Top 10 Must-Ask Questions for Vendors at a Wedding Expo in Melbourne

1. Top 10 Must-Ask Questions for Vendors at a Wedding Expo in Melbourne Walking into a wedding expo in Melbourne is like stepping into a world of endless inspiration—breathtaking décor, stunning gowns, and top-tier wedding vendors, all in one place! It’s the perfect chance to gather fresh ideas, connect with industry experts, and snag exclusive expo-only deals. But with so much to see and so many vendors to meet, it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed. That’s where this guide comes in! I’ll help you ask the right questions, stay organised, and make the most of your day. No stress, no missed opportunities—just a fun and productive experience that brings you one step closer to your perfect wedding. Why Asking the Right Questions Matters Booking your wedding vendors is one of the biggest investments you’ll make for your big day, and asking the right questions isn’t just smart—it’s a total game-changer. Here’s why: ✅Avoid hidden costs and last-minute surprises. No one likes unexpected fees popping up down the track! ✅Compare services and pricing with confidence. Not all vendors offer the same value, so it’s essential to know what you’re getting.

2. ✅Ensure the vendor aligns with your wedding vision. Your wedding should feel uniquely you, and the right vendors will help bring that vision to life. ✅Make stress-free, informed decisions. The last thing you want is to be scrambling for details or regretting a rushed choice. If you’re in Melbourne, you’re in luck! The city hosts some of Australia’s best wedding expos, including the iconic One Fine Day Wedding Expo—a crowd favourite and hands-down one of the most stylish, well-curated wedding events in the country. These expos are a great way to meet heaps of top-tier vendors under one roof, making it easy to compare options, ask questions, and score some amazing deals. So, grab your notebook (or your phone) and get ready—because with the right questions, you’re about to level up your wedding planning game! Wedding Vendors You’ll Meet at a Bridal Expo A wedding expo in Melbourne is like a one-stop shop for everything wedding-related! You’ll find an incredible mix of vendors ready to help bring your dream day to life. Here’s who to keep an eye out for: Venues Whether you're dreaming of a grand ballroom or a cosy rustic barn, venue reps will be there to chat about availability, packages, and all the extras. Photographers & Videographers Scroll through gorgeous wedding albums, watch highlight reels, and find a photographer or videographer who matches your vibe. Wedding Planners Feeling overwhelmed? Planners can help take the stress out of organising your big day, offering coordination services tailored to your needs. Caterers & Cake Designers The best part—free samples! Try delicious food and cake options while discussing catering packages that fit your wedding style.

3. Florists From bouquets to breathtaking floral installations, florists will have plenty of inspo for your wedding flowers and décor. Bridal & Groom Fashion They also conducted a bridal show in Melbourne. Find the dress, a killer suit, or those finishing touches like veils, accessories, and custom alterations. Entertainment & DJs Get the party started! Whether you’re after a live band, DJ, or even a string quartet, entertainment vendors will showcase their best beats. Hair & Makeup Artists Book a trial or chat with beauty pros who specialise in wedding glam—because you need to feel amazing on the big day. Stationery & Invitations From elegant invitations to custom signage and place cards, you’ll find all the little details that set the tone for your wedding.

4. Honeymoon & Travel Services Planning a dreamy getaway? Travel experts will be there with honeymoon packages, destination ideas, and exclusive expo deals. A wedding expo is the perfect chance to meet vendors face-to-face, ask all your burning questions, and maybe even lock in some special offers. So, bring your wedding checklist and get ready to tick off some big decisions! 10 Key Questions to Ask Your Wedding Vendors Planning a wedding is an exciting ride, but with so many details to juggle, it can get a bit overwhelming. To keep things running smoothly and avoid any unexpected hiccups, here are 10 must-ask questions for your wedding vendors. These will help you stick to your budget, dodge last-minute surprises, and make sure your big day goes off without a hitch. 1. What packages do you offer, and what’s included? Not all wedding packages are the same, so it’s worth getting a clear breakdown of what each one includes. Some vendors have different levels of service, so be sure to ask: ● Exactly what’s covered in each package. ● Whether you can tweak it to better suit your needs. ● If there are any extra costs for add-ons or upgrades.

5. 2. Are you available on our wedding date? This one’s a no-brainer. The best vendors—especially in Melbourne’s peak wedding seasons (spring and summer)—can get booked out months, sometimes even years, in advance. Before you fall in love with their work, make sure they’re actually free on your big day. 3. Can you provide reviews or references from past couples? A trustworthy vendor will have no trouble showing off their glowing reviews. To get a feel for their reputation, check: ● Testimonials from previous couples. ● Online reviews on Google, social media, or wedding forums. ● Direct references you can chat with for honest feedback. This helps you separate the pros from the duds and ensures you’re in safe hands. 4. Do you offer any special discounts or expo-only deals? Wedding expos can be a goldmine for snagging exclusive discounts, so don’t be afraid to ask about: ● Limited-time deals or special offers just for expo attendees. ● Discounts for locking in your booking on the spot. ● Bonus perks like free add-ons or upgrades. A little insider info could save you a decent chunk of cash! 5. What’s your payment schedule and cancellation policy? Money matters, so it’s crucial to know exactly where you stand. Make sure you ask about: ● The deposit amount and when it’s due. ● Whether they offer payment plans or installments. ● Their cancellation and refund policy—because sometimes, plans change. Sorting out these details upfront will help you avoid any financial surprises down the track. 6. Do you have experience with our venue or wedding style? Bringing in a vendor who’s worked at your venue before can be a game-changer. They’ll already know: ● The best photo spots and lighting angles. ● Any venue rules or restrictions (like noise limits or décor guidelines). ● How to handle setup logistics for a seamless experience.

