One of the most important parts of planning a wedding is choosing the right vendors – they create the ambiance, memories, and overall experience that you'll remember for a lifetime. Here are four key tips for making the best decisions and avoiding unpleasant surprises, brought to you by renowned Zadar-based wedding planner Ana Milin.

1. Flowers and Decorations

Decorations create the first impression and set the tone for your wedding. When choosing a florist or decorator:

• Ask for real examples from past weddings – Pinterest photos are inspiring, but not a guarantee of execution.
• Inquire about seasonal flowers – they’re more affordable, readily available, and more weather-resistant.
• Clearly communicate your desired style, colors, and atmosphere (e.g., rustic, elegant, minimalist).
• Check what’s included in the price – delivery, setup, and breakdown may come with additional fees.

2. Music – DJ or Band?

Music is the heart of the celebration. When choosing musicians, consider:

• Their playlist from previous events – this gives you a feel for their style and the vibe they create.
• Plan key musical moments: couple's entrance, first dance, cake cutting, end of the night.
• If your ceremony is outdoors, make sure they have the right equipment – microphones, sound system.
• Ask about overtime charges – parties often run longer than expected!

3. Photographer

Photos are memories that last forever. Choose a photographer who:

• Provides full albums to review – not just a few carefully selected highlights.
• Has a style that suits you: documentary, romantic, classic, artistic.
• Clearly communicates what’s included: number of edited photos, delivery time.
• Lets you know whether they work alone or with an assistant – this affects how many moments are captured.

4. Videographer

A high-quality video brings the day back to life. Pay attention to:

• Full videos from real weddings – not just highlight reels.
• Sound quality – especially important for speeches and the ceremony.
• Agree on the final video length – do you want a 5, 15, or 30-minute film?
• Ask who will actually be filming – is it the person you met or a replacement crew?

BONUS Tips:

• Reviews are helpful, but even better – talk to couples who’ve worked with them.
• If communication is slow or difficult, take it as a warning sign.
• Everything should be in a written contract – verbal agreements can easily be forgotten, especially under stress.