Wedding Planner Checklist

November 6th, 2009

A wedding planner can be a best friend to a busy bride. But to make sure that you are getting the most for your money (and that you know what to expect from her), it is important that you and your wedding planner are on the same page. This is a wedding planner checklist that all brides can use.

The time to begin asking questions of your wedding planner is before you sign the contract. You need to know just exactly what her services will cost, and what you should get for that money. There are wedding planners who work by the hour, those that base their fee on a percentage of the total wedding cost, and coordinators who take a more limited role, such as working only on the day of the wedding. Any of these types of planners can work out well, as long as you are clear on what to expect.

Another important question to ask your wedding planner is what type of wedding is her specialty. Most planners will be competent enough to design a wide range of events, yet you will be happiest if you find one whose vision meshes well with your own. When you are having a specialized type of affair, such a traditional Indian wedding, you will have the best results with a planner who is already familiar with the customs of your culture, from the suite of bridal jewelry to the food to the music. Your vendor will be better equipped to source the best vendors if she has experience planning events that were similar to yours.

Another big question on your wedding planner checklist is her timeline. This is one of the key roles that a coordinator will fill – making sure that you know what steps need to be taken when, and seeing to it that they get done in a timely fashion. Remember that when your planner gives you a deadline, it is for the good of your wedding, so don’t be resentful if you feel like she is always bugging you to get decisions made. The whole reason to hire a wedding planner is to ensure that you have the most beautiful wedding possible, and at times, you will need to help her help you.