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8 Ways to Support Your Vendors

By Rebecca Padgett

Planning or having a wedding in 2020 has proven to be more stressful than ever. Many couples have had to change plans and drastically alter the vision they had in mind for their wedding. At times you might feel alone in this process, yet there are those that can closely relate — your vendors. 

As you replan one wedding, they are the heroes helping to reschedule and reorganize multiple weddings at the same time. Not only are they assisting couples during hard times, but they also are facing their own hardships while doing so. Many vendor’s finances and lives have been deeply impacted by the effects of COVID-19. 

During this time of uncertainty, there are many ways you can support the vendors that have supported you, your significant other and your wedding day wishes. No matter how large or small the gesture is, expressing your gratitude will always be greatly appreciated and taken to heart. 

  1. Show Them Love on Social Media

Many vendors gain a lot of traction from social media and are discovered there by clients. If you’re wedding planning, post it to your story and tag your vendors. Post engagement photos and tag the photographer. Share the posts that your vendors post on their accounts. Any amount of sharing can only help. Engage with their social media pages by liking and commenting on their posts. Tag friends who may be interested in their services. Social media connects us all from near and far while providing information and potential for business. 

  1. Leave Reviews

You don’t have to wait until the wedding to post your feedback. Post about the initial experience and how they have helped you so far. Explain why you chose this vendor and how they have worked with you as plans have changed. Simply say how excited you are to be working together on your future wedding day. If you’ve already been married, leave that review already! Reviews are often key in securing new clients and future business. 

  1. Stay Consistent with Payments

Payments are keeping these businesses afloat during these questionable financial times. Keeping consistent and on time with your payments is essential now more than ever. If you too have experienced financial stress and can’t pay the full amount, inquire about a payment plan or reduced rate. If you are financially able and willing, pay a bit more on your next bill. Helping your vendor now will ensure their success for the future. 

  1. Send A Thank You

Our vendors can never be thanked enough, and a token of thanks can go a long way and mean the world to your service provider. A thank you card expressing your gratitude is always a welcome sentiment. For some extra love, send them a gift card or product from a local restaurant, gift shop or service provider that they love. Fresh flowers always brighten a day, especially in the wedding industry. 

Photo by Alicia Osborne
  1. Refer People 

Whether it’s a recently engaged friend or someone you know who lost their original vendors due to rescheduling conflicts, now is an optimal time to refer your friends to the vendors you love and trust.

  1. Support Them Now

Many caterers double as restaurants or have expanded to offer delivery services. Florists are still making floral deliveries. Bridal clothing shops deliver or offer online shopping. Think of ways you can support your vendors now, whether that is purchasing a gift card, buying a product, giving a monetary donation, gifting a service to a friend or ordering online. 

  1. Communicate

Whether it’s words of encouragement or worries, keep in contact with your vendors. During this time, a simple email or text expressing your thanks or excitement will be a welcome sight for businesses facing today’s issues. You should also keep them informed of any concerns you have so you are able to work ahead and they are not blindsided. 

  1. Be Understanding 

Remind yourself that your vendors are balancing a lot right now: multiple clients, rescheduled dates, cancellations and worries about finances and the future of their company — all on top of their lives outside of their careers. Be cognizant of the need to be flexible, patient and understanding. Practice patience and flexibility during this time. Be understanding of delayed response times, uncertain answers and the need to compromise.

 

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