Supplier Relationships
You may be wondering why I would cover ‘supplier relationships’ as my 7th blog, it sounds like too broad a subject to cover! The thing is, sourcing (and securing) suppliers is all well and good; getting what you want from them is another thing entirely!
But surely I get what I pay for?
In reality, your relationship with your suppliers has got to be strong, honest and friendly. You want these people to look after you, fuss you, worry for you and ensure that they do everything in their power to make your day smooth-sailing. Put yourself in their place: do you think that bride A (the bride that simply books, ticks boxes and turns up on the day), bride B (Bridezilla that DEMANDS things and strops at them) and bride C (that they feel they have a relationship with and have almost become friends with) will receive identical treatment? That’s my point!
Naively, most people assume that suppliers offer a straightforward service with a standard price list and that you can’t go far wrong with your choices. Let’s face it, if it were that simple this would be a very short blog!
Whatever line of work you’re in, you know that when dealing with clients/customers you have a little leeway on certain things: it’s down to your discretion to refuse or accept a return or to hurry an order through when it has missed its deadline. Your suppliers are no different: treat them with respect and establish a relationship with them and it will be like having an old friend looking out for you on your big day... who wouldn’t prefer that?
When you say leeway, ...?
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not talking about hidden discounts that only go to ‘nice brides’ or free champagne for the sweetest couple, it’s about showing them your true personality so that they see you as someone that they couldn’t let down: your name on a message should make them smile not sigh or cringe!
But what if I’m not happy with them?
There is a fine line between being friendly and seeming like a pushover: I’m not suggesting the latter at all! As you’ll know from my other blogs, I’m all about getting what you want and deserve! If your supplier isn’t pulling their weight then address it by all means, just make sure that, once resolved, this person is still going to care about the service that they provide for you. On your big day, when you look around at all the people that you love (and the others!!!), wouldn’t it be nice to feel that the room is full of people that have your best interests at heart?