Spotlight: The Local Advantage

^{Katherine Bowes}

Unique & Creative Offerings

Local vendors often bring unique and creative touches to their services, incorporating regional specialties and trends. Leanne Kolodziej of Jewelry by Johan highlights, "Shopping locally for your wedding makes the experience more one-on-one. This personal connection makes local vendors more invested in making your wedding spectacular. Additionally, local vendors are familiar with the regional wedding landscape, and can help you connect with other vendors that have proven their ability to elevate your wedding day experience. There may even be referral programs between local vendors to give you additional discounts!" Whether it’s a signature cocktail, a custom cake design, or decor inspired by local traditions, local vendors can offer distinctive elements that set your wedding apart.

^{Photo courtesy of Jewelry by Johan}

Familiarity with the Area

Local vendors have a deep understanding of their surroundings and often have established relationships with other local businesses. Nicole Stettler from Weddings at Cragun’s, Cragun’s Resort, Golf & Conference says, "Local vendors are a lot of things... familiar with the area, other local vendors and have probably worked together in the past. We are all friends or friendly and we chat a lot more about your events than the ones that we don't align on. Every time I see a photographer that is working a wedding that I have coming up, we chat briefly about it. We are going to know more about your overall event. Additionally - we know the ins and outs of our area, we are going to be able to find services you didn't know we had."

^{Jenna Elfering}

Community Engagement

Gaosong Heu from Marc Heu Patisserie Paris shares how local vendors contribute to a wedding’s unique flavor: "Here at Marc Heu Patisserie Paris, we always choose local whenever possible. Whether it is our ingredients, team members, or business partners-- we understand that "French Artistry + Local Heart" is what sets us apart, every time. Planning a wedding can be overwhelming and scary! But when you support local, you have the unique opportunity to interact with the real people who create the magic for your special day." This involvement adds a layer of meaning and connection to your celebration, enhancing the overall experience.

^{Vickie Olsen Studios}

Trusted Recommendations

Local vendors often build strong relationships with each other, which can benefit your wedding planning. Jenna Jenna Culley of Jenna Culley Events & Linen Effects shares, "Choosing local vendors can offer big benefits to a couple's wedding experience. Local vendors typically work together more than once, and because of that we grow relationships with each other. When we have those strong relationships, we are more likely to refer that local vendor to our clients for their services. Because our clients trust us, they know they can trust the vendors that we recommend for them. For example, Event Planners are repeat customers of Florists, and when we refer our clients to that Florist time and time again, we trust that we will receive a high-quality product and an expert level of service."

^{Abigail Ann Photography}

A Meaningful Experience

Local choices often come with personal connections and a sense of familiarity that can make your wedding day feel more meaningful. Heidi Sohn from Hewing Hotel notes, "Choosing local impacts the overall wedding experience for couples by adding an element of home to their special day. Local choices often come with personal connections, whether it is a favorite restaurant as the caterer or a cherished park as the venue. This familiarity can make the day feel more meaningful and aligned with the couple’s personal story. Local vendors are likely to be more accessible, which can reduce stress and logistical challenges. They also offer unique, regional touches that set the wedding apart. Whether it is incorporating local traditions, showcasing regional cuisine, or using local artisans for decor, these elements can make the celebration feel distinctive and personal."

^{Vick Photography}

Strengthening Community Pride

Kailey Levin of Marquette Hotel & Windows at Marquette highlights the broader impact of choosing local: "Choosing a local venue can add a unique touch to your event and make it more memorable. When you work with local businesses, you're not just getting a product or service—you're often getting a personal touch and a deeper connection. Local vendors are more likely to put extra effort into making sure everything is perfect because they have a vested interest in the community and in creating a memorable experience for their clients. Plus, supporting local businesses can strengthen your community and foster a sense of local pride." 

 
^{Photo courtesy of Marquette Hotel}

Stress-Free Experience

Local vendors often offer quick communication and have a deep understanding of local flavors and traditions, leading to a stress-free planning process. Christy O’Keefe from Mintahoe Catering and Events notes, "Choosing local vendors for your wedding ensures a truly personalized experience, with a deep understanding of local flavors and traditions. Their quick communication and established relationships with other local professionals lead to seamless coordination, making your day stress-free. Plus, by supporting local businesses, you add a layer of meaning to your celebration, knowing that your special day is contributing to the community you love."

 
^{Matt Lien Photography}

^{Main photo by Kat Larrea Photography}