by James Quetzal

Created on: November 29, 2009

Despite tough economic times, the wedding industry continues to thrive because couples still want their dream weddings and will do whatever it takes to make that dream come true. However, you should still be organized and ready to negotiate with your wedding vendors so that you do not get taken advantage of. These vendors include your photographer, caterer, disk jockey, florist or anyone providing a specialized service for your wedding.

The first thing you must do is be prepared to stand up for yourself. Negotiating is not easy; if it was then everyone would get their way all the time. In order to negotiate and get what you deserve, you must be willing to speak up. This is not the time to be worried about what others think of you. This is the time for you to decide what you want and not give up until you are satisfied.

The best way to prepare is to do your homework. The only way you can present yourself as knowledgeable and sure of what you want, is by having back-up. Before you can begin negotiating with a potential vendor, know what their pricing is, how much you are willing to spend and bargaining tactics on how to get the most for your money. Make notes if you need to and bring them with you to your meetings.

Another characteristic of a reasonable negotiator is that they don't make demands but ask questions instead. You are more likely to get your way if you ask the right questions. For example, if you demand a certain price from your florist, they will be unlikely to drop the cost. But if you ask what the packages include, inquire about any wedding discounts and see what else they might be willing to offer, you could develop a trusting relationship with this vendor and save money at the same time.

Even though you may be emotional throughout the planning process, don't take things personally and try not to show too much emotion. Making a deal is not about you, it's about your ability to negotiate the best deal for you and your wedding day. The vendor is not charging you more because they don't like you, it is because you are a bride and they most likely deal with all brides the same way.

Be patient and explain what you are looking for and what you expect from them so that you get the attention you deserve without whining, complaining or begging. Negotiating can be tough, especially when you are looking to cut costs without sacrificing your dreams. But if you are prepared, confident and persistent, you can have the wedding you always dreamed about and even have extra money to spend on the honeymoon!

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