Do You Need a Wedding Planner?

Many couples don’t have prior experience planning a special occasion such as a wedding. There are many details to plan and coordinate; so hiring a wedding planner is an option to consider seriously. Once there is a provisional wedding date and draft guest list, you are ready to ask: “Do we need a wedding planner?” This introductory guide will describe benefits of hiring a wedding coordinator and ideas for planning on your own.

What is a Wedding Planner?

A wedding planner is an event planner who has experience organizing marriage celebrations. He or she may be called a wedding planner, coordinator, consultant, or arranger. Services may include event planning, negotiation of service contracts, venue decoration, and on-the-day coordination. The specific services to be provided by a consultant are outlined in a written contract.

There are many details to arrange and keep track of when organizing a wedding.  Venues must be booked and decorated, caterers engaged, colours chosen, invitations printed, bridal outfits purchased, cake ordered, and the list goes on.  Planning a wedding is almost like having a second job.  Wedding planners relieve couples of a very time-consuming and sometimes stressful task.
An experienced wedding coordinator has some or all of the following qualities and skills:

• Knowledge of the wedding industry and ability to recommend the best venues and service providers.
• Contract negotiation skills for arranging quality service packages, at the best price, from licensed venues, printers, florists, caterers, photographers, videographers, cake designers and other service providers.
• In depth knowledge of wedding protocols and practices.
• Budget management and monitoring experience.
• Scheduling and time line management skills.
• Sense of colour, fashion, and creativity.

There is still work for a couple to do, even with a coordinator on board.  Before the planner is hired, there are preliminary decisions and questions to be dealt with, such as:

• What is our budget for this event?
• How many guests will be invited?  and
• Will the venue be classy or casual?
• If you need assistance drawing up a realistic budget, initial meetings with a planner may be useful.

A planner does most of the leg work, but you as a couple make important choices along the way.  With the help of a planner your options will be narrowed down; and you’ll have the comfort of expert advice.  Some decisions require a few appointments and meetings—for example, choosing the wedding dress and bridesmaids’ wardrobe may take time.  Similarly, couples often want to be involved when arranging the cake—looking at and tasting samples, and finally deciding on flavours and design.

Wedding planners have different types of payment plans.  Some charge on a flat rate basis, some charge hourly, and others charge a percentage of the overall event cost.  Before hiring a planner get references and information from friends.  Consult with two or three planners; compare services, rates, and billing methods.  Ask each consultant whether they will be able to use their business experience to reduce costs, and by how much.  Sometimes savings gained from hiring a consultant are about as high as the consultants’ fees.

What if You Decide to Plan On Your Own?

Couples who decide to plan their wedding without a planner do not have to do it completely on their own.  Often licensed wedding venues provide coordination services.  They assist with ordering flowers, catering, decorating, arranging entertainment, and staffing.  Another possible resource is an interior decorator, known as a “venue dresser”.  A venue dresser takes on the task of decorating a venue—from the chairs to the chandeliers and flowers.

There are tools on offer for couples who choose to do their own planning. Some of these tools are also useful for couples who hire a planner.

Look in bookstores, arts and craft stores, and online for books and guides. Some come with file pockets for each aspect of planning, such as guest lists, venues, ceremony, invitations, and wardrobe. Use file pockets for information, contracts, receipts, business cards, fabric swatches, and photos. There are also specific planning aids for various tasks, such as budget management, invitations, seating charts, and visual design.

Still uncertain whether or not to hire a planner?  Why not start looking for planners to help you decide.  Research websites, read reviews, and book a few consultations.  The enquiry process provides an introduction to wedding planning, which can be useful, even for those who decide to organize on their own.  It also gives an idea of what it will be like arranging service providers, such as venues and caterers.  Whatever route you take, remember to regularly take to time to relax; so you can fully enjoy the special day when it finally arrives.