1) Why do I need to hire a wedding planner?
A wedding planner was once thought to only be a luxury but over the course of this past decade wedding planners have gained popularity. A planner will bring expertise in negotiating contracts with caterers, florists, photographers, and other suppliers, they will save valuable time and money. A planner can offer discounts from their preferred vendors that are reliable to making a successful event.
2) When should I book a wedding planner?
Now that you are engaged and have shared the fabulous news with your family begin to set a date and start immediately interviewing planners. A planner is best to have from the start because they can guide you with what to expect through the planning process as well as help design your wedding concept and recommend vendors. In addition, they will help you set a budget and allocate the proper amounts to each line item.
3) How long does it take to plan a wedding?
It was quoted that it takes 250 hours to plan a wedding. Typically weddings are planned within one year of your big day. If you have your mind set on specific venue they can book up pretty far in advance. Also, certain photographers, bands and caterers require 8-10 months to be available for your date.
4) What can I expect from a wedding planner?
Wedding planners are not their to make the decisions for your big day but instead provide options and suggestions based on their experience and knowledge. With today's hectic lifestyles they are there to relive much of the stress that comes along with planning a wedding. A planner who will be working with you for the entire wedding will be sure to keep you on track with your budget and come up with creative ideas to get you the most for your money. A full time planner will also serve in areas that are least expected, such as, a mediator with opinionated family members, problem slover to a brides best friend. When working with a bride for an entire year it is only logically that you will form a close relationship.
5) What is the difference between a wedding planner and a wedding coordinator?
A wedding planner is hired for full or partial planning and assists the couple with all tasks that need to be completed from start to finish. A wedding coordinator is a less expensive option to a planner. It is best for the bride who has done the majority of the planning and just needs a coordinator to help tie up the loose ends during the final month before the wedding.
6) What is the typical pricing for a wedding planner and wedding coordinator?
A wedding planner typically cost 10% - 15% of the overall budget based on amount of wedding (location and size of the wedding would impact the cost)
Hiring a coordinator for day of services is a flat rate between $1000 -$2,000. This will normally include coordination starting the final month of your wedding.
There are also planners who charge hourly for al la carte services. This could be, venue scouting, favor assembly, welcome bag delivery, RSVP management, etc. These services can range any where from $50 to $200 per hour.
7) How do I choose the right planner?
Personally, I believe this is all about compatibility. During the first meeting you essentially know if you will work well together. In addition to this check the planners background, credentials and past referrals. A planner should show you their past work and give you specific examples on how they contributed to the wedding. Lastly, does the planners proposal reflect what your are looking for and how did they follow up with you.
Hope this was a helpful article. Please feel free to contact me for more details
Milestone Events by Kristy
646-248-2102
milestoneevents@verizon.net
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