Before you check Google for all of the wedding planners that live within a thirty mile radius of you, and before you walk into those all-important consultation visits, it’s important to have an idea of what you need out of a prospective wedding planner. It’s okay if you’re not sure. How many times in life have you searched for and interviewed a wedding planner? Chances are highly likely that this is the first. Here’s the basics so you can move confidently forward in your search:
- Compatibility is a must
You’ve probably seen this plenty of times, if you’ve ever searched “what makes good wedding planners” or just searching in general for a wedding planner. The two of you should get along, right? Of course!
Well, that’s true, and we’re not downplaying that as an important factor but it’s also a half-realized concept. Interpersonal skills are a high priority for effective wedding planners. They’ll make you feel welcome; they’ll smile. They never have a shortage or crazy wedding stories and jokes –that’s wonderful. But –as choosing a partner for marriage teaches people –compatibility is about much more than being able to enjoy each other socially in doses. The two of you need to hit it off in terms of direction and taste as well. If you want the most out of your wedding, you’ll need a wedding planner that’s excited about your themes and choice of aesthetics. You guys will need to gel creatively and interest-wise.
That sounds like we’re putting a lot of pressure on the wedding planner, but the fact is that not everyone works effectively together for the purposes of long-term projects. You guys might not have hit it off, but that same wedding planner may be perfect for the next couple that crosses their path. Any successful director or manager has a knack for recognizing good work chemistry between people and utilizing that potential. When it comes to directing your own wedding, you need employ that type of long-term critical thinking. If you’re looking to hire a wedding planner, ask yourself can I work with this person over the next several months and stay enthused? The answer must unequivocally be yes.
- Ideas are wonderful, but planning requires substance
There’s a popular nugget of wisdom in business. The specifics vary, but the basic idea remains throughout each telling: ideas are great. Everyone’s got an idea What have you created? How will you go about turning your next project into a reality?” Anyone who’s ever had a drink with someone who’s all-too-eager to describe themselves as “a Producer” knows what we’re talking about. Beware of any wedding planner eager to sell you on their Vision™ for your wedding.
This a major red flag. When you meet with a wedding planner for a consultation, most of their talking should be making inquiries about your vision for the wedding; not vice-versa. You’ve had a vision for your wedding for decades –perhaps longer. Their job is to take that vision and use their savvy to make that into a reality. Don’t be afraid to ask for specifics. “What vendors will you contact? Will you have other weddings to attend on my wedding day? Is this possible with this budget outline? How many hours a week will you be available during crutch time?” (one month and counting down to the wedding) These aren’t nitpicky concerns. They’re an oral test to make sure you talking to a planner that can deliver.
- Know what type of planning your need and budget accordingly
We’ve been tough on wedding planners so far, but the truth is that it certainly doesn’t all fall on them. By the time you visit a wedding planner, you should have an idea as to both the budget and scale or your wedding. If you want their help in turning your dream wedding into a reality: direction and communication will go a long way towards making that happen.
You’ll also need to have an accurate idea of what you need from them. i.e. type of service. Are you just looking for some pointers and have vendors recommended? Because some planners (and agencies) will just charge by the hour for in-depth consultation visits. Perhaps you’re just looking for help and crowd control for the wedding day? Or are you looking for a full-time partner in crime from the consultation visit until you drive away in the getaway car with the “Just Married” logo fading off into the horizon?
Those different types of needs have vastly different costs and lets the planner know where they’ll need to focus their attention and energy to best suit your needs.
