How to Negotiate for a Wedding
When negotiating prices with wedding vendors, a friendly demeanor can go a long way, as if the vendor likes you, he may be more likely to give you a better deal. However, it's also important to balance friendliness with firmness. You want to avoid taking the first offer that you are presented with. Even if your vendor won't meet your exact price, it's good to compromise within reason, especially if the vendor is willing to throw in extra perks.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Research average wedding costs for caterers, venues, DJs, bands, cake decorators and anything else you may need. Be realistic about pricing when it comes to the services provided. DJs may be less expensive than bands, but if a band is what you have your mind set on, be prepared to pay the extra money.
-
2
Set a wedding budget and stick to it. You may have to make compromises, but a budget will allow you to be more firm in your negotiations. You will also feel better about your purchases if you keep your spending within a set limit.
-
-
3
Practice negotiating in other situations before you start your wedding negotiations. Negotiate small matters with family, friends or in appropriate shopping situations, such as at garage sales or flea markets.
-
4
Prepare a backup option for every element of your wedding. This way you will actually be indifferent, which will prove to the service provider that you are willing to pay for another vendor's services if he is unwilling to compromise on price.
-
5
Ask about extra costs that may be included in the service. Sometimes these aren't mentioned during negotiations but are included in the fine print on the contract. If you inquire early on, you may be able to have the fees reduced or even waived.
-
6
Provide the vendor with the highest amount you can pay for his services according to your budget, and stick to it. Remain firm but kind. If he won't budge, end the meeting and move on to the next vendor.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Avoid booking your wedding on popular wedding dates such as on holidays. Certain dates of the year are far more busy for weddings than others, and generally this reflects in the price of service. Vendors are also more likely to pit customers against each other in order to make the most money possible on one of the popular dates.
Book services in advance. If you wait until the last minute, not only will you appear desperate, but you will actually be desperate. Vendors will be aware of this and will be more apt to take advantage of your situation. There may also be extra fees for booking services close to your wedding, as this may put the vendor in a stressful situation.
References
- Photo Credit Wedding 2 image by Joelyn Pullano from Fotolia.com
