When it comes to luxury weddings, there’s a common misconception I feel compelled to clear up: reputable wedding vendors don’t negotiate their pricing in the way you might expect. We’re not a car dealership—and the experience we provide isn’t a one-size-fits-all transaction that can be bartered over a sticker price.
That doesn’t mean there isn’t room for flexibility. But there’s a very real distinction between negotiation and customisation—and understanding that difference sets the tone for a more respectful, collaborative, and ultimately elevated planning experience.
The Reality Behind Wedding Pricing
Let’s say you’re working with a $15,000 budget for your wedding photography, but a vendor you love offers a signature package priced at $17,500. It’s completely fair to approach them and say, “This is what I’ve budgeted—do you offer anything at this level?”
A seasoned professional might be able to adjust their offerings to offer a bespoke proposal or a custom quote. That might mean reducing the number of hours of coverage (from 10 hours to 7), or shifting from two photographers to one. That’s not discounting—it’s refining the scope. It’s tailoring an experience that works for you while preserving the integrity of what we do.
That’s called customisation. And it’s welcomed in our world.
What We Don’t Do: Undervalue Our Work
What we don’t do is take a $17,500 experience—crafted with care, time, and artistry—and offer it for $15,000 simply because another photographer said they’d do it cheaper.
When you approach a vendor with “X person offered this for less, can you match it?”, you’re not asking for a partnership—you’re price shopping. And respectfully, that’s not how luxury service works. This is a big red flag for vendors, and by default you have already insulted them (potentially without even realising) and they are now no longer interested in working with you.
If another vendor fits your budget and your vision, book them. But if you’re here, it’s likely because something about our work, our approach, and the way we make you feel resonated with you. That’s priceless.
A Shift Toward Bespoke Offerings
In the past, I offered 3 set collections—something simple, something elevated—and most couples chose the one that aligned with their day. But today, couples are approaching weddings in more intentional, nuanced ways. The timelines are unique, the celebrations are nontraditional, and the expectations are beautifully specific.
So now, I create bespoke proposals (custom collections) for those who either want more than my highest collection or somewhere in between. You don’t need to know exactly what you want—just what matters most to you. From there, we can craft a bespoke experience that reflects your priorities, timeline, and taste.
How to Approach Your Vendors With Respect & Confidence
If you’re a couple planning a luxury wedding, here’s a script that communicates your intentions clearly and gracefully:
“We love your work and the experience you offer. We’ve have in mind $X for photography, we are wanting XYZ, what would you recommend and are there any options or custom packages you could offer us around this budget for our wants?”
That’s it. No haggling, no awkwardness—just honest communication. And I promise: vendors who value you and your vision will always be happy to meet you at the table and see what’s possible to explore working together.
Final Thoughts:
True luxury is rooted in trust, artistry, and experience. When you hire a premium wedding vendor, you’re not just buying hours or deliverables—you’re investing in peace of mind, creative vision, and expertise earned through years of dedication. That has value.
We’re not offended when you share your budget. In fact, we welcome it. What we do ask is that you respect the value of our work—and understand that customization is collaboration, not compromise.
Because the right vendor doesn’t just show up with a camera or a clipboard—they show up for you.
Your wedding day deserves more than a transaction — it deserves a tailored experience. Let’s create a custom photography collection that reflects your vision, values, and style. Enquire now with me to begin.
