Wedding Planners: Should You Hire One?
You probably know people who have used a Wedding Planner. You probably have an idea about what they do. Depending on your vision of your wedding, you may want to consider working with a planner.
According to Wedding Expert, Emily Bedard, couples choose planners to help with:
*Destination weddings
*Out-of-town weddings
* Short amount of time to plan a wedding
*Large or extravagant wedding
If you choose a planner, you might wonder what distinguishes the many Wedding Planners from one another? How do you know which one is right for you?
*Do they just want to help you, or take the reins?
Each Wedding Planner has a style all their own. While some are laid back, letting you tell them what to do, some like to take over the planning completely, leaving little to nothing for you to do but plan the honeymoon. And some planners will even take charge of that. While some couples might think that’s wonderful to put all the details in the hands of a planner, make sure you and the planner can communicate before you hand over control. You don’t want to be disappointed or surprised on your wedding day
*What’s the cost? Is it worth it?
Most Wedding Planners will charge you a certain percentage of your budget to plan your wedding. Some will charge you a flat fee, while, others may charge an hourly rate.
Look at your budget before you meet with a planner. The cost of a planner can make your budget go further and take the stress of out planning your wedding. But before signing a contract, be clear on what you have to spend on both the planner’s fee and on the wedding. If you do decide to go with a Wedding Planner, be sure that you want to have and can afford the extra help.
*Do you get along?
Signing up with a Wedding Planner is like signing up for a new best friend. You will be spending a lot of time with this person, so make sure you are compatible. Spend time talking, ask for recommendations, look at the planner’s portfolio of work, and then think about all of it. Your planner should be invested on making your day just what you want and not in just doing another job
Not all Wedding Planners are certified. Those who are have taken courses and been trained to know everything there is about wedding planning. When choosing your planner, ask questions about experience and training, successful events, and most importantly, how they can make your wedding a special day.
Whomever you choose, certified or not, should belong to the Association of Bridal Consultant members. They agree to uphold the ABC Code of Ethics and Standards of Membership, assuring you that they will help you in any way they can.
When thinking about hiring a Wedding Planner, consider the following according to Emily Bedard:
*You have the help of an expert working along side you,
*There’s a decrease in stress and anxiety for you and your fiancée,
* Their knowledge can help you save time and money,
*They have a working relationship with vendors.
By: Jessica Dempsey