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How to find the perfect Wedding Planner

Staff Report
Wendy Griffith Photography
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Once you’ve made the decision to hire a wedding coordinator, it’s time to find that perfect planner. The experts at http://www.weddingchannel.com say the best way to find a good wedding coordinator is through friends, family and vendors. Or, if you attended a wedding that seemed particularly well-planned, find out who was behind the scenes.

Another starting point would be to call the Association of Bridal Consultants (www.bridalassn.com or (860) 355-0464), an organization comprising 2,900 members in 19 countries that’s committed to improving the professionalism of wedding coordinators.

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, be sure and personally interview the candidates. The folks at http://www.theknot.com suggest asking the following key questions:



1. Will the consultant commit to your budget and not push you in the direction of things you simply can’t afford?

2. Will the consultant devise a master plan mapping out all the little details, from announcements to zebra-striped decor? (This will clue you in to organizational prowess and a willingness to keep you in the loop on every matter imaginable.)

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3. Can the consultant name the best and most original locations in your area (that would be suitable to your wedding size, style and budget)?

4. Is the consultant familiar with the best florists, photographers, caterers, bands and DJs in your price range? Can he/she explain their strongpoints to you briefly? (Ask yourself: Does the consultant seem both knowledgeable and passionate?)

5. Can the consultant score you some discounts with any vendors? (Consultants bring volume to favored vendors; often they’ll reciprocate by slashing prices or throwing in extras.)

6. Will the consultant read over the vendor contracts for you? What are some common traps to look out for?

7. Can the consultant create a timeline that tells everyone involved in the planning process ” vendors, members of the wedding party, bride/groom, and families ” what to do and when to do it? How will she/he make sure that everyone sticks to the schedule?

8. Will the consultant handle the invitations, from wording and ordering to the addressing and mailing?

9. Can the consultant counsel you on etiquette matters and alert you to hot trends on the wedding horizon?

10. Will the consultant coordinate delivery, arrival, and setup times with photographer, florist, musicians, caterer/banquet manager, et al?

11. For the day of the wedding, will the consultant be willing to oversee the entire event by supervising vendors, troubleshooting emergencies, and soothing nerves? Can she/he share any anecdotes that required performing above and beyond the call of duty?

12. Will the consultant be willing to step in as your advocate, conveying your visions and desires to vendors when you don’t feel up to the task?

13. Will the consultant help plan and book your honeymoon?


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