If you have never hired an event stylist before, the process can feel unclear. How does quoting work? What do you need to provide? When do you pay? What happens on the day? Consumer Affairs Victoria recommends understanding your rights and the vendor's obligations before signing any hire agreement — and this guide covers the entire process from first contact to pack-down, so you know exactly what to expect when booking iDo Events for your Melbourne celebration.
Step 1: Request a Quote
Start by submitting a quote request on our website, calling us on 0406 179 786, or sending a message on Instagram (@ido.eventss). To give you an accurate quote, we need:
- Event type: Birthday, wedding, baby shower, engagement, mehndi, corporate, etc.
- Date: When is your event?
- Guest count: Approximate number (this helps us recommend the right scale of styling)
- Venue or location: Where is it being held? (home, venue name, park, etc.)
- What you are interested in: Balloon garland, arch, draping, dessert table styling, centrepieces, etc. (even a vague idea helps)
- Budget range (optional): If you have a budget in mind, sharing it helps us design within it
We respond within 1 hour during business hours (8am–9pm, 7 days). Our response includes a detailed quote with pricing for each element, photo references of suggested props, and any questions we have about your vision.
Step 2: Consultation (Free)
Once you are interested in moving forward, we schedule a consultation. This is usually done via phone, WhatsApp, or in person if you prefer. During consultation, we discuss:
- Your colour palette or theme
- Specific props you love (share Instagram screenshots — we work from visual references constantly)
- Your venue's specific requirements (we may already know the venue)
- Any cultural elements or traditions to incorporate
- The spatial layout — where should the backdrop go? Where is the dessert table?
After consultation, we send an updated quote reflecting the discussed design. No obligation at any point.
Step 3: Confirm Your Booking
To lock in your date, we require a $200 deposit. This is deducted from your total — it is not an additional fee. Once the deposit is paid, your date is secured and cannot be given to another client. This deposit structure is standard across the industry — ABIA notes that most Australian event vendors require between 20–30% upfront to secure a booking.
For bookings over $800, we offer a payment plan: deposit + 50% at 4 weeks before + remainder at 1 week before.
Step 4: Final Confirmation (1 Week Before)
One week before your event, we send a confirmation message covering:
- Final prop list and design summary
- Setup time (when our team will arrive)
- Access details (address, gate codes, which door, parking)
- Any last-minute changes or additions
- Weather backup plan (for outdoor events)
Final payment is due at this point (or earlier if you prefer).
Step 5: Setup Day
Our team arrives at your venue at the agreed time — typically 1.5–4 hours before your event depending on complexity. Here is what happens:
- We unload props and materials
- We walk the space and confirm positioning
- Structural elements go up first (arches, draping frames)
- Detail elements follow (centrepieces, signage, candles, balloon installations)
- Final check — everything photographed and perfect
- We leave cleanly (no packaging, no mess, no evidence we were there)
You do not need to be present for setup. Many clients (especially for surprise parties) prefer not to be. We have a contact number if any questions arise during setup.
Step 6: Your Event
Enjoy your event. The styling is done. If anything needs attention during the event (a candle goes out, a garland shifts), you can text us and we will advise or return if needed (rare, but we are available).
Step 7: Pack-Down
At a pre-agreed time after your event (usually 30–60 minutes after, or the next morning for evening events), we return to:
- Disassemble all props and installations
- Pack everything into cases and our van
- Leave the venue clean and clear (as if we were never there)
Pack-down is included in every booking. You do not need to help, supervise, or even be there.
What You Need to Provide
In most cases, nothing. We bring everything — props, frames, tools, cable ties, candles, the lot. The only things we do NOT provide are:
- The venue itself
- Food and drinks (we style the display, not the food)
- Tables and chairs (usually provided by the venue; if not, we can advise on hire companies)
- Fresh flowers (we use premium silk; if you want fresh, your florist provides those)
Common First-Time Questions
- "Can I change my mind about props after booking?" — Yes, adjustments are free up to 2 weeks before. After that, we do our best to accommodate.
- "What if something breaks during the event?" — Normal wear during events is expected and covered by us. You are not charged for accidental damage.
- "Do you work on public holidays?" — Yes, at no additional charge.
- "Can I see the props before booking?" — Yes. We can send photos/videos of specific items, or arrange a viewing appointment. You can also browse our past work on Easy Weddings and WedShed vendor profiles for independent reviews.
Ready to book your first event styling? Request a free quote or call us on 0406 179 786. No obligation, no pressure — just a conversation about making your celebration beautiful.
