Finding the right planner is one of the most important parts of the wedding planning process. You should be sure to talk to a few different planners before making any decisions. This will help open your eyes to the different styles and services that are offered, and ultimately which one is best for you. I also recommend reviewing client feedback not just from the website – try to speak to one or two clients as well; find out how the process went for them. Here are a few other ways to tell if a wedding planner is good fit for you…
Do you enjoy spending time together?
Countless hours will be spent discussing intimate topics and details such as close family, personal funds, and other sensitive areas – either in person, via phone, skype etc. Make sure this is someone you are comfortable with and most importantly trust. A good rule of thumb is to hire someone you feel you could be friends with, after your event is over.
Is your planner is open to your ideas and vendor suggestions
Some planners have preferred vendors, but they should be willing to hear your suggestions and run with them – it is your wedding after all!
A good planner will be honest and open from the beginning in regards to budget
Even if they aren’t saying what you want to hear, the good planners will speaking numbers right from the start and not sugar-coat the real costs with you
Is your planner is super organized?
The best planners keep meticulous records of details from your initial meetings and continue to bring up these details throughout the process. Your planner schedules appointments with yourself (if you’re available) and suppliers and keeps everything organized for you and sends reminders before appointments!
The planner you chose should be assertive
You want someone who can represent you in a knowledgeable way and keep the other suppliers organized
Your planner should be calm under pressure
If your planner appears stressed out, you (and your guests) will feed off stress. When you speak to previous clients check that everything ran smoothly for them and their planner was an expert at this
Your planner remains professional
Although you may have picked someone who could be your new best friend, they should remain professional throughout the process, you meet up for cocktails after the honeymoon!
You know you have the correct planner if you are relaxed and are enjoying the process
You may feel a little stressed from time to time as situations crop up that’s only natural but it shouldn’t be a stressful whirlwind for 9 or 12 months – that is what your planner is for. If you can enjoy most of it, your planner is doing their job
Laugh
You should be able to laugh with your planner – they should have a good sense of humour and shouldn’t overload you and know when to have a moment to laugh