The average Indian wedding involves 15–25 vendors working in coordination. Missing even one can create chaos. This comprehensive vendor checklist ensures you've covered every base — with booking timelines and expert tips.
Must-Have Vendors (Book 6–12 Months Ahead)
1. Venue
Banquet hall, hotel, farmhouse, or heritage property
Book: 9–12 months ahead for peak season
Red flag: No backup plan for weather; hidden charges not in the contract
2. Caterer
Vegetarian/non-vegetarian menu, live counters, bar service
Book: 6–9 months ahead
Red flag: No tasting session; unclear per-plate pricing
3. Photographer & Videographer
Pre-wedding, ceremony, and candid photography
Book: 6–9 months ahead (read our photography planning guide)
Red flag: No full wedding portfolio; unclear deliverables and timelines
4. Makeup Artist
Bridal makeup for all functions, hair styling, draping
Book: 6–9 months ahead
Red flag: No trial session; works without understanding your outfit
5. Decorator / Florist
Mandap, stage, entrance, table settings, floral arrangements
Book: 4–6 months ahead
Red flag: No 3D mockup or mood board; uses only stock photos
6. Wedding Stylist
Outfit selection, shopping assistance, colour coordination, day-of styling
Book: 6–9 months ahead with StyleBuddy
Red flag: No understanding of different ceremony dress codes
> 💡 Pro Tip: Always get contracts in writing. A verbal agreement is never enough for Indian weddings where plans change frequently. Include cancellation policies, overtime charges, and exact deliverables.
Important Vendors (Book 3–6 Months Ahead)
7. Mehendi Artist
Bridal mehendi (full hands and feet), guest mehendi
Book: 3–4 months ahead
Red flag: No bridal mehendi portfolio; unclear about design complexity pricing
8. DJ / Entertainment
Sangeet music, reception DJ, baraat dhol/band
Book: 3–6 months ahead
Red flag: No song list consultation; no site visit for sound check
9. Pandit / Officiant
Wedding ceremony rituals, muhurat timing
Book: 3–6 months ahead
Red flag: Extremely long ceremony without consultation; no English/Hindi explanation for guests
10. Invitation Designer / Printer
Physical cards, digital invites, wedding website
Book: 4–5 months ahead
Red flag: No proof approval process; low-quality paper/printing
11. Jewelry (Purchase or Rental)
Bridal jewelry set, groom accessories
Book/Shop: 3–6 months ahead
Red flag: No return/exchange policy; no authenticity certificate for gold/diamonds
Nice-to-Have Vendors (Book 1–3 Months Ahead)
12. Choreographer
Sangeet dance preparation for couple, family, and friends
Book: 2–3 months ahead
13. Trousseau Packer
Professional packing for bridal trousseau
Book: 1–2 months ahead
14. Valet / Parking Service
Guest parking management
Book: 1 month ahead
15. Live Streaming Service
For NRI relatives and guests who can't attend
Book: 1–2 months ahead
> 🔍 Did You Know: The biggest vendor-related complaint from couples is miscommunication — 65% of post-wedding vendor disputes arise from unclear contracts. Always specify dates, times, deliverables, and payment schedules in writing.
Questions to Ask Every Vendor
What's included in your package and what's extra?
What's your cancellation and refund policy?
Have you worked at my venue before?
How many events do you handle on the same day?
Can I see reviews from recent clients?
What's your backup plan if you fall sick?
How StyleBuddy Coordinates with Your Vendors
We don't replace your other vendors — we enhance their work:
Brief your MUA on outfit details for cohesive looks
Coordinate with photographer on outfit reveal moments
Work with decorator to ensure outfit colours complement the décor
Align with planner on outfit change timelines
Need a wedding styling expert on your vendor team? Book a free consultation → with StyleBuddy Weddings.