You’ve revelled in your engagement for a few days and now you can't wait to get jiggy with planning. First up, set the date—that’s the easy part—then, it’s on to all the other things that will need to get done. There’s the matter of the venue, your officiant, choosing flowers, picking the bridal party, booking the photographer, videographer, transportation, selecting invites, reception decor...and the beat goes on...and on...and on...
The good news? There’s help, and it can be very affordable. If you’ve been toying with the idea of hiring an event specialist, but are unsure about what she can actually do for you, let us discuss the miraculous wonders of the wedding planner.
Taking the ’Zilla Out of Bridezilla
The main function of a wedding planner is to understand the needs and desires of your wedding. That person is then responsible for finding the best vendors out there for you. After you’ve made the decision to hire a service provider, your wedding planner will negotiate with that vendor. They will also be on-site on your W-day to ensure contracted services are fulfilled on a timely basis according to your budget. Some planners may be able to negotiate discounts, or for a few little extras to be thrown in, from vendors they work with on a consistent basis.
Services You Can Afford
The most common misconception about hiring a wedding planner is that she will blow your budget. If you want a full-service package, it’s going to cost you, but many planners are available for hourly consultations at any stage of your wedding planning.
Bottom line: a wedding planner can be as involved, or as hands-off as you want her to be, and she will not take charge of your wedding, but rather act as a neutral sounding board.
Your Planner Can Help You Save!
And by this we mean save many things: money, energy and sanity!
Money: A good planner will inform you of hidden costs, like the taxes and gratuities of (brace yourself) 31 percent on the per person menu charge.
Energy: Having your planner on-site day of ensures things run smoothly and may even help you save face, especially if your groom or a member of your bridal party has overindulged during the cocktail hour.
Sanity: What do you do when the reception venue staff has placed your chairs in the wrong configuration? Nothing! A good wedding planner will immediately step in and make sure that everything runs according to plan.
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