Congratulations engaged one! Now comes the fun part - bringing your wedding vision to life in Indianapolis! But between venue tours and cake tastings lies a key task: curating your vendor dream team.

Before the vendor hunt begins, get crystal clear on your wedding style. What overall vibe do you want - a chic hotel ballroom or a more intimate wedding? Defining your vision first makes it easier to find pros who are the right fit.

Set Your Budget Baselines

Budgeting is not the most glamorous part of wedding planning, but it’s certainly one of the most crucial. Have a clear understanding of what you're willing to spend and allocate it wisely. Remember, it's about finding a balance between your dream wedding and your financial comfort zone.

Book a Wedding Planner First

Often overlooked, the first vendor you should book is your wedding planner. A good planner, is the maestro of your wedding symphony. They have the experience, connections, and know-how to bring your vision to life while keeping things on track and within budget. For example, here at Altar’D Weddings & Design, we help our couples narrow down their wedding style and help them book the best-matched vendors.

Lock in Key Players

With your planner in place, tackle key categories next, like wedding venue, catering and photography - the heavy hitters that set the stage for your whole day.

Venue: Setting the Stage

Your venue sets the tone for your entire wedding. It's not just a location; it’s the backdrop of your photos, the space that hosts your loved ones, and a significant chunk of your budget. Choose a venue that aligns with your style and can comfortably accommodate your guest list.

If you need help choosing your venue, check out our blog post, Unique Indianapolis Wedding Venues.

Catering: Delighting the Senses

Indianapolis boasts a diverse culinary scene, and your wedding menu should be a reflection of that. Whether it's a formal sit-down dinner or a casual buffet, your caterer should understand your taste and dietary requirements. Don't forget to schedule tastings!

Photography and Videography: Capturing Memories

Your wedding day will fly by, but your photos and videos will last a lifetime. Choose a photographer and videographer whose style matches your vision. Whether it's candid and casual or formal and posed, these vendors will capture the essence of your day. With an experienced wedding planner, this process can be so much smoother.

Music: Setting the Tone

The right music can elevate the mood of your wedding. Whether it’s a DJ who can keep the dance floor packed or a live band that brings a unique flair, ensure they understand the atmosphere you want to create.

Florals and Decor: Bringing Your Vision to Life

Flowers and decor are the visual highlights of your wedding. From bouquets to centerpieces, these elements should complement your theme and color scheme. Indianapolis has many talented florists who can bring your floral dreams to life.

Hair and Makeup: Looking Your Best

You want to look and feel your best on your wedding day. Professional hair and makeup artists can ensure that you look picture-perfect throughout the day. Do trials to make sure their style aligns with yours.

Transportation: Arrive in Style

Whether it’s a limo, a vintage car, or a horse-drawn carriage, how you arrive and depart can be a memorable part of your day. Ensure the transportation aligns with your overall wedding style and is reliable.

Finally, Trust Your Instincts

After all the consultations and tastings, trust your gut. You should feel comfortable and confident with your vendor choices. They are, after all, the people who will bring your wedding day to life.

We at Altar’D Weddings & Design will tell you that the key to a successful wedding is not just in the details but in the team you choose to bring those details together. Check our availability today.

Booking Wedding Vendors Check List

Establish your budget and guest list.

Book your wedding planner and venue.
Consider an engagement photoshoot for save-the-dates.

Months 15-13: Booking Key Vendors

Secure your caterer, photographer, videographer, and entertainment (DJ or band).

Months 12-10: Defining Your Style

Choose and book your florist and decorator.
Start your wedding dress shopping adventure.

Months 9-7: Tending to the Details

Book hair and makeup artists and decide on your transportation.
Enjoy cake tasting and place your order.

Months 6-4: Adding the Finishing Touches

Order your stationery and book your officiant.
If desired, arrange for additional vendors like photo booths.

Months 3-2: Finalizing Plans

Confirm all menus and floral designs.
Purchase or finalize your wedding bands and schedule dress fittings.

Month 1: The Final Details

Confirm all vendor details and finalize seating charts and itineraries. Let us handle all of the above so you can have a stress free wedding!

A Modern Guide to Booking Wedding Vendors in Indianapolis