SEARCH CELEBRATE

CHOOSING A WEDDING CONSULTANT

Achieving an unforgettable wedding takes a well thought out plan and a lot of time. Unfortunately most of us don’t have the necessary time to pull this off so the best thing to do is hire a wedding consultant. A talented wedding consultant has the knowledge about where to find all of the services and products you will need to make your dream wedding a reality.

When evaluating wedding consultants there are a number of traits you should look for. Start with experience; look for a wedding consultant who has produced at least a dozen weddings that are similar in budget and size to yours. This is not the time to use a rookie. They should have at least two to three years experience and have training and certification by a nationally recognized industry association.

One of the greatest things about hiring a wedding consultant is the assistance you will receive in the financial department. Wedding consultant’s fees may be structured differently from one another. Some will agree to a flat rate, others charge a percentage on the total wedding costs while some will charge a per-guest rate. The experience your wedding consultant has will most likely save you money because they know which products and services will provide you with the best value while still achieving your vision.

Above all things you must like your wedding consultant. Over the planning period you will be spending many hours discussing your wedding wishes, so it's very important that your wedding consultant be someone you are comfortable around and can talk openly with.

1. How long have you been a wedding 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 bridal 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 weddings 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 other wedding ceremonies and receptions?


20. Can I speak to former clients for references?