You’ve probably heard of the book, How to Win Friends and Influence People. This blog is a bit like that but a much quicker read and perfect for wedding photographers! We are going to talk about some of my top ways that you can win over other wedding vendors, develop great professional relationships, and start getting more vendor referrals!
1. Start the day on the right foot
Wedding days are amazing but also are a lot of work; physically and mentally! Start the day on the right foot by offering to grab coffee for the videographer or bring some extra snacks to share with the DJ. You don’t have to spend a ton of money or feel obligated to do this every time, but it’s a nice gesture to offer drinks or snacks to other vendors! You can also offer to grab them a drink during dinner or grab their meal from the buffet or vendor area and grab them a seat at the table.
2. Be vocal
Make sure to chat with each of the wedding vendors that you’ll be working with throughout the day. Not just small talk though, ask specific questions about how you can help each other! For example, let the videographer know that you’re happy to have the couple repeat anything that you photograph so they can capture it on video! Talk with the DJ and let them know your end time and see if it’s possible to capture the main things like cake cutting and formal dances in a timely manner. Having open conversations with other wedding vendors can help make the day flow better but also let them know that you’re a team player!
3. Be courteous
Although most of us work solo, a wedding day is also about being a team player. All of the wedding vendors are there to make the couple’s wedding day magical! You have to do your job to the best of your abilities but be courteous when you can. Ask if you need to move out of the way for any videographer shots once you’ve taken yours, compliment the hair and makeup team for how great they did, and just overall think of the other wedding vendors as your co-workers for the day! Along with that, stay professional throughout the day. You never want to talk badly about other wedding vendors, the couple, or their wedding day.
4. Take photos
Throughout the day try to take photos of other wedding vendors and their work that you can share with them! It will go a long way with the florist if you send her photos of the bouquets and table settings and the caterer when they have professional photos of the meal to use on social media. Of course it’s also great for your couple to have these photos as well because these are all of the details they chose for their day. After their gallery is complete, share it with all of the vendors, including the venue!
There you have it! Those are a few of my top tips to win over other wedding vendors. Don’t forget those business cards to hand out too!
-Liz
