Wedding planning is no easy task and can be even harder to maneuver if you decide on a destination wedding. There are so many questions and uncertainties and that is why many couples hire planners to help them pull off one of the biggest parties of their life without a hitch. When you hire a wedding planner, you're also obtaining someone who knows the ins and outs, the vendors, the rules, and the weather. They not only collaborate with you on the design of your wedding, but they also negotiate with and hire vendors and deal with those contracts; liaise with the venue; and troubleshooting. Believe me, you will appreciate their ability to master this. Convinced yet? If so, read on and make sure to take some notes.
The following are the most important questions you should ask any potential planner that you may be considering.
Talk Money
Before you can hire a planner, you need to know your budget. If a planner is something that you really want make sure to include this in the budget and at what percent you want to designate to this.
Here is what we consider our most important list of questions:
Do you charge a flat fee, a percentage of my total budget, an hourly amount, or some combo of all three?
Will you charge for things like mileage and office supplies used for my wedding?
Do you take a commission from any of the vendors you refer us to?
What do you require for a deposit?
When is the final payment due?
Do we need to pay our vendors directly, or do we pay you and you handle it?
Are there additional fees I should know about?
Understand the extent of their services
Keep in mind that all planners differ, find the one that best suits the needs of you and your fiancé. After making sure they're available on your date, make sure to ask how much time they will allot for you during your engagement. Some planners will limit their communication.
Additional questions you can ask, some may not apply but if they do, ask them:
Will you go with me to the dress fittings?
Will you mail out the save-the-date cards and invitations?
Do you also plan events surrounding the wedding, like the rehearsal dinner, welcome reception, excursions?
If our event is outside, will you put a contingency plan in place in case of bad weather?
Do you work with a team? Will they be on-site at the wedding?
Will you go with us to meet with other vendors?
What parts, if any, of the planning process are we solely responsible for?
Get to know your planner and her team, if this applies. You have to work with a planner you love, so personality is important. If you're a hands-off type of bride, you may not mind if they check in with you every other week or as necessary. If, however, you want a little bit more hand-holding, you need to know how available they'll be to you during the planning process.
Other important questions, they may not seem important but you will be glad you asked:
How many times do you meet with clients during the planning process?
Do you prefer to communicate in person, phone, or e-mail?
Can you provide a list of references that I can contact?
What time will you arrive on the day of the wedding?
How long will you stay?
Will you require a meal?
If you can DREAM it, we can Plan it ❤