8 Tariff Strategies for Wedding Vendors
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Worried about tariffs? You’re not alone. According to a recent poll, 75% of Americans believe tariffs are creating new friction in the wedding industry, but they’re not stopping celebrations—or the vendors who make them possible.
Across the country, pros are finding ways to stay adaptable, protect their margins and support their couples through changing costs. These strategies aren’t one-size-fits-all solutions, but they may help, and include tips from WeddingPro Educator and Certified Public Accountant, Nadia S. Anderson.
1. Stay calm
Nadia starts by reminding us that that we’ve been here before. “My best advice: don’t worry, do something.”
“High protective tariffs have existed at other periods in our nation’s history, but only for a brief period. While we’re seeing US import tariff rates rising…be assured that this too shall pass. In times of uncertainty, it’s always best to get back to basics and implement fundamental best practices to weather the storm.”
2. Get clear on contracts
Cost-adjustment clauses and flexible sourcing language can create shared understanding with clients upfront. For vendors booking far in advance, it’s worth reviewing existing contracts and adjusting templates to reflect potential material or import volatility.
3. Know your finances
“You can only expect what you inspect” says WeddingPro Educator Nadia Anderson. “Study your invoices and know exactly what you’re paying for goods. Be sure that you have financial management systems and processes in place to create financial reports on a regular basis. I recommend reviewing your profit and loss statement [at least] monthly. Then, calculate your profit margin percentage to learn what it has been historically [so that you can] monitor how it changes over time with the rising material costs due to tariffs. Armed with knowledge of your numbers, you can decide the best path forward for your business and personal finances.”
4. Lock in pricing when possible
Some vendors are encouraging early bookings so they can place orders or reserve inventory at current prices. Others are collaborating more closely with suppliers to track when cost increases are coming—and getting ahead of them when they can.
5. Rethink sourcing mix
Even partial shifts in sourcing can create stability. That might mean working with a mix of domestic and international suppliers, identifying backup products in case of delays or exploring more affordable alternatives that align with a client’s style and budget.
6. Communicate proactively with couples
Transparency is a strength. Many vendors will find success by talking openly with clients about market changes, especially when paired with collaborative solutions. Whether it’s adjusting a menu, rethinking floral quantities or swapping a rental item, couples rely on their vendors’ expertise and tend to be receptive when they feel included in the process.
7. Build in flexibility—but not at the cost of sustainability
Being nimble doesn’t mean running at a loss. Vendors who’ve weathered past economic shifts know that sustainable pricing is key to long-term success. That might mean simplifying offerings, prioritizing high-margin services or spacing out large investments to create breathing room.
8. Invest wisely in yourself and your business
When things feel unpredictable, it’s easy to hit pause on anything that isn’t urgent. But smart investments—especially in your own education, marketing and visibility—can help keep momentum going when the market shifts.
According to Nadia, “Overall, shift your mindset to approach this challenge with gratitude for the opportunity to outlast another economic shift. This change in perspective promotes resilience and will help you continue to serve your couples well.”
Remember, services like advertising and digital tools aren’t impacted by the current tariffs. That means your presence on places like The Knot and WeddingWire remains one of the most stable, controllable parts of your business plan.
WeddingPro also offers free business education and community events to help pros navigate changes like these. From contract tips to marketing strategies, these resources are built to help you grow—no matter what’s happening in the global economy.
Because staying informed, visible and connected isn’t just about survival. It’s strategy.
Please note: The Knot, WeddingPro and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, legal, financial or tax advice and should not be used as such. You should always consult with your professional advisors about your specific circumstances. This information contained herein is not necessarily exhaustive, complete, accurate or up to date. In addition, we do not take responsibility for information contained in any external links, over which we have no control.
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