Honestly, not every wedding planner is for every bride. And, there are a lot of wedding planners out there. So how do you choose the right one? It's simple. You have to pick someone who is the absolute best fit for YOU.
Your engagement is the start of your partnership in marriage. So, you should partner with eachother when choosing your wedding planner. Find someone who you both agree on. Be sure to do an extensive initial meeting or consultation, in person or by phone or skype, with the planner(s) you're considering. I always request that the bride and groom both take part in my initial getting acquainted meetings.
Here's what you should be looking for:
First and foremost, you have to find someone you like and who you are comfortable with. You are going to be spending a lot of time with them. And you need to be able to share your honest opinions with them. A good planner will wear many hats, so be sure yours can wear them well: planner, mediator, designer, negotiator, friend, liason, listener, advisor...the list goes on.
You'll need a planner who has options that work for you, and within your budget. See who can offer different service packages or programs and, if none of those are a perfect fit for you, customization of the services you need. If the "look" of your wedding is a priority to you, make sure that your planner has some design background. Some planners offer planning and coordination only, while others can also handle your wedding decor design.
Look for a planner that works with a variety of vendors instead of the same ones for each event they plan. A planner with this versatility will match you with vendors who are best suited to your event style and budget. It also keeps them in touch with current trends and unique vendors that can really personalize your wedding.
A planner should be a "Double E"---experienced and excited! Find someone who loves what they do and is dedicated to their field. Ask if they're a wedding planner full time or if they're a part time planner on the side of another full time job. Look at photographs of events they've produced. Show them your ideas and see what ideas they can offer to bring your vision to life. If someone is passionate about what they do, you'll know. Trust me, if you want that dream wedding, you'll want a planner who is passionate.
One more thing...don't base your decision so much on price. In the wedding industry you usually get what you pay for. This is an important investment in your wedding. There is a wide range of prices for wedding planners because each one is so different---different levels of experience, different talents, different approaches to service, different ethics, different personalities. Find someone you really want to work with. Finding your wedding planner is kind of like finding your wedding dress...when it's the right one, you'll know.
Happy planning!
Christine
Christine Terezakis is a wedding planner, event designer based in south Florida's Treasure Coast and serving brides throughout Florida and destinations beyond.
Dreamday Celebrations www.dreamdaycelebrations.com 772.220.0373