Wedding planning is a time filled with so much excitement and love, but also a time filled with stress and coordination. One key to ensuring that your special day goes off without a hitch is having a well-organized vendor checklist. And who better to make that checklist for you than an experienced wedding venue that’s seen it all? Here’s your ultimate guide to navigating the most essential wedding vendors!
1. Wedding Planner or Coordinator
A wedding planner or coordinator can take a bulk of the work and stress off your plate through your wedding planning process. They have firsthand knowledge of the ins and outs of the wedding industry and can guide you along the way. If you’re looking to work with a wedding planner throughout the whole process, then you should book them right after you get engaged. An alternative to booking a full wedding planner or coordinator is to book a month-of coordinator that can help you tie up wedding planning once you’re closest to your big day.
2. Venue and Catering
Arguably the most important detail of your wedding day, the venue and catering need to be booked ASAP. They set the tone for your celebration and determine your actual wedding date based on availability. Food can make or break your wedding experience, and so it’s important to work with a caterer that you love. Many wedding venues, like St. Joseph’s Banquet & Conference Centre in Oakville, have a dedicated and outstanding in-house catering team that can bring your vision to life.
3. Ceremony Space and Officiant
This is the portion of your wedding day where you say “I Do!” You can say your vows at your reception venue or opt for somewhere like a church for the more religiously inclined couples. You also need to consider hiring an officiant or working with your priest to make your ceremony happen. Be sure to discuss any personalizations and vows you’d want to include!
4. Photographer and Videographer
Capturing the magic of your day is absolutely crucial, and so it’s important to make the right decision when it comes to your wedding photographer and videographer. These are the memories you’ll look back on for the rest of your life, so ensure you select a team that you can enjoy working with and whose photography and editing style you love.
5. Florist and Wedding Designer
Flowers add a touch of elegance and personalization to your wedding day. They can help set the mood and vibe of your special day, creating a setting that feels like a perfect representation of you as a couple. Your wedding florist should understand your design vision and should be able to bring it to life within your chosen budget. Your wedding design can also expand past florals, including items like candles, photo backdrops, and signage. A wedding designer can help make sure your wedding looks beautiful.
6. Music and Entertainment
Your wedding reception is the place to celebrate your love and to finally let loose! You can opt for a fun DJ to get the dance floor going, or a live band to bring a classic and timeless touch to your party. You should also consider music for your ceremony, your cocktail hour, and during dinner.
By adhering to this ultimate wedding vendor checklist, you’ll be well on your way to orchestrating a seamless and memorable wedding day. Organize early, stay detailed, and enjoy the journey to your wedding day! And if you’re located in the Toronto or GTA, we’d love to host your wedding here at St. Joseph’s Banquet & Conference Centre. Contact us today to learn about our packages and availability!