The pandemic has canceled many weddings, but the wedding industry isn’t gone entirely. Many are still getting married, although plans will have changed due to restrictions. Even after the world moves on from this, it would have already a permanent effect on the wedding culture.
This is the perfect example of why you need a wedding planner. Emergencies happen, a last-minute change of plans is not uncommon, and the wedding industry is experiencing changes often, small or big.
Wedding planners make things possible even during impossible times. But first, you need the best planner for you. Consider these things when choosing a wedding planner.
1. Communication
From your initial inquiry to discussing the wedding, keep an eye on how they communicate with you. Here are a few things to look out for:
- Do they respond reasonably fast?
- Are they polite and courteous when talking to you?
- Do they address all your concerns?
The way they communicate is crucial throughout the planning process. When you have emergencies, such as a supplier backing out at the last minute, they’ll be the one to handle that.
Their role is to make things easier for the couple and lessen your stress. If they’re the source of your stress due to their super late responses or judging remarks, then they’re not a good planner.
They must also be good at listening. You should be able to communicate your preferences to them so they can bring your ideas to life.
2. Terms of Service
Look at their service terms to see if they’re the right fit for you. Check what services they provide, how hands-on they are, and how you can reach them.
Do they provide unlimited consultation? Can you meet whenever you like? How can you reach them?
These are some of the considerations you need to check. The terms also include the price, which we’ll discuss below.
3. Price
Of course, you should also take the prices into account. Wedding planners for celebrities, for instance, might be way out of your budget. But, you don’t need one most of the time, anyway.
Know that there’s a good planner for every budget. You don’t have to get the most expensive services to get quality service.
What matters most is that the wedding planner charges a fair price. Their pricing will vary depending on what roles they’ll take in your wedding.
You may want a planner only for specific tasks, for example, or you may only need their services on the wedding day. These would demand lower prices than if you need full planning services, in which they’ll be with you from beginning to end and involved in all areas.
See their pricing structure, as well, and see if it’s agreeable to you. They should be upfront about their rates, and you should be upfront about your budget, too.
Some charge a flat fee, while others have an hourly rate. Some might also have extra charges based on your other needs and vendors.
4. Vendor Network
Speaking of vendors, it’s worth looking into the planner’s network, too. If they have lots of experience, they’ll have established connections with a lot of other vendors, such as for catering, cake, and entertainment.
This makes it easier on your end to book and choose suppliers. And, if you trust your wedding planner, you’ll trust that they’ll recommend a good vendor for your wedding, too. They might even be able to book an unreachable vendor for you.
Another advantage is that you might get a discount on some services. Don’t expect this to happen all the time, but the vendor and planner might be able to work something out to give you a lower price, especially if they have a good relationship. If it happens, be grateful to both of them.
5. Portfolio
Make sure to take a look at the wedding planner’s portfolio, too. It must match or, at the least, be close to what you want your wedding to be.
Although the styling is up to your stylist, you can an idea of the planner’s experiences through their portfolio. It will have a common theme; see if it fits your idea of your wedding.
Are their weddings big and grand, or are they more simple and intimate? Do they have a specialization?
If yes, make sure they specialize in your type of wedding. Otherwise, you may have to find another planner who’s more experienced in this area.
You can also see if the planner has done a wedding at your venue. If you have a theme in mind, check their portfolio to see if they’ve already done something similar.
6. Personality
Their price and quality of service aren’t the only things that matter. You should also be able to develop a good relationship with your planner.
As such, their character and personality will matter when choosing. You should feel comfortable around them, and you should be able to trust them. Otherwise, you may have a strained relationship, which can affect the outcome of your wedding.
They must also understand that weddings are stressful for the bride. There might be times when the bridezilla in you might rear its head, but they should be able to stay calm to keep you calm, too.
7. References and Reviews
The best references you can get are from the previous customers of the wedding planner. If you can, ask them what it’s like to work with the planner.
If they have planning experience but don’t have any references, that’s a red flag.
You can also join groups on Facebook or wedding forums, wherein you can find reviews of wedding vendors from brides and grooms. You might be able to get valuable recommendations in these places.
Find the Right Wedding Planner For You
Looking for the right wedding planner is only one task out of many others in your wedding checklist, but it can still be a stressful one. Ensure you have the right one to get you through your dream wedding.
Contact us today to find event planners and entertainment for weddings. We can provide the best in the business, so what are you waiting for?