How to email vendors: my three-part template

Way too much for the first email in my opinion. We kept all of our initial emails very short and simple.

Hello,

My fiance and I are looking for (service type) and we would love to get more information from you, as well as a possible estimate. Our date is (date) and (location)

I let them send back the questions they have for me, then go from there.

I love the way you're approaching this!! I think the structure of give the basic facts, tell them what you want, and ask the right questions is totally on point!

A lot of couples leave inquiries too open-ended or unclear - so it's important to ask the question you want to ask, and to set expectations for the next step. Do you want their pricing? Are you looking for more information about their services? Do you have a deal-breaker initial question (such as: can I bring an outside caterer)? Do you want to set up a phone call? Be specific!!

When I was reaching out to photographers I wanted to set up a phone call so I was very clear about that in my message. After the sharing my wedding date, location, and asking about their availability - I cut right to the chase about scheduling a phone call: "I'd love to set up a quick phone call to discuss your pricing and packages further! Do you have any availability next week? The best times for me are between 11am-1pm, or after 6pm. Please let me know!"

I love it, its a sample and you pull what works or makes sense for you! thanks for sharing.

I don't see a problem. I would say that people shopping around comes with the territory of being a vendor. I would always advise getting as much info as possible and then making a comparison. I would think this email eliminates all the back and forth of collecting that info.

There is no reason you need all that info on an initial email. Especially in a format that shows you are just farming out for vendors.

I actually liked this myself, As I am a detail-oriented person, and I ask a lot of questions haha. I don't like wasting my time or theirs so usually I send something similar in hopes to get all questions answered. I am planning 2 years ahead so yea I am a huge plan ahead so I can take my time If I wanted to or needed to