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Hiring a Wedding Planner

Here’s what you need to know to find the perfect match…

Find Your Pro

Once you’ve determined what services you’d like to hand over to a pro – scout out a few in your area.  The www.elegala.com local vendor directory is a great place to start.  Then schedule some phone or face-to-face consultations with a few that strike your fancy.

Ask the Right Questions

During the consultation, you need figure out whether you’ll work well together.  It’s best to come prepared with the right questions:

1. The Know How – Does the planner offer all the services you need?  Come prepared with a list of things you’d like help with, and review your list together. 

2. Money Talks – Does the planner’s service fees work within your budget, and is the planner able to commit to your total wedding budget while planning your event? 

3. The Right Connections – Does the planner have a network of reliable professionals and can s/he refer you to those that match your style and budget? 

4. Prime Negotiator – Will the planner be able to help you save on any aspects of your wedding – either by negotiating the best prices, scoring vendor discounts or obtaining added extras? 

5. Etiquette Guru – Is the planner knowledgeable on etiquette matters, and can s/he steer you in the right direction?

6. Trend Savvy – Is the planner in-the-know on the latest wedding trends and styles? 
7. Straight Troubleshooter - Can the planner coordinate all logistics with vendors and the wedding party to ensure everything runs smoothly?  With a professional on hand – you should be able to enjoy your day like a guest and leave the details to them. 

8. Personality Plus - In the end, it’s all about a positive relationship and trust. Do you like this person?  Try to get a sense for how well you think you’ll work together. 

9. Always the Professional - Ask to see the planner’s business license, professional organization membership or any indication that s/he is a certified business professional and not just moonlighting as a wedding planner. 

10. Seal of Approval – Ask to see reference letters.  Be wary if s/he cannot provide any.

Sign on the Dotted Line

After you’ve determined that you would like to work together, it’s time to sign the contract.  Make sure that all services discussed are listed on the contract along with the total cost.  Also make sure a pre-discussed cancellation policy is included on the contract.