I have no experience with photographers, and I really do not even know what the cost for a service like this would be. I feel stupid calling someone blind and not even knowing what to ask. Can anyone give me some advice on questions that I should ask a potential photographer? Also what a ballpark figure for a wedding photographer? Thanks!

There is a list of questions for photographers on the knot.com under photography. It's pretty thorough.
Don't forget to ask:
How many weddings they've shot?
What happens if they get sick?
What kind of camera they use?
How long until you get your prints.?
Do I get a computer disc of pictures? is it copyrighted?
is there a minimum package?
Do I have to buy an album?
Are you the only person I can get reprints from?
Do you offer a photo album online for friends and family to order from?
Do you offer a discount for friday/sunday?

I would really figure out what you want in a photographer before you interview anyone. What is important to you? how do you want your wedding pictures to feel. Find some examples in wedding magazines of what you like and brig it to the interview. Trust your gut. If you don't trust them, move on!

Costs can really vary. I live in Metro Atlanta. Cheapest here is about $800 for no-frills service and goes up to over $10,000!
My engaged friend got a great photographer she loves who is nice and can meet her style for $1500.

Girl I am in that same position. But I agree with the other answer.. You need to know what there work looks like. Ask them what kind of pictures they take. When you choose someone though, don't be afraid to let them know exactly what you want. I mean that is what your paying them for right?

Start by going to google:

Type in the city/state where you are located and "photographer"

Ex: Nashville photographer

It should bring up a bunch of hits (depending on where you live)

Sort through the ones u like (check out their sample images)
Most have wedding package prices listed on the website

This can get pretty pricey. $100- the sky's the limit. I've seen $10,000 packages where the photographer travels to whereever you need them.

Most likely, professionals will charge 400-1000

Good answers so far. Definitely ask to see his/her work. Get some ideas from the web on what you may want...if they are not in his portolio, ask if he can do them.
Also, ask him about how many posed shots and how many candid shots he does.
One VERY important question to ask is how he works to keep the "flow" going...in other words, how quickly can he shoot some pictures between the wedding and the reception?
Again, have some idea of what you want...if you start looking at his portfolio and get starry-eyed, saying "I love that" or "I want that"--you will be looking at a HUGE price. He is like any other businessman and will sell you what he can.

Ask yourself this: In 25 years, at our Silver Wedding Anniversary party, what pictures will I want to look back on? What is important to me?

It's your day...be a princess ....Good Luck!!!!