Choosing the people that are going to help make your day the best day of your life is very important. Who will arrange the flowers? Who will take the photos? Who will serve food and drinks to you and your guests? With so many options—and so many of these being quality options—available on the wedding scene nowadays, it’s almost impossible to make decisions about vendors. Here are a few tips and hints we have for you to help lessen the burden and make it a fun experience.

Scope out what you already know you love. If you fell in love with the flowers and décor at your best friend’s wedding, be sure to collect details about the vendors she worked with to make it all happen. Don’t make any big decisions right away, but have these businesses on your preferred list if you loved their work.

Begin researching early. The earlier you begin looking at different vendors and what they offer, the sooner you can start the process of choosing one. Look at their websites, blogs, and anything else they use to promote their business. Make sure to take time to also consider the vendors you loved so much from a previous wedding you attended. Often, many people refer you to different vendors also. Don’t blow them off completely; take these options into consideration while you’re conducting your research. The best fit is found through connections through friends and family most of the time!

Look at specific samples of their work. If this vendor is new to you and you haven’t seen any of their work in person, try to work out a way to do so. For example, if a caterer is going to be working a friend or family member’s event, try to sneak in so you can critique their performance. Pay attention to how the photographers interact with the couple and guests at a friend’s wedding, and notice where they stand during the ceremony and reception. They shouldn’t just deliver high quality work, but you should also have good chemistry with them as well. This will lead to good communication, and ultimately, a flawless event!

Have a trial run. After you see their work live, narrow down the group to your top 2 or 3 choices. Then, schedule a trial run. For example; set up a cake tasting, food tasting, have a bouquet arranged, etc. After you do this, you’ll be able to see if the vendor fits your specific tastes.

Double check your budget. After you have seen what you like and what you don’t like, make sure to keep your budget bright in the back of your mind. You want to stick to the numbers without sacrificing quality. So, if you have two top florists you’re considering, go with the company that will fit your budget best.

It can be overwhelming to make vendor decisions, but if you follow these steps, you’ll not only realize and pinpoint your style, but you’ll find the right fit to make that style come to life. Keep calm and plan on soldiers!