Preferred Vendor Lists

What exactly is a preferred vendor list? Who has them? And how will it affect my wedding?
I get asked these questions ALL the time! So it only seems appropriate that I address them.

What exactly is a preferred vendor list?
Preferred vendor lists can be many things.. Most importantly, it is a list that an event planner "works off of" to recommend their clients to.

How does a vendor "get" on a vendor list?
Theoretically, they should be on the "list" because they are the best value for their dollar. Notice, I did not say the "C" word (cheap) as I can't stand that word. This is all about a value. For me, I do not have a "list" that someone can just merely be added to. The vendor needs to have either worked with me or have an outstanding reputation in the industry (and yes, all event people "talk" so we do know what everyone is up to. Although we take the "talk" with a "grain of salt", do know that if you start hearing the same bad things over and over again, one "grain of salt" must be "true"). Therefore, it is not appealing to risky my reputation on that.). You would be shocked at hte number of phone calls that come into our office asking "how do I get on your list". Well, since it is a common question, and we are not "selling space" on our "list", the best thing for you to do is your job, do it WELL, work hard, be prompt, don't abuse the system and your business will prosper.

How will th vendor list affect my wedding?
If your consultant/planner/vendor personally recommends other vendors, do understand that person is willing to put their repuation on the line. Being that weddings and events are a one shot deal (well in most cases), a bad recommendation can ruin the wedding and put the recommender in a very uncomfortable position. Therefore, everyone will guard the "list" very closely. Do understand that if a consultant is operating their business on a "kick back" premise, (this means they are getting paid by the client and then "skimming off the top" of the vendor), the list might not be in your best interest becuase you are being taken to vendors who are paying for the recommendation. This will not allow you to get hte best value for your dollar so you will want to keep a heads up on that issue.

Quote of the Blog
If I take care of my character, my reputation will take care of itself"~ Dwight L. Moody

Until next time~
Amy