Let us down easy

I have heard many brides wonder how to let a vendor know that they are not going to hire them for their wedding. The answer: just tell them!

If you have met with a vendor to find out about their services for your wedding, whether it is a planner, a photographer, a florist or any other vendor, but have decided to go with someone else, please let them know. It is just the nicest thing to do :)   After meeting with a bride, we here at Joyful typically hold their date for a couple of weeks while waiting to hear back from them. If we have not heard anything after a week or two, I will send a little follow up email to see if they are still interested. If I still do not hear anything back a week later, we will release that date.

Some of my brides worry that they will  hurt a vendor's feelings if they tell them they do not want to hire them. Trust me, vendors would much rather hear it from you than to feel like you are ignoring them. Vendors know that sometimes brides click better with other companies or that brides on a budget are looking for the best deal. Either way, a simple email to let them know what you have decided is so very much appreciated. Vendors won't hate you or get upset- it happens all of the time. I know I have much more respect for brides who let me know that they have gone with other options than those who just never get back to me. Even better- I so appreciate it when a bride will tell me why. Whether it is price or just a better personality click, it is helpful for me in reevaluating my business.

All that to say, don't be afraid to be open and honest with vendors. They will love you for it!

**Side note: The Wedding Chicks are at it again! They are giving away magazine subscriptions (Martha Stewart, Brides & Grace Ormande). Grab yours here .