Questions to ask yourself before hiring a wedding planner:
- Do we need a wedding planner or can we handle it on our own?
- What is our wedding budget?
- How many guests will attend?
- When and where will the wedding take place?
The prospective wedding planners will want to know the answers to these questions. They may also ask about your "vision" or "dream" for the wedding. A good wedding planner should be able to help you orchestrate your "dream" wedding within your budget.
Research wedding planners
Before deciding who to interview, do your research. View their wedding portfolios. Read their reviews. Ask your friends for references. Ask your chosen venue for references. When you do call them for the first time, what is your general impression? Do you they seem to listen to your concerns? Are they available for your chosen date? Do they have ample planning time?
Interview prospective wedding planners
Schedule interviews with a few wedding planners and keep careful notes. If possible, the couple should attend the interview together. Compose your questions in advance and be open to on-the-fly questions when needed.
Sample questions to ask wedding planners:
- Do you have any conflicts with the dates? If so, will you be onsite or will you send an associate?
- What experience do you have? How many years have you been in business?
- How many weddings similar to our size have you organized? When was your last wedding? How many do you plan per year?
- How do you like to communicate? How would you rate your communication skills? Do you charge for phone calls and consultations?
- What is your going rate? What does that include? What might cost extra?
- Can you recommend vendors and venues? Do you have good relationships with local vendors? Have you worked with our chosen venue?
- Can you show me a few sample wedding plans?
- Can you provide references from past clients?
Review and sign a Wedding Planner Agreement
Your wedding planner should be able to provide an agreeable service contract. If they do not provide professional legal agreements, we provide customizable Wedding Planner Contracts. Our contract includes basic details such as the wedding date, terms for payment, description of services, reasons for default, legal protections, and more. You should also discuss the process for how changes are to be made, if needed. Even if your chosen wedding planner is a friend or family member, you should still consider making a contractual agreement with them to avoid possible problems should they arise.
Wedding planners should lower your stress-level, not raise it. Take the time to find the right planner. A planner who can make your dream wedding happen with minimal problems. A planner who listens to you and makes sure your wishes are fulfilled. Insist on solidifying the agreement with a comprehensive service contract to keep the arrangement professional. If you have questions about your wedding contracts, be sure to ask a lawyer before signing.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Rocket Lawyer is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.
