7 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Wedding Planner
Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, with countless details to coordinate and decisions to make. Hiring a wedding planner can alleviate some of the stress and ensure that your special day is everything you dreamed it would be. However, not all wedding planners are created equal. Before you choose a wedding planner, there are some key questions you should ask to ensure they are the right fit for you.
WHAT EXPERIENCE DO YOU HAVE?
Before hiring a wedding planner, it's important to know their level of experience. Ask about their background, how long they've been in business, and what types of weddings they have planned. An experienced wedding planner can offer valuable advice, has established relationships with vendors, and can help ensure your wedding runs smoothly.
WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?
Wedding planners offer a range of services, from full-service planning to day-of coordination. Make sure you understand what services the planner offers and what is included in each package. Some planners may also offer additional services, such as design or styling, so be sure to ask about these as well.
WHat is your pricing structure?
Wedding planners may charge a flat fee, a percentage of your total wedding budget, or an hourly rate. Make sure you understand the pricing structure and what is included in the fee. Be sure to ask about any additional costs, such as travel expenses or vendor fees.
HOW DO YOU HANDLE COMMUNICATION?
Clear communication is essential when planning a wedding. Ask the wedding planner how they prefer to communicate and how often. Will you have regular meetings or phone calls, or will most communication be via email? It's also important to ask about their response time and how they handle last-minute changes or emergencies.
CAN YOU PROVIDE REFERENCES?
Before hiring a wedding planner, it's important to check their references. Ask for a list of past clients and contact them to ask about their experience working with the planner. You can also check online reviews and ratings to get a sense of their reputation in the industry.
How do you handle vendor selection?
Wedding planners often work with a network of vendors, such as caterers, florists, and photographers. Ask the planner how they select vendors and what criteria they use. It's also important to know if the planner receives any kickbacks or commissions from vendors they recommend.
How do you handle unexpectant situations?
Despite careful planning, unexpected situations can arise on your wedding day. Ask the planner how they handle unexpected situations, such as a vendor canceling or inclement weather. It's important to know that the planner has a backup plan in place and is prepared to handle any emergencies.