According to The Knot, it’s worth negotiating with even the hottest vendor in town, especially if there’s a good reason: like having the wedding on a less-popular Friday night. Here are some more crucial pointers:
Know the market
Find out what other vendors offer for the same price point, and use this as leverage. Ask about every single thing that’s included in your package. Then find out in advance what extras are going to cost — and whether those costs can be waived.
Stick to your limit
A vendor may be willing to cut you a deal as long as you agree to something additional — for example, he might consent to give you an extra hour of shooting, but only if you have him take your engagement photos. What you need to ask yourself is whether this will actually cost you more in the end.
Adopt a friendly but firm demeanor
There’s no harm in for a deal… if you do it politely! If vendors feel positive about working with you, they may be more willing to come up with creative solutions.
Be indifferent
You need the vendor to believe that if he or she won’t meet your offer you will walk away. Consider collaborating with your fiance to employ the old good-cop-bad-cop routine.
Practice makes perfect
Try your hand negotiating at a flea market to see what talking style works for you.
Visit The Knot for more wedding planning ideas.
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