9 months out
Shortlisting Vendors Before the Peak-Season Rush
Good photographers, caterers, and mehndi performers for in-demand dates get booked out far earlier than most first-time planners expect. This stage is about shortlisting and holding options, not making every final pick yet.
Why dates matter more than most couples expect
Wedding season dates cluster around cooler months and particular weekends, and the vendors who work those dates most often are the ones whose calendars fill up first. A photographer with a strong portfolio and a caterer known for a specific city's cuisine are often the two vendors couples most regret not locking in early.
Checklist
0 of 7 doneWaiting until 6 months out to even start photographer conversations. By then, the photographers with the strongest portfolios for a popular date are frequently already booked, leaving a narrower and sometimes rushed choice.
What this stage typically costs
| Item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Photography booking deposit | Rs 30,000–100,000 | Usually a percentage of the full package, confirm it's non-refundable or not |
| Catering tasting fee, if charged | Rs 0–15,000 | Many caterers waive this once a booking looks likely |
| Performer or DJ booking deposit | Rs 15,000–50,000 | Higher for well-known mehndi performers in peak season |
Ask every vendor directly whether your date falls in their peak season, and if so, whether their pricing or availability changes because of it. Getting this answer now avoids a surprise later when a vendor who seemed open suddenly isn't.
FAQ
Do deposits at this stage get held against the final price?
Usually yes, most vendors apply the deposit toward the total package cost. Confirm this in writing rather than assuming, since terms vary by vendor.
Is it too early to look at outfits?
Not for browsing and getting a sense of style and rough pricing. Actual ordering usually happens closer to 6 months out once the final guest list and function list are locked.
What if a preferred vendor is already booked for the date?
Ask if they can recommend someone in a similar style; many vendors maintain informal referral relationships with others whose work they respect.