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Choosing an Event Planner

Have a special event to plan with a ton of details? Don’t worry we know you can’t do it alone that’s why we’ve put this article together to help you choose the best event consultant.

Hiring an event planner is going to save you a lot of time and possibly a bit of money. A good planner will put your mind at ease by managing everything while still involving you in the planning stages. The event consultant should only have one goal; make your event the amazing experience you want it to be. Hire a qualified and trained event planner that has already completed a dozen events that are similar in scope to the one you want to hold.

Take the time to talk with several event consultants and get quotes from them. Spending time talking with them will help you figure out who you’d like to spend the time with to plan and carry out the entire vision. A good event consultant will be an active listener and contribute ideas to flesh out the your original concepts. If they aren’t asking questions then you should probably look elsewhere. Ask them for a list of references from both venues and previous customers and be sure to contact the references to find out how well the event consultant performed.

Before you agree to work with the event consultant get a hard copy of the agreement or contract with all needed signatures on it. You don’t want to have misunderstandings about payment or services close to the event date. You don’t need that extra stress.

Below are a few questions we’ve put together to help you make your decision.

1. How long have you been an event consultant?


2. Do you have a current business license and insurance?


3. Do you work full-time or part-time?


4. Are you independently owned?


5. What type of education, training or certification do you have?


6. Do you have an active membership in any national/international associations?


7. How is payment arranged: hourly, flat fee, or a percentage?


8. Do you accept commissions or referral fees from other merchants?


9. If so do you pass the discounts on to me?


10. Could you explain what services are included in the contract?


11. My budget is X how many events have you produced in this price range?


12. How will you incorporate my tastes in the planning?


13. How would you rate your creative abilities?


14. How would you rate your organizational and time-management skills?


15. Are you able to manage from long distance if necessary, and with multiple parties?


16. Are you able to work with an array of personalities and emotions?


17. Do you have back-up staff available in the event of unforeseen circumstances?


18. May I see your standard contract?


19. Can I get references from venues you have used in the past?


20. Can I speak to former clients for references?