This question has been asked many times by brides each and every year. I am sure that many brides ask the question "should count my wedding vendors in the head count for the meal?" A true professional will not expect it, but will definitely appreciate the gesture.

Something to keep in mind, it that your wedding photographer and DJ will be spending upwards of 10 hours just on preparation and services for your wedding day. This means that they might be running low on energy if they are not able to get something into their stomachs. Some wedding companies will have a stipulation in their contract that states they must be fed while attending the reception. Not everyone should be considered for the seating during the dinner. A majority of brides will fix this problem by having a vendor table and inviting their photographer, DJ, videographer, wedding planner to have a seat at it. This also works well, because then all these people will have something in common to easily talk about.

Depending on the reception, some meals run upwards of $40 a plate. You will also already have all your family and friends in the seating for the meal portion of the reception. So you will have to make the call on what you think is appropriate. If you are considering having a vendor table, consult with them if they are bringing any assistants. However, when your wedding vendor gets a name card done in calligraphy with their name on it, they will get that warm feeling inside.