Congratulations! You’re engaged. You’re living on Cloud 9 and can’t wait to start planning. One of your friends suggested you join a local Wedding Vendor Search group on Facebook to help find a caterer, photographer, or local makeup artist.

Your first post: “ISO a photographer for my upcoming wedding. Local to Charlotte, NC.” Suddenly, your notifications have blown up and an hour later you have 252 comments.

I’m here to help you cut down on the comments, unsolicited DMs, and link shares.

Be Specific
It’s very important to include as many details in your post as possible. Being too vague can invite vendors of all service types to insert themselves in your comments. When posting you should be as specific as you can. You should include the desired service, your budget, your date, venue location, and the hours needed. If you’re looking for a creative service such as a Makeup Artist, Photographer, Videographer, or florist, you should also include your desired style (if you know).

Having this information avoids a lot of back and forth and false hope. Depending on how early you are in the wedding planning process, you may not know these specific details. And if you aren’t planning to DIY everything, you should definitely consult a planner.

Examples
Here are some examples of posts that can specify exactly what you’re looking for:

1. ISO wedding photographer local to the Maiden, NC. My wedding will be October 23, 2021 at The Providence Cotton Mill. We have a budget of about $1,500 – $2,500, but willing to discuss package pricing depending on the quality service you offer. Looking for more candid in the moment photos, with traditionally posed photos mixed in for the family. Second Shooter is a must, and we want the first look with bridal party photos taken pre-ceremony. Looking for someone with a warmer / boho editing style. Please send over examples and package details if you are close to this price range and photo style.
2. ISO a makeup artist for my wedding on May 15, 2021 at Big Chill in Charlotte, NC. Need someone for me and my 3 bridesmaids from 10am – 1pm. Looking for someone with experience in creating a more natural look. Budget is $350 – $450. Please send over examples and package details if you are close to this price range.

Avoid the Groups Completely
Providing detailed posts will help to do so, but if you don’t know that information off-hand, I would definitely begin consulting a wedding planner. They can help to solidify details, and they may already have connections with other vendors so you can avoid the Facebook groups altogether.

Wedding industry websites like Zola are also a great way to find vendors in your area. They provide a comprehensive way to search by using filters and a streamlined inquiry system. They’re also a great company to use for your registry, wedding website, and even your invitations!

Time is of the essence when planning a wedding, and we certainly want to avoid miscommunication and unnecessary back and forth. And of course, if you’re looking for a Wedding Photographer in the area, I’d love to chat!