Let's get real
Wedding planning is a whirlwind of excitement, Pinterest boards, and…endless scrolling. Platforms like Zola and WeddingWire can feel like a lifesaver, a one-stop shop for finding all your vendors. And they are incredibly useful for discovery! But there's a little secret about these platforms that I, as a wedding photographer, want to share – something that can make a big difference for the small businesses that make weddings so special.
Let's be clear: these websites are fantastic for browsing. Seriously, where else can you see so many talented photographers, DJs, florists, and cake bakers all in one place? It's a great way to get inspired and explore your options. The challenge arises, though, when couples rely solely on the platform to make those initial connections. It's not that there's anything wrong with using the platform, but there's a better way – a way that can be much more supportive of the vendors you ultimately choose.
Here's the inside scoop: many vendors have a love-hate relationship with these wedding websites. They know they need to be there to be seen, but the platforms can come with some frustrations. It's kind of like being at a party – you want to be where the people are, but sometimes it can be a bit… complicated.
One common issue is the struggle to connect with genuine couples. Vendors often pay to be listed, hoping to connect with couples who are truly interested in booking. But sometimes, the inquiries they receive aren't quite what they seem. Think about it – how many times have you filled out a contact form just to get a price quote and then never followed up? It happens! And for vendors, these "leads" can be time-consuming and sometimes even misleading. It's not that anyone is doing anything intentionally wrong, but it's just the nature of the platform.
Another thing to consider is the cost. These platforms often operate on a tiered system. Vendors might pay to be listed, but then have to pay more to be featured prominently or even to see the contact information of couples who have shown interest. This can put smaller businesses at a disadvantage. It's like trying to get your voice heard in a crowded room – sometimes you need to shout a little louder (and that can cost money).
So, what's the best way to navigate all of this? It's actually pretty simple: use the platforms to find vendors, but then reach out to them directly.
Here's the game plan:
- Explore and discover: Browse profiles, check out photos, and read reviews. Find vendors who genuinely resonate with you.
- Find their website: Most vendors have their own websites. This is where you'll find the most up-to-date information, more photos, and – most importantly – their contact details.
- Reach out directly: Email or call them! This is the best way to start a conversation. It shows you're genuinely interested, and it cuts out the middleman.
- Give them a heads up: Let them know you found them on Zola/WeddingWire (or wherever). This helps them track where their inquiries are coming from.
By taking these few extra steps, you're not only potentially saving yourself some money (sometimes vendors offer discounts for direct bookings), but you're also showing vendors that you value their work and are genuinely interested in connecting with them. It's a win-win!
Wedding planning can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be stressful for your vendors too. A little bit of direct communication can go a long way in supporting the talented people who are working hard to make your wedding dreams a reality. Let's choose connection over convenience and celebrate the amazing vendors who make weddings so special.
Why are vendors still on wedding websites?
Many wedding vendors find themselves listed on wedding websites, sometimes without their explicit consent. While this can provide some level of free advertising and potential leads, it also comes with potential drawbacks. Some vendors may find it difficult to remove their listings, especially if the website has a policy of only removing businesses under certain circumstances, such as closure or rebranding. Even if removal is possible, some vendors choose to maintain their presence on these platforms solely for the reviews they've accumulated. Positive reviews are invaluable social proof, and deleting a listing could mean losing those valuable testimonials. Additionally, vendors may be concerned about the accuracy of their listing information or the way reviews are displayed. While reviews can be a valuable tool for attracting new clients, they can also be a source of frustration if they are unfairly negative or difficult to dispute. Ultimately, whether or not a vendor chooses to remain on a wedding website is a complex decision that depends on a variety of factors, including the website's policies, the vendor's marketing strategy, and their overall satisfaction with the platform, with the power of accumulated reviews often playing a significant role.
