Top 10 Ways to Vet Wedding Vendors and Avoid Scams: A Guide for Toronto Brides
Top 10 Ways to Vet Wedding Vendors and Avoid Scams
A Guide for Toronto Brides
You’re newly engaged, knee-deep in Instagram saves and Pinterest boards, and just starting to book your dream team of wedding vendors.
But if you’ve spent any time in Toronto wedding planning Facebook groups lately, you’ve probably seen a few unsettling posts: makeup artists ghosting brides, DJs vanishing after a deposit, or horror stories of photographers who never delivered.
First, take a deep breath. You're not alone, and you're not paranoid for feeling nervous. As a 2025 bride and a Wedding Content Creator, I’m planning my own wedding while also working behind the scenes at dozens of others. I see the same concerns come up over and over.
So let’s talk about it. How do you know which vendors to trust? And what can you do to protect yourself while still booking with confidence?
1. Look for a Professional Online Presence
It’s 2025. Having just an Instagram page isn’t a red flag, but it shouldn’t be the only place they exist.
Here’s what I look for:
A professional website (Canva or not!) or booking page that outlines their services
A Google Business profile or listings on WeddingWire or The Knot with recent reviews
Testimonials that are detailed and specific, not vague or generic
If they have a bad review, how did they respond? That can tell you a lot
Asking you to DM them for initial inquiries is totally normal, especially for vendors who primarily operate through social. But there should be a clear process after that, whether it’s a form, calendar, or email thread.
2. Check Reviews on Google, WeddingWire, and The Knot
Reviews can give you a deeper look at what the experience is actually like:
- Are there reviews from the last 6–12 months?
- Do couples mention specific details or vendors by name?
- How does the vendor handle less-than-perfect reviews?
Don't just skim the star rating. Look for consistency, professionalism, and follow-through.
3. Ask to See Their Process (Even if They're New)
Not every great vendor has a huge following, but they should have a plan.
Ask:
- Do they send a contract and request a deposit?
- Do they have a plan if they’re sick or unavailable?
- Can they walk you through their typical day-of workflow?
Clarity now avoids stress later.
4. Don’t Overlook Social Media, But Don’t Rely on It Alone
Check their tagged photos, reels, and mentions:
- Are they sharing real weddings or styled shoots?
- Are other vendors or real couples tagging them?
Some amazing vendors aren’t booked every weekend or have a large following. That’s OK! Focus more on the quality of their content and communication than frequency.
5. Watch for Clear, Consistent Communication
How a vendor communicates is often how they’ll perform:
- Do they respond within a few business days?
- Do they answer all of your questions?
- Do they offer consults or booking calls?
Even part-time vendors can be organized and responsive. Look for clarity and professionalism.
6. Make Sure There’s a Contract and Payment Schedule
Every vendor should give you a written agreement that includes:
- Scope of work
- Payment terms
- Delivery timelines
- Rescheduling or cancellation policies
No contract? That’s a no-go.
7. Be Wary of “Too Many Hats” Vendors
If one vendor offers hair, catering, photography, and decor, ask questions. Multiservice teams are fine, but if one person is doing it all, it may be too much. Specialists tend to provide more focused and reliable service.
8. Understand Market Rates and Pricing Red Flags
If something feels way too cheap, dig deeper. For context, since I also inquired with a bunch of Toronto-based Wedding Content Creators for my wedding in 2025;
- New WCCs might charge between $500.00 to $800.00
- More experienced WCC's range from $1,200.00 to $1,800.00 (based on hours of coverage and deliverables)
Free doesn’t mean flaky, but it’s important to ask about their process, backup plan, and expectations.
9. Ask for Referrals from Trusted Sources
Your best recommendations will often come from:
- Recently married friends
- Your venue’s preferred vendor list
- Photographers or planners who work tons of weddings
Ask what they loved — and what they wish they’d known.
10. Meet Vendors in Person at Bridal Shows
Want to get a feel for vendors in real life? Check out a bridal show.
Popular Toronto events include:
- WedWell Showcase (Toronto show usually in January)
- Canada Bridal Show (Fall and Winter)
- Modern Wedding Show (also Fall and Winter)
You’ll be able to talk, ask questions, and see who vibes with your vision.
Final Thoughts from a 2025 Bride & WCC
Spending thousands on vendors you’ve never met in person can feel like a gamble. I get it. But you can book with confidence if you know what to look for and aren’t afraid to ask questions.
Look beyond pretty feeds. Check reviews whether it’s Google, The Knot, or WeddingWire. Ask for referrals. Vet their communication and contracts. And trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
The truth is, most vendors are passionate professionals who want to show up and do amazing work for you. But a little extra diligence now can save you a lot of stress later.
If you’re in the middle of vendor research and want a second opinion or just someone to talk it through with, my DMs are open. You’ve got this.
A few other blog posts that I think you might like;
Day-of vs. Month-of Coordination in Toronto: What Brides Need to Know (and Why It Matters)
Wedding Content Creator or Videographer? Who Should I Hire? Do We Need Both?
