Planning a Wedding in 2026: Why Vetted Professionals Matter More Than Ever
If you’ve recently gotten engaged—first of all, congratulations ! This season of life is exciting, emotional, and full of big decisions. But it can also feel overwhelming when you realize just how many vendors you’re suddenly expected to choose: photographers, planners, florists, venues, DJs, videographers, and more.
As a wedding professional heading into 2026, I call it my duty to be transparent with you.
I spend time every day reaching out to venues, planners, photographers, stylists, DJs, and other wedding pros—not just to build relationships, but to understand the realities of how weddings are executed and how vendors operate ( We literally have group chats and we talk through direct messenger regularly) I want you working with people who are trustworthy, accountable, and committed to your experience, not just to posting pretty photos online.
A Hard Truth From 2025: Ohio Brides Were Impacted by Vendor Issues
Screen capture of 2025 News clipping that was widespread in 2025 | Ohio Wedding Industry
In 2025, the Ohio wedding world saw several couples being hurt by vendors who didn’t deliver as expected—including reported cases of photographers and planners who never showed up, ghosted couples after payment, or left couples struggling to get refunds.
Here are a few verified examples:
Multiple brides reported that a local photographer ghosted them after payment and failed to deliver photos or refunds, leaving couples stressed and without the memories they paid for. Facebook
Several Ohio brides had wedding deposit issues with a venue planner, and had difficulty getting their money back when legal history and other complications surfaced. 10TV
Social groups and community posts shared warnings from couples and vendors about planners or photographers who were allegedly engaging in unethical practices, prompting other couples to be cautious. Facebook+1
(While not every situation resulted in a traditional “news article,” these community reports and local investigative stories were widely shared among Ohio wedding groups in 2025.)
These situations are heartbreaking—not because weddings didn’t happen, but because couples were put in gut-wrenching scenarios during a time that should have been joyful.
Why “Vetted” Matters More Than Nice Photos
In simple terms: Anyone can screenshot images from other photographers and claim them as their own on an Instagram.
Heck, its probably another photographer stealing my photos somewhere and claiming them to be their own without my permission. If it never comes to my attention, I wont be able to combat it.
There are countless talented, honest professionals in the Ohio wedding industry who genuinely want to support couples and make wedding days unforgettable. You can also find them at almost every price point too!
But popularity or a pretty portfolio alone doesn’t guarantee professionalism or the righteous experience.
A vetted vendor is someone who:
Communicates clearly and proactively
Offers transparent contracts with defined deliverables
Has verifiable reviews and testimonials
Will schedule a chat—whether by phone, FaceTime, or in person
Responds professionally, even under tough questions
No one is perfect, and I’m the first to tell you that I’ve made plenty of mistakes as a wedding photographer, but as a result, I’ve developed back ups to my backups to my backups in order to prevent those mistakes from repeating themselves .
If a vendor pushes you to book without a conversation or seems evasive about contract details, that’s a red flag.
My Commitment to You as a 2026 Bride
I don’t believe in fear-based booking. I believe in informed booking. In my intake form: I ask frankly “ What are your biggest fears in wedding photography, this is to talk through pain points early, instill confidence so we can work through what works and what does not work for you as a client.
Your wedding deserves professionals who value:
- Your peace of mind
- Your memories
- Your trust
- Honest communication
Great weddings aren’t just about the final photos or event day—they’re about the trust you build with the people you choose to surround yourselves with.
So I encourage every couple to:
Schedule a call or FaceTime with vendors
Ask hard questions about process and contingency plans
Read contracts carefully and ask for clarifications
Book professionals who are transparent, respectful, and communicative
You deserve to feel confident—not pressured.
Final Advice for Newly Engaged Couples
Before you book:
Sit down and discuss your priorities
Meet your vendors (by phone or video or in person if applicable )
Trust professionals who take time to listen and explain
Choose people who value your experience as much as their own portfolio
Weddings are once-in-a-lifetime moments. Your vendors should add joy to that journey—not stress.
If you ever have questions about vendors, contracts, rates, or anything wedding-related, I’m here to help. I’m here to help if you booked with me, I’m here for you if you book with someone else. I’m here to help you plan the most memorable event possible!
Because the right professionals don’t just show up—they stand with you.
If you are or someone you know is actively looking for wedding photographers in the Ohio or surrounding states, click the button below.
