We typically install granite first and later follow with appliances.

Granite is a.) heavier and b.) more durable than appliances. It's much easier to polish out any possible scratches from granite than it is to fix a damaged stainless steel appliance.

The only caveat I would ad, is to have the appliances onsite when the tops are template. That way, template crew has exact measurements, model #'s and correct info, first hand. I have always done this process this way, with no botched tops ever. Money saved, everyone happy.