Certified Vendors are those that have submitted their application and met all of the qualifications. Vendors are reviewed annually and we do insist upon keeping the integrity of the list. Look for our label on their site. Be sure to check for the year in the label.
How will I know if a vendor is certified?
There are number of ways to find out if a vendor is a SDWS Certified Vendor. The vendor will have a notation on their listing in the directory, They may be displaying the label on their website, blog or other materials. You can also ask them to e-mail you their acceptance into the program as they will receive this with their confirmation.
Why do I want to select a certified vendor?
For peace of mind that your vendor is reputable and has been vetted through a thorough process. Certified Vendors have experience and professionalism to contribute to your wedding. All certified vendors have at the bare minimum a sales tax license, web presence and two years in the business. We will be sure to get each and every vendor on the phone before approving their application. You can be assured that a SDWS Certified Vendor has a real person running the business. If you look further down you can see all of the questions that will be required of a vendor during the application process.
Do certified vendors pay to be on the list?
No. You can not buy your way into SDWS Certification. You must complete an application, be checked and approved. All vendors pay a small fee to be listed on the site and a one-time application fee. Once a vendor is listed on the site they can apply for certification. The one-time application fee to off-site the time it takes to check references and prepare the listing.
What is the difference between a certified vendor and a elite certified vendor?
In addition to meeting all of the requirement for certified vendor a elite certified vendor has had a registered business for a minimum of five years. They must also have a minimum of three vendor referral from certified vendors. A elite vendor will also have serviced a minimum of 50 weddings.
How do I become a certified vendor?
If you are a South Dakota Vendor (or area vendor regularly servicing SD) currently listed with SDWS you may apply to become a certified vendor. There is a small non-refundable application fee of $50 to submit with your application. The application can be found on our vendor resources page.
What if I have had a problem with a certified vendor?
If you have had an adverse experience with one of our certified vendors please let us know so that we may investigate. While we do not resolve your issues for you we do want to keep up the integrity of the program and appreciate your input.
