[ad_1]
Why Hire a Planner?
Choosing to have a professional on-hand is a key way to ensure that on your wedding day, you're simply batting in newlywed bliss – not looking for an extension cord to help an ill-prepared DJ! A planner can give your event a professional edge, including a seamless sense of continuity between all the aspects of your wedding. A great planner will work with you to develop a timeline, a budget, and all the other details. He or she will also be able to give you etiquette advice, style suggestions, and great resources. Being in the wedding industry means developing relationships with cake designers, avenues, bands, and shops – so your wedding planner will become a great resource for you!
Finding the Perfect Planner
The best way to find a wedding planner is by word of mouth – either through friends, collections or family, or by reading reviews from other brides. These days, many wedding planners showcase their work in local magazines, websites, and blogs. This can give you a great feel for a planner's style and ability. Choose two or three wedding planners to meet with or talk with on the phone.
Meet the Planner
It's important to meet with the wedding planner to establish a relationship and ensure that you will be able to share a vision for your big day. Ask to see a portfolio, and talk about what you are planning for your wedding. A good wedding planner will work with your vision to help turn it into a reality! It's also important to discuss budget and expectations during your preliminary meeting.
Choose a Package
Most wedding planners offer three packages: full planning, partial planning, and day-of coordination. Depending on budget and need, you'll need to select the package that's right for you. You'll need to think about how much time you have to invest in the wedding. If you are looking forward to all the details, there's no reason to book a full planning package. If you just want a professional to be onsite during the celebrations, then day of coordination is right for you. Finding yourself somewhere in the middle? Partial planning might be the way to go! Most wedding coordinators would also be happy to make a special package just for you, so do not be afraid to ask for "a la carte" services.
A Wedding Planner
On a Budget If you'd like to have a planner hep you with your wedding but are not sure it's in the cards, do not worry. Many up-and-coming wedding planners would be happy to help with your wedding for free or at a discounted price, in order to build their portfolio!
Review the Contract
Just like any relationship, it's important to discuss expectations before you sign on the dotted line. Read the contract carefully, and ensure that you are okay with all the details. Your wedding planner will likely require a deposit to start planning, and the balance will be due just before the wedding.
Once you've selected your wedding planner, it's time to work together to start making arrangements for your wedding. Arrange some meetings and a basic planning timeline – and let the planning begin!
