Today’s blog post is brought to you in collaboration with Vermont Wedding photographer Colette Kulig Photography.
There’s a lot to take in when planning a wedding. Between social media algorithms, Pinterest boards, and the endless sea of “must-haves,” it’s easy to lose sight of what you actually want and what you actually connect with.
Here’s the truth: Not all that glitters is gold. You can stay grounded by planning with intention and start by knowing your own values.
So, how do you find vendors who align with your values and your vision?
Start with two deceptively simple words: Why and How.
Ask: Why Do You Do This?
This question might seem small, but it’s everything. Why does your florist design weddings? Why did your photographer pick up a camera? What is your planner’s favorite part of every wedding day?
When you ask vendors about their “why,” you get insight into what fuels them. You’ll hear the difference between someone chasing trends and someone deeply committed to their craft. Passion is easy to spot once you ask. And it’s often more important than price or portfolio.
Ask: How Do You Work?
The how reveals just as much. How do they approach communication? How do they plan and prepare? How do they handle surprises, emotions, and timelines?
Understanding the process (not just the final product) gives you a feel for what working together will actually be like. Do they prioritize collaboration? Do they educate and guide? Do they leave space for your individuality, or expect you to fit a mold?
What Does "Fit" Really Mean?
“Fit” is more than budget and availability. True fit is about feeling seen, heard, and understood.
Are your vendors listening to your ideas? Are they asking good questions? Do they make you feel calm, excited, and supported, or do you sense pressure to be someone you’re not?
The right vendors won’t just execute a style, they’ll honor your story.
Social Media Influence vs. Real Connection
The wedding world is saturated with curated images and viral reels. While inspiration can be fun to look at and helpful, it can also distract you from what really matters.
Ask yourself: Are you drawn to someone’s work because it looks trendy or because it makes you feel something real?
Connection can’t be faked. And when your wedding day comes, it’s the trust and relationship with your team that will matter most. Not whether their Instagram grid is perfect.
Reclaiming Intention: What Actually Matters to You?
Your wedding is a reflection of your relationship. That means it should feel like you.
Take the time to reflect: What do you want to remember? What moments matter most? What kind of energy do you want around you that day? What are your non-negotiables at the end of the day?
Choosing vendors who share your values and bring out your best is one of the most powerful ways to protect the spirit of your wedding. Don’t be afraid to ask deeper questions. In fact, insist on it.
Because the best vendors won’t just serve your event, they’ll support your vision.
Learn More About Colette Kulig Photography
If you are planning a backyard wedding or a full weekend celebration, remember this: It’s not about keeping up. It’s about staying close to what matters.
Let your choices reflect your story and not the algorithm.
A very special thank you to Vermont Wedding photographer Colette Kulig Photography for sharing her expert advice in this blog post!
Colette is a wedding photographer who captures gorgeous images and crafts bespoke albums that couples treasure for years to come. Her style is a mix of advertising and portraiture, creating a modern collection, and her warm personality puts couples at ease. You can learn more about Colette and her work by visiting her Vendor Profile in the Vermont Weddings Vendor Guide.