What vendors receive a meal and a seat at the reception?

Definitely provide meals for them. I would ask them individually if they want or need a seat. As a photographer, since I'm busy running around photographing moments throughout the night, I don't sit down, but I do eat when I can find a slow moment to do so. Some vendors may have time to sit, some may not, ask each one

Meals for the vid, photog, dj , but they probably won't sit. I'd ask your venue what they usually do.

The coordinator doesn't need a seat or a meal. Technically, she is an an employee, just like the waiters.

They all need to be offered a meal. And make sure the vendor meals at your venue aren't just a boxed cold cut sandwich with a bag of chips (that is the definition of a vendor meal at some venues). They're working hard and should be offered the same food you and your guests are eating.

@Keri One of the caterers that I'm considering using has a "boxed vendor" meal option because it has been specifically requested so often by vendors of other brides. I'm not saying that you should just assume and go with the boxed meal, but definitely ask your vendor which option he/she/they would prefer. I guess some of them don't like having to try to sit and eat with utensils and would rather just grab and go.

Thank you! I'll be sure to ask each vendor individually. I'm asking because I'm trying to figure out how many tables/centerpieces I will need!

@Panda That does make sense. I remember a vendor a while back said that they've had a couple of REALLY good "boxed" meals but some have been gross.

Ask your vendors... and ask your venue how they usually handle this. My Vendor meals are the same as my guest meals they are just half priced. I also wouldn't think the coordinator gets a meal she's an employee of the venue... only outside vendor meals are you responsible for i would think. I also don't agree with the boxed sandwich option... these people are busting their ass for me i want to treat them as good as i would my guests...

I paid for 5 extra they will not have a seat, but the place offered me a special price for them, since they shouldnt drink...

I asked my venue what they normally do for seating for vendor meals so I could plan accordingly. They have a separate space with tables/chairs for them, so I didn't have to factor that into my seating arrangements, so I would just explicitly ask.

I provided meals for photographers, videographer, and band members. That was actually written in their contracts (I would've provided one anyways!)

Not to high jack, but sort of along the same lines... what about drivers for shuttle bus? Do they normally come in? I was going to make the offer but a fellow bride said that was weird. I feel bad the poor guy is going to be sitting alone in his bus for 3 - 4 hours.

I had seats for the photographer, her assistant (they wanted to sit with the guests in case photo opportunities came about), and a seat for the bus driver (though he didn't accept it he just wanted to nap on the bus), I provided a meal to the DJ but he ate it at his table. I only had the four vendors to feed.

Kristy, no problem! That's a really good question. I would think you should to be nice, but I have no idea what proper etiquette is for that situation