Planning a wedding is a team sport, and your vendors are the players who bring it all to life. From your photographer capturing the magic to your caterer keeping guests happily fed, each vendor plays a crucial role in making your day unforgettable. But what happens when you inherit vendors—whether it’s because your venue has a preferred list, your partner’s family has recommendations, or you’re blending plans that were already in motion?
Inheriting vendors doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a team that doesn’t fit your vision. In fact, it’s an opportunity to create a dream team of wedding pros who will support your day and bring your ideas to life. Here’s how to make it work.
First, let’s talk about what it means to inherit vendors. Sometimes, your venue will come with a list of preferred professionals they’ve worked with before. Other times, family or friends may insist you work with someone they know or love. While this can feel like your choices are being narrowed, the truth is it’s a starting point—not a limitation.
The first step is to approach the situation with an open mind. Just because a vendor wasn’t your first pick doesn’t mean they’re not a great fit. Venues often recommend vendors for good reasons—experience with the space, reliability, and a proven ability to deliver. That being said, this is still your day, and your voice matters. If you have concerns about any inherited vendors, don’t hesitate to bring them up.
Communication is key when working with inherited vendors. Start by introducing yourself and sharing your vision for the day. This is your opportunity to align on expectations and get a sense of how well they’ll collaborate with you (and your planner). A great vendor will take the time to listen to your ideas and show you how they can bring them to life within their expertise.
It’s also helpful to lean on your wedding planner here. We know how to navigate these conversations, ask the right questions, and ensure the vendor team is working cohesively. A big part of our job is making sure every player on your wedding team understands the vision and is on the same page—whether they were your first choice or inherited from a recommendation list.
Another thing to keep in mind is the importance of chemistry. Even if a vendor comes highly recommended, they still need to feel like the right fit for you. When you meet with them, trust your instincts. Do they seem enthusiastic about your ideas? Are they clear and transparent in their communication? Can you see yourself trusting them to execute on your big day? If something feels off, it’s okay to have an honest conversation about moving in a different direction.
The beauty of inheriting vendors is that it gives you a foundation to build on. Instead of starting from scratch, you have a team of professionals with experience and expertise ready to step in and make your day incredible. With clear communication, a little flexibility, and the right leadership, you can turn that foundation into a dream team that works seamlessly together.
At the end of the day, your vendors are here to support you. Whether you hand-pick each one or inherit part of your team, the goal is the same: to create a day that feels like a true reflection of your love story. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, build the team, and make some magic happen.
And remember, you’re not alone in this. Your planner is here to navigate every detail, every conversation, and every decision so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your day to the fullest. Let’s build that dream team together!
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