6. If they haven’t worked there before, ask if they’re open to a site visit beforehand—this can help avoid any surprises on the big day. 7. What’s your backup plan if something goes wrong? Weddings are big events, and sometimes things don’t go to plan. A reliable vendor should have a solid backup strategy in case of ● Illness or emergencies—like a replacement photographer or DJ on standby. ● Equipment failures—such as spare cameras or backup power for musicians. ● Last-minute cancellations—having a trusted professional in their network who can step in. A good vendor won’t just cross their fingers and hope for the best—they’ll have a plan to keep everything running smoothly. 8. Can we customise your services to suit our vision? Every couple wants their wedding to feel personal, so it’s worth checking how flexible your vendors are. Ask if they offer: ● Custom menus, including dietary-friendly options (for caterers). ● Tailored playlists (for DJs or live bands). ● Bespoke floral arrangements or décor themes (for florists and stylists). The more adaptable they are, the easier it’ll be to bring your dream wedding to life.

7. 9. What’s the best way to stay in touch leading up to the big day? Good communication can save you a whole lot of stress. Make sure you’re on the same page about: ● Preferred contact methods—email, phone, WhatsApp, or in-person meetings. ● How quickly they usually respond to messages. ● The best times to reach them (especially during peak wedding season). A vendor who’s easy to communicate with can make the planning process much smoother. 10. What’s the next step if we want to book you? If you’ve found a vendor you love, don’t wait too long to lock them in! Get clarity on: ● Deposit requirements and payment timelines. ● The contract process—always review the terms before signing. ● What happens next—such as planning meetings, tastings, or consultations. Most vendors require a deposit to secure your date, so be ready to make a decision once you’re confident in your choice. Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Wedding Expo in Melbourne Experience Make the most of your wedding expo experience with these handy tips: ✅Get there early and have a plan. The best vendors get busy fast, so decide who you want to see first and head straight to them. ✅Take notes and grab brochures. With so many stalls, it’s easy to forget details. Use your phone or a notebook to jot down key info. ✅Follow vendors on social media. They often post special deals, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes content—staying connected can help with final decisions. ✅Don’t rush into bookings. Some vendors offer expo-only discounts, but take your time to compare options and make sure they fit your vision and budget. ✅Sort out transport in advance. Check the expo’s “How to Get There” page for parking details, public transport options, and entry info. Some venues have limited on-site parking or require pre-booking.

8. Recommended Upcoming Wedding Expos in Australia for 2025 If you’re looking for the ultimate wedding planning experience, One Fine Day Wedding Expo is the must-visit event of the year! This highly curated wedding fair brings together the best vendors in the industry, offering inspiration, exclusive deals, and a fun, stress-free atmosphere. Wedding Expo in Melbourne for 2025—May 24 and 25, 2025 (Timber Yard, Port Melbourne) Wedding Expo in Sydney for 2025—August 9 and 10, 2025 (White Bay Cruise Terminal, Rozelle) Tickets are FREE! Simply register online to secure your spot. For more details, exhibitor lists, and event schedules, visit the One Fine Day Wedding Expo website or follow them on social media for updates! Walk Away from the Wedding Expo Feeling Excited and Ready to Plan! If there’s one thing I’ve learned from attending wedding expos, it’s that they’re so much more than just collecting brochures. They’re a chance to meet incredible bridal expo vendors, spark fresh ideas, and take real steps towards bringing your dream wedding to life. The key? Ask the right questions, stay

9. organised, and keep an open mind—you’ll walk away feeling confident, inspired, and ready to make those big decisions. Wedding planning should be exciting, not overwhelming. Take your time, weigh up your options, and choose vendors who truly get your vision. Trust your gut—if it feels right, it probably is! I know how valuable expert advice and real wedding inspiration can be. That’s why I’m here to share the best tips, planning guides, and behind-the-scenes insights to make your journey easier. Subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive content, or book a chat with a wedding expert to help bring your vision to life. Now go on, soak up the expo, meet amasing vendors, and start turning your wedding dreams into reality! FAQs 1. When’s the best time to attend a wedding expo? Ideally, around 12 to 18 months before your big day. This gives you first pick of top vendors and a chance to snag early-bird discounts. 2. Can I negotiate prices with vendors? Absolutely! Many vendors are open to bundle deals, off-season discounts, or special expo pricing, so don’t be afraid to ask. 3. Will there be free samples? Yes! Expect cake tastings, catering bites, beauty trials, and other goodies from vendors keen to showcase their services. 4. Should I bring someone with me? Definitely! Whether it’s your partner, a friend, or a family member, having a second opinion can be helpful (and make the day more fun!). 5. What should I bring to a wedding expo? Pack a notebook, a tote bag for brochures, and a list of must-visit vendors. Some savvy couples also bring pre-printed labels with their contact details for easy sign-ups.