What Your Vendors Wish You Knew Before Your Wedding Day

If your wedding day is a movie, then your vendors are the crew working behind the scenes to make every scene magical. And like any good crew, they’ve seen a lot. From last-minute changes to missing payments to aunties demanding “small chops” before the ceremony starts, they’ve handled it all.

But if they could pull you aside for a quick heart-to-heart before the big day, here’s what they would tell you — gently, lovingly, but honestly.

“Please give us a clear timeline — and stick to it.”

Vendors run on schedules. Photographers need golden hour. Caterers need prep time. DJs need cues. If your event is supposed to start at 2 PM but doesn’t begin till 4 PM (hello, Nigerian time), it throws off the flow — and sometimes, the service quality.

Tip: Work with your coordinator to create a realistic timeline, and share it with all vendors at least a week in advance.

 “We’re not mind readers. Tell us what you want.”

You’d be surprised how many couples assume the decorator knows exactly what “simple and elegant” means. Or expect the photographer to magically know which side is their good side. Or expect the small chops vendor to serve immediately, "small chops" is requested because the vendor needs time to prep and fry, so the "small chops" is served hot

Tip: Be specific. Show examples. Communicate expectations clearly in advance, not on the wedding day, when it’s too late.

“Don’t ghost us. We need confirmations, not silence.”

Late responses, incomplete information, and ghosting after booking slow everything down. Vendors need confirmation on details, setup times, balances, and key contacts, especially in the final week.

Tip: Assign someone (like your coordinator) to handle all vendor communication in the week leading up to your wedding.

“There should only be one decision maker”.

We understand how important your wedding is, not just to you, but to the people who love you. It's natural for mums, sisters, best friends, or even future in-laws to want to be part of the process. And while support is a beautiful thing, too many decision-makers often lead to confusion, delays, and unnecessary stress.

When multiple people are involved — each with different opinions, expectations, or priorities — it becomes harder to move forward, harder to honor your true vision, and much harder to enjoy the process. Tasks take longer to complete. Miscommunications increase. Unfortunately, so does the tension.

Tip: Keep communication direct and streamlined. Vendors work best when they can collaborate directly with one clear point of contact — someone who can confidently make decisions, communicate preferences, and speak for the couple.

“Please feed us. We’ve been working since morning.”

Most vendors spend 8–12 hours (or more!) on their feet. Hungry vendors are tired vendors. And tired vendors don’t perform at their best.

Tip: Ask your caterer to prepare vendor meals — nothing fancy, just something to keep them going. You’ll get better service in return.

“Trust us. This is not our first wedding.”

Sometimes, couples micromanage every step. But when you hire a professional, let them do what they do best. Photographers know angles. DJs know how to read the room. Coordinators know how to save the day — quietly.

Tip: Be collaborative, not controlling. Give direction, then step back and let your team shine.

 “A little appreciation goes a long way.”

Vendors work hard to make your day perfect, through heat, delays, and family drama. A simple thank-you, shout-out, or tag on social media can mean a lot.

Tip: If you love their service, say so! Referrals and testimonials help vendors grow.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding is your special day, but it’s also a massive collaboration. Treat your vendors as partners, communicate clearly, and trust their expertise. The result? A smoother, happier, and more unforgettable celebration.

If you need help pulling everything (and everyone) together, that’s what Elle Wedding Services is here for.

Need coordination? Let’s chat... Your vendors will thank you, and so will your future self.