Dear The Bridal Guru,
I have mixed feelings about hiring a wedding planner. I want this wedding to be my wedding not the planner’s wedding. I have heard some horror stories of planners that did what they wanted to make themselves look good. A friend of mine used one that received kickbacks from wedding professionals and the wedding was horrible. This particular wedding planner made my friend, the bride, cry. However, most of my friends say that wedding planners are not that way and will actually make my life easier and will save me money. What do you think: a wedding planner or not?
Confused Bride
Dear Confused Bride,
Listen to your friends. They are right. The right wedding planner will make your life easy!!! A good wedding planner will abide by your wishes, your dreams, your budget. They take on the stress of the day so you and your Mother can enjoy all the festivities. Further, any wedding planner that is getting kickbacks or commissions from wedding professionals that are being used for your wedding is double dipping, in my opinion. That’s not right. That’s not ethical. And from your description of one your friends have used, obviously, not professional. Ask brides about planners they have used and talk to wedding professionals and see who they recommend. Weddings, although one of life’s most happy occasions can sometimes be very stressful. A wedding planner will handle all the details to make certain that your day is one to remember for all the right reasons. When you hire a wedding planner, it’s a partnership. Some helpful hints for having a better working relationship include:
- Be realistic about your priorities, budget and time.
- Have an idea of the number of guests, the location of engagement parties, ceremony, reception, rehearsal dinner and showers.
- Let you wedding planner know the feel of your event. Do you want it be casual or formal, a sit-down dinner or buffet, alcohol or alcohol free? Have some ideas for the menu or food you prefer, the flowers and design, the type of photography and videography you prefer plus music and entertainment.
- Do you want a string quartet for your ceremony? Do you want a DJ or a band for the reception? Are you going to have a photo booth or games for more guest involvement?
- Think about special services that you may want: Audio visual and sound services, dance floor, lighting, special draping, and custom linens.
The wedding planner’s expertise will help guide you in all these decisions so you have the wedding of your dreams. Finally, when making plans with your wedding planner, discuss accommodations for your out of town guests and your wedding night as part of your overall plan. Include in this discussion, transportation for you and your wedding party and, possibly, your out-of-town guests. I know it’s a lot. That’s why you really need a wedding planner to handle all this so you can enjoy the parties, showers, the wedding and reception and everything in between.
The Bridal Guru
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For wedding planners in Mississippi, go to www.premierbridems.com/wedding-consultants-coordinators