Choosing the Best Wedding Vendors for Your Wedding Day!

As a Central PA wedding photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing weddings at some of the most beautiful venues in the region—from the elegance of Hotel Hershey weddings in Hershey, to rustic barns like The Farm at Eagle’s Ridge in Lancaster, to timeless historic estates like Stone Mill Inn in York.

One of the biggest decisions couples face during wedding planning is choosing the right team of vendors. From your florist to your DJ to your photographer, these professionals play a huge role in not only how your day looks, but how it feels. The right team can keep you calm, bring your vision to life, and make the experience joyful. The wrong team can add stress—and that’s the last thing you want on your wedding day. Your vendors are the heartbeat of your wedding! 

Here are my top tips for choosing and hiring the best wedding vendors in Hershey, Lancaster, and York, PA:

       

1. Character, Chemistry, Budget, and Skill

Talent is important, but talent alone is not enough. My conviction is to never compromise on WHO someone is, even if WHAT they do looks amazing.

If you hire someone with a bad attitude, a disorganized process, or unprofessional policies, it will directly affect both your experience and the final product. Character and professionalism make all the difference. Look for someone who is kind, dependable, and genuinely invested in you—not just in showing off their portfolio.

2. Get What You Want

Yes, I said it: you can have what you want. Don’t let anyone talk you out of your vision. Of course, small adjustments may be necessary (venue restrictions, weather, or budget realities), but at the core, your wedding day should reflect your priorities and style.

If you’re dreaming of a romantic ballroom at The Hotel Hershey, a rustic Lancaster barn, or a chic downtown York celebration—lean into what excites you. Compromise on logistics if necessary, but don’t compromise on your vision. Your vendors should champion your ideas, not dismiss them.

Note on venue restrictions: Some venues require you to choose a vendor from their preferred list. This is a gift; try not to feel restricted by this. Trust them to know who the best vendor is at their property, and their experience with them will serve you well, saving you time.

3. Choose Team Players

In the world of weddings and events, we all rise and fall together. Great vendors don’t just serve you—they also work seamlessly with your entire team of professionals.

Hire people who collaborate well, communicate clearly, and treat others with respect. When your planner, florist, DJ, and photographer all work in harmony, your wedding day flows effortlessly. This is especially important at larger venues like The Hotel Hershey or at popular Lancaster/York venues, where multiple teams need to coordinate perfectly.

Preferred Vendors

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