Ep 21 • DMV Wedding Vendor Roundtable Recap: Vendors Collaborating for a Better Client Experience

What happens when 130+ wedding vendors come together to discuss the real challenges facing the industry?

In this episode of Weddings Unscripted, we share insights from our experience moderating a groundbreaking vendor roundtable at Stone Tower Winery. Hosted by Kate Denman of Floret and Vine and Lisa Harvard, this collaborative discussion tackled everything from client expectations and ghosting to budget education and the changing wedding market.

From AI-generated inspiration photos that defy physics to the hidden complexities behind "simple" requests, we reveal the behind-the-scenes realities that shape your wedding day experience. Whether you're planning your big day, considering a career in weddings, or simply curious about what goes on behind the curtain, this episode offers valuable perspective on vendor collaboration and the evolving wedding landscape.

What we discuss:

[00:02:00] – The vendor roundtable experience at Stone Tower Winery

[00:03:00] – Budget reality checks: When venues eat up your entire budget

[00:06:00] – Market shifts: From Reddit leads to ChatGPT recommendations

[00:09:00] – Client expectations vs. reality: The AI inspiration photo problem

[00:16:00] – Social media dreams vs. actual budgets

[00:22:00] – Budget planning before you spend a dime

[00:28:00] – Timeline management and vendor communication

[00:34:00] – The ghosting phenomenon and how to handle it better

[00:37:00] – Feedback culture: Why rejection without reasons hurts everyone

Key Takeaways:

• Budget first, venue second: Establish your total budget and priorities before booking any vendors to avoid overspending on your venue
• AI inspiration needs reality checks: Those Pinterest-perfect photos might require rigging points, special permits, and significant labor costs
• Vendor communication is crucial: Sound checks, setup schedules, and timeline coordination prevent day-of conflicts
• The market is transitioning: Post-COVID pricing adjustments and new client discovery methods are reshaping the industry

Ready to plan your dream wedding with realistic expectations? Connect with experienced vendors who prioritize communication and collaboration for a stress-free planning process.

Connect with us:

Visit our website: www.weddingsunscripted.com

Cherry Blossom Weddings & Events: www.cherryblossomwe.com

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