The internet never fails to deliver some jaw-dropping stories, and if you’ve been following wedding drama on TikTok lately, you may have come across the viral saga of a makeup artist who was kicked out of a wedding. Yes, it really happened, and the internet has had a field day debating who was in the wrong. In the original TikTok clip (which has since gained millions of views), the makeup artist was accused of being unprofessional, and things escalated quickly when the bride decided to have her removed from the venue entirely.
While the situation has sparked plenty of debate (and some serious laughs), it also brings up an important question: What can brides and grooms do to avoid these uncomfortable, and sometimes chaotic, wedding day vendor dilemmas?
As a wedding photo + video team, we’ve seen it all—vendors who go above and beyond, and unfortunately, those who miss the mark. So how can brides and grooms set clear expectations and ensure their big day runs smoothly? Here’s what we’ve learned from this viral moment (and from years of capturing weddings) about setting healthy boundaries with vendors to keep your wedding day drama-free.
Clear Communication is Key
When booking a vendor, whether it’s your photographer, videographer, makeup artist, or florist, it’s essential to communicate your expectations from the very start. Think of your wedding as a well-choreographed production where each vendor plays a starring role. Clear communication ensures everyone is on the same page.
From timelines to creative preferences, the more detail you provide, the better. You’ll want to have pre-wedding discussions about not only the services offered but also the logistics, such as arrival times, setup expectations, and any “house rules” your venue or family may have.
Our Tip: Schedule a final meeting with your photo and video team about a month before the wedding. This is when you’ll want to share your shot list, timeline, and any special moments you absolutely don’t want to be missed.
Your Day, Your Rules
The viral TikTok story highlights a key issue—sometimes, vendors may not align with your vision or energy on the day of the event. Maybe it’s their work style or simply a personality mismatch, but remember, it’s your wedding. You have the right to request changes if something feels off, whether it’s switching a makeup look or asking a photographer to pivot on shot ideas.
Be sure to express your preferences firmly but kindly, and if needed, don’t be afraid to delegate this responsibility to someone in your bridal party. Your wedding day should be filled with joy, not stress.
Pro Tip: Make sure you feel comfortable with all your vendors in advance. We always recommend an engagement photoshoot with your wedding photographer to get to know each other’s styles and personalities. This ensures a smooth experience on the big day!
Backup Plans are a Bride’s (and Groom’s) Best Friend
While we all hope for perfection, sometimes things go awry (remember the makeup artist who got kicked out?). Having a Plan B can make all the difference between a hiccup and a full-on wedding meltdown. This could mean booking a second photographer for extra coverage or having a bridesmaid learn basic makeup touch-ups in case your artist bails last minute.
At With This Ring, we always have a backup plan in place. From extra batteries to ensuring we have multiple photographers and videographers, we know that preparation is the key to a stress-free day. If a vendor gets stuck in traffic or equipment fails, you’ll never notice because we’ve got it covered.
The Importance of Respecting Boundaries
Just as you’re setting expectations for your vendors, it’s important to recognize the boundaries they may have. For example, some photographers may have specific clauses about what types of edits they’re willing to do post-event, or makeup artists may have guidelines on hygiene and application techniques. By respecting these professional boundaries, you build a positive working relationship, which makes everyone’s day smoother.
If you ever feel uncomfortable with a vendor’s boundaries, it’s better to address it well before the big day to avoid conflict.
Trust the Professionals
Lastly, while it’s important to set boundaries, it’s equally important to trust the professionals you’ve hired. They are experts for a reason, and you’ve chosen them because of their talent. Trying to micromanage every detail can create tension. Instead, let them work their magic within the framework you’ve established. You’ll get the best results when you allow your team to do what they do best!
Wrapping it Up: Happy Vendors = A Happy Day
So, what’s the lesson from that viral TikTok moment? At the end of the day, your wedding vendors are there to make your vision come to life, but setting clear expectations and boundaries is essential for a smooth, joyous event. By communicating early and often, respecting each other’s limits, and having backup plans, you can ensure that your wedding day stays focused on the love and celebration you’ve been dreaming of.
And hey, if you’re still searching for a photo and video team that will capture every moment (minus the drama!), With This Ring Wedding Films + Photo has your back! Let’s work together to make your wedding day as stress-free as possible.
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