Cutting Costs
The wedding industry is a large one that makes billions of dollars each year. When planning a wedding you will be involving usually 6 to 12 different vendors. These usually include a ceremony site, reception site, photographer, videography, baker, florist, rentals, DJ, dress and tuxedo shops, limo service...and so on. If you are able to negotiate with even half of these vendors you are looking at a massive amount of savings.
At first it may appear that all of these vendors have prices that are set in stone. The two best ways to approach these vendors are by asking for deals and introducing the competition.
1. Ask For A Deal:
Do not be afraid to ask for a discount. If you are spending a large amount of money in one place ask for a certain percentage of the cost to be discounted.
Where does this work best? Apparel vendors, Florists and Limousines. If you have a large bridal party and your all getting your dresses from the same place ask for a deal, start with 20% off it can't hurt. The same goes for mens apparel. Usually the grooms rental will be free or they will offer a discount on all of the rentals. Florists are also really good for offering deals and will sometimes throw things in free of charge. Sit down and make sure you are getting a good deal. Perhaps they will throw in your bouquet or the flower girls baskets. Whatever they can give will help. When you are renting more than one limousine you should expect to see a discount. If not shop around and see what other places are willing to give you.
2. Introduce The Competition:
Threats work. And when a vendor sees that your looking around at their competition they are more likely to cut you a deal. Don't ever let the vendor think that you are sold on them. Make it obvious that you are shopping around and bring the competitions information with you to every appointment you go to. This will help them realize that YES you are comparing them.
Where does this work best? Photographer, Baker, Reception Venues. Photographers will generally try to compete through there pictures but don't be afraid to tell them what you have been offered elsewhere. They will often match or beat it. Bakers are similar to photographers in that they will try and use their cakes to compete but don't be afraid to show them what their competition is offering. Reception Venues are very competitive. This is the best place for you to present your research. Not only will they usually match their competition but they will probably beat them or add more things on to make it worth your money.
By asking for deals and introducing the competition you can save a large amount of money but you can't be afraid to ask. This is how you can negotiate with wedding vendors and get the most bang for your buck!
