What is the most important quality to look for in a wedding vendor?

I'm thinking primarily photographer or videographer, but would love to hear your opinion about the the other vendors, florists, caterer, baker, etc.

I insist on great customer service. When I call them, I expect a call back within a day. I know a lot of brides have to deal with vendors who aren't good at communicating, but this is something I refuse to put up with. You should never have to chase down a vendor about your event.

Also, vendors must be upfront with all costs. Weddings are expensive and hidden costs are unacceptable.

There are several important questions to ask yourself with wedding photography.

Do we like his/her book?
The "book" is a collection of the photographer's best work. If they don't have one available, it means the person is severely unorganized or just full of it -- neither of which you want. Pay attention to whether the photos have too much clutter in the background, poor lighting (washed out pics where small details are blurred), the ability of the photographer to detect sensitivity in capturing people's emotions etc.

Do we like a wedding album that she/he created?
You'll get a feel for the photographers sense of style. If the pictures are very traditional, photojournalistic (instead of quietly posing for pictures, this photographer will quietly buzz around you getting pictures of people and the action going on) or a combination of both.

Do we get good vibes?
Is the person excited by your vision when you describe it? When suggestions are made, does the photographer explain them in a clear and respectful way? Rude or timid? In order to get the best photos, go with a hot short who has firm grasph of social graces byt is assertive enough to go out hunting for great images and puts you at ease.

Here are some more helpful hints:
- Make sure the photographer you've seen will be the one to show up at your wedding. Larger photo studios have several photographers on their roster.
- Talk about how many rolls of film your photographer will shoot and how many proofs (sample developed pictures) you'll choose from and how many prints will be in your final package.
- Determine a price range based on the number of prints you'll want and how many albums you'll need.

any vendor make sure they are legit, and see what they offer..

I think there are 4 things to look for in all wedding vendors:
1. Do you like the work they do?
2. Are they willing to accommodate your requests, and work within your budget?
3. Is this someone you would like working with? Or do you not get a good feeling?
4. Can they provide references? Do they have a good track record for being reliable?

their reputation

speak with other brides or MOB who have used their services and ask what they loved and what they would have done differently in regard to each service.

credit standing is important

You need a few things:
- The price should be agreed on up front and you should feel comfortable with it.
- You should be familiar with the person's portfolio of previous work, and would be happy if your photos/cake/flowers turned out that way.
- You would have discussed your vision together and they have agreed on what you want. A professional would also offer suggestions of good things you may not have thought of, but ultimately you get to call the shots.
- You have a legally binding contract with the person or company that includes how much you are paying and also that they are supposed to deliver on what they promised.
- For many vendors, if they've worked before with your venue or are one of the venue's "preferred vendors" that is a huge bonus. There may be a discount associated, they already know the people and the place, and you will have fewer problems.

Good luck!