Understand What You Pay For... Savvy Brides Do Their Homework

While we encourage you to stay within budget, this also means understanding that you're going to get what you pay for. 

The price for any vendor in the wedding industry is generally balanced on a few things: experience, product quality and demand.   

• Experience in the field - A photographer just starting their career will most certainly charge a lower price than someone who has 20 years experience and has an established and highly credited business.  If you're looking to hire a photographer or other vendor just starting out, do your homework to check their portfolio or get references.  They can be very talented starting out - but it's better to be safe than sorry!
• Quality in product - such as food will also result in a price differential.  A 5 course French cuisine meal prepared by experienced culinary artist will demand a higher price than a buffet option.  How much of this aspect impacts the image of your "perfect wedding"?  How does this compare to other items in your budget? 
• Demand during the peak of wedding season will result in higher pricing for almost every vendor, while off-season dates will result in lower prices.  Friday nights and Sundays are another area for savings.  This may give you more options and choices to hire the perfect vendor - whether it be a reception site or a videographer or local vendor in between.

Keep these factors in mind when planning your budget and when it comes to searching for a vendor in this price range - you'll be prepared to find what you're looking for.