As you may have begun to realize, planning a wedding requires many moving parts and a long to-do list. However, securing your vendors is one of the most critical aspects of planning your big day. Without a strong team of vendors supporting you, your Nashville wedding day can quickly become overwhelming. Each vendor will be a critical part of your team, from photographers to florists, ensuring your wedding day is everything you’ve dreamed of. But the most vital question is when you should book them. As a Nashville wedding photographer, I’ve created a timeframe to help. While every wedding differs, this timeline should help you lock in your favorites before they’re booked!

12+ Months Before Your Nashville Wedding – Venue, Photographer & Videographer

Your venue, photographer, and videographer are at the very top of your list of wedding vendors to book right off the bat. These vendors’ availability quickly fills up, especially during peak wedding months. Booking your venue helps set the overall vibe for your wedding. Ensuring you’ve secured this vendor early will help you get your desired date and location. Regarding your photographer and videographer, we often receive multiple inquiries about the exact dates (especially during peak wedding months, specifically October). If you have your heart set on a specific photography team, reach out as soon as possible to ensure they can be there for your big day.

8-10 Months Before Book These Wedding Vendors – Florist & Hair/Makeup Artist

We will start widening our search once your major vendors are locked in. Begin the hunt for the perfect florist and beauty team. Many florists only take certain events per season to ensure the best quality florals. Reaching out early is a great way to ensure you get the floral designer of your dreams! Hair & makeup artists book quickly, especially on the weekends. Contact them early if you’re planning a weekend wedding during peak wedding months! If you want a trial run before your big day, scheduling early is key to ensure they have availability for both your wedding day and a practice run.

6-8 Months Before – Catering & Wedding Planner

If you’re considering a full-service planner, consider booking them earlier. Often, these wedding vendors will have lists of vendors they regularly work with, thus creating less stress for you and your partner! You may not be looking for a full-service wedding planner, but as a day-of-coordinator, now is a great time to start reaching out and booking. If your venue doesn’t include catering, you’ll want to nail down your caterer about this time. The key to ensuring you secure your dream team of vendors is to book early. Go into your consultations with a specific date so vendors can get you on their books.

4-6 Months Before Book Your Music Wedding Vendors

Last on my list of wedding vendors to book is your entertainment. These vendors play a huge role in creating a fun and exciting atmosphere for your wedding day. Whether you’re interested in a live band or DJ, the most sought-after vendors can book months in advance. If you’ve found the perfect entertainer for your event, don’t hesitate to reach out and book them early.

While planning your wedding can be much work, it’s always worth it. Booking your wedding vendors promptly helps ensure a smooth and stress-free wedding day experience. If you’re looking for more guidance for wedding planning, head back to my blog, where I share tips and tricks to help along the way.

Are you ready to book your Nashville wedding photographer for your big day? Send me a message!