Zazzaretti Bridal is back again for her monthly DIY wedding inspiration and advice. This month her blog post will be in two parts. She will be discussing the importance of clearly articulating the design aspects of your bouquet, hair piece, reception decorations, etc. with your handmade wedding vendors on Etsy. Part two will discuss your budget and how to discuss the cost of your handmade wedding items. Be sure to check out her bridal shop on Etsy!

Every bride desires an incredibly special wedding day filled with memories to be treasured for a lifetime. Some weddings are quiet and intimate while others are a large affair with every detail taken into consideration. Whether it consists of a guest list of hundreds or only a few, décor that is simple or over-the-top, or styles that vary from rustic country to rock star glam, everyone must think about budget at some point during planning. When making a decision to work with a vendor who is a handmade artist, discussing budget and expectations may feel like unfamiliar territory to most brides.

Sometimes finding where to begin or how to broach the subject can seem somewhat intimidating. But my advice is: Don't feel uncomfortable! From an artist/vendor point of view, it is much easier to work with a client when the client has a clear idea of their budget and expectations so we can offer you personalized options that are specifically tailored to your needs. Don't be afraid to be upfront with the artist/vendor and tell them you'd like to discuss your planned budget and expectations for this specific work so you can both be on the same page from the start. It will save both parties a great deal of time and effort, and you will more likely get an even better product than when guesswork is involved. Plus, it'll save the bride from unneeded stress while planning the big day!

So, you might be asking yourself...What should I communicate when contacting an artist/vendor for a quote? Here are a few tips:

• Be clear with your expectations and provide vital wedding information. Here are a few questions you might want to consider.

1. Which pieces are you interested in and how many will you need?
2. Do you want to be able to make changes during the time your items are being made?
3. When is your wedding date and how far in advance do you prefer your items in hand?
4. What style and color palette have you chosen?
5. Do you have specific preferences on the shipping method and do you prefer insurance?
6. How much do you expect to spend, is it per piece or total order?
7. Are there any additional details you feel are important? (Example: Vegan materials, specific dislikes, etc.)

• Tell the artist about your ideas.
• Be clear with any changes you are willing to, or would like to, have made.
• If you have a custom design, instead of selecting from the vendor's existing work, share an inspirational photo with the color and style you are looking for.
• Try to explain exactly what you are picturing to better help your wedding vendor give you an accurate price estimate.