The wedding industry can feel like a secret club with its own language. You start out thinking you’re just booking a photographer or buying a dress, then suddenly you’re knee-deep in terms like editorial coverage, flatlays, and off-the-rack lead times. It can be very confusing!

You don’t really need to learn the language though – the professionals you hire should meet you where you are. But it helps to know how to hold your own in the conversation.

Start by being honest about what you don’t know. You’re not expected to understand every line of a contract or the difference between a second shooter and an associate photographer. Ask. A good vendor won’t make you feel stupid for asking questions, they’ll respect you for wanting to understand what you’re paying for.

If someone uses jargon, stop them and say, “Can you explain what that means?” If they get defensive, that’s a red flag. You’re hiring collaborators, not gatekeepers!

Be clear about your priorities. You don’t have to pretend to care about trends or traditional timelines if that’s not your thing. Instead of asking “what’s normal?,” ask “what’s possible?” Most wedding suppliers love creative freedom, and the right ones will light up when you tell them you want to do things differently.

Talk about money early. Say your budget out loud. You’re not being rude or awkward – you’re saving both of you time. And don’t be afraid to ask what’s included and what isn’t. Transparency is everything.

Finally, trust your gut. You can tell a lot from how someone replies to your first email. Do they listen? Do they respect your vision? Do they seem genuinely excited to be part of it? That’s the energy you want around you.

You don’t have to become fluent in “wedding-speak.” You just need to know what you want, ask questions without fear, and work with people who see you as an equal – not just another sale.