Maine & NH Wedding Photographer // Help! My Wedding Vendor Ghosted Me—Now What?

So you did your research, booked the vendor, signed the contract, maybe even sent in the payment… and then poof. Gone. They’ve vanished faster than your willpower at a dessert table.

First of all: breathe. You’re not the first couple this has happened to, and unfortunately, you won’t be the last. But you can recover—your day isn’t ruined, it just needs a quick Plan B.

Here’s what to do if a vendor ghosts you:

1. Double-Check Before Panicking

Sometimes “ghosting” is really just someone being terrible at communication. Give it one last shot:

• Call, text, and email.

• Check their business social media (sometimes vendors post emergencies or life events).
  If you hear nothing after multiple tries? Yep, you’ve been ghosted.

2. Dig Out Your Contract

This is where that unsexy but very important contract earns its keep. Look at:

• Cancellation clauses

• Refund policies

• What happens if the vendor doesn’t show
  If they broke their own contract, you may be able to take legal action later.

3. Call in Your Reliable Vendors

This is why working with pros matters. Ask your planner, photographer, DJ—whoever you do trust—if they have recommendations. Vendors know who’s reliable in their circle, and chances are they’ve got a backup they actually love working with.

4. Ask Other Couples

Hop into wedding groups and say, “Help! My florist ghosted me, who do you trust?” Couples are usually brutally honest about their experiences (which is exactly what you need).

5. Be Open to Pivoting

Sometimes you may not get the exact vendor type you wanted at the last minute. Be open to alternatives:

• Makeup artist ghosted? Try a salon that specializes in bridal looks.

• DJ disappeared? Ask if your venue knows someone or consider a pro playlist + sound system.

• Florist bailed? Grocery store flowers + a family member with Pinterest skills can save the day in a pinch.

6. Protect Yourself Going Forward

• Always pay with a method that leaves a trail (credit card, not cash).

• Book vendors with established reputations and reviews.

• Don’t skip the insurance + contract questions next time.

Getting ghosted sucks, no doubt. But the good news is: weddings are built on teamwork. If one person bails, there are a ton of other talented vendors who will show up for you. The best part? When you find replacements through trusted referrals, you’ll likely end up with people who are not only reliable but who genuinely care about making your day badass.