How to Choose & Nurture Trusted Event Supplier

How to Choose & Nurture a Trusted Event Supplier

Choosing a trusted service provider is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning an event. When supplier expectations aren’t met on the day, it can leave a lasting negative impact. That’s why we’ve pulled together five practical tips to help you find and nurture a reliable event partner.

1. Prioritise Reputation

Look beyond the website polish — dig into real feedback. Ask for references, speak to past clients, and check review platforms. Suppliers who take pride in their service will happily share client contacts and transparent testimonials.

2. Conduct Quality Audits End-to-End

A thorough quality check isn’t just a one-time review — it’s ongoing. Before booking, assess the supplier’s service delivery standards, and afterward, request feedback to help continuously improve. A trusted partner is open to asking and offering constructive feedback.

3. Build Win‑Win Partnerships

Avoid a short-sighted price-first approach. If you push suppliers too far on cost, the quality may suffer. Trust is built on mutual respect and realistic pricing — both sides should benefit from the arrangement.

4. Check Their Contingency Plans

Even the best suppliers can face issues. Ask them how they’ll respond if equipment fails or staff are unavailable. A provider with backup systems and crisis-response plans protects your event from last-minute chaos.

5. Communicate Early & Often

From timeline updates to guest numbers or format changes, make sure your supplier is in the loop. A reliable supplier appreciates clear, early communication — it gives them the best chance to deliver flawlessly.

By working with AO Events, you get more than just a supplier – you get a partner. We provide Public Liability Insurance, PAT-tested gear, and experienced event knowledge to deliver consistently first‑class service. Repeat clients and trusted venue relationships speak to our reliability.

If you want to chat about what makes a supplier trustworthy — or explore our full range of event services across Cheshire — we’re here to help!