great wedding day.
The next tier usually drops off a bit more and it gets iffy here. Doesn't mean bad, it just is`more chancy.You can usually obtain them in the time frame that most publications tell you start looking, 9 months out. Remember we are already looking at least 15 other Brides trying to obtain the services of the Top 7-10 Professionals.This tier of Professional might save you a few Dollars and based on the time of the year and how popular your weekend is, might have to do. But also might ... and might ... an might ... and you might have a nice wedding. Might means worry and it might not be worth it. The next tier ... just hire a friend.
Last update on 10/30/2009 by Dan Cavanaugh.
