What to look for when picking a planner

Behind the scenes, a wedding is a two-way relationship between the couple and the planner.

In order for your dream wedding to become a reality, you and your planner have to be on the same team. That is why it’s important to choose wisely.

Breanna Lingerfelt, Grandview’s event specialist, touches on a few keys to consider when picking a wedding planner, continuing the conversation from An event planner can make or break your wedding.

Photo by: Jaime Smialek (@Our_Ampersand_Photo)

Your level of involvement

Some brides want a say in every detail while others just show the planner a Pinterest board and say ‘Make it pretty.’

How involved you want to be is something the planner wants to know from the outset, which is why it’s best to be on the same page to avoid any surprises or hiccups down the road.

“If you want to be super involved, you might just need a day-of coordinator, because you’ll want to get your photographer quotes, look at their books and decide all of those little things,” Lingerfelt said.

Shares your style

Are you wanting a more traditional wedding or one that’s a bit quirky? It’s important to go with a planner that matches your aesthetic and can create the look you’re going for. Browse their books and social media pages to decide if you like what you see.

In addition to style, do they share your personality? A laissez-faire bride may not enjoy a meticulous planner.

Fits your budget

Couples should consider how much they’re willing to spend for a planner. Remember, you’re paying for someone to take care of your entire wedding. Something to consider is the size of your guest list. Lingerfelt notes that a wedding of 200 people or more may need additional assistance.

Shop around for a venue and planner that you can afford. The last thing you want is for an absurdly high upfront cost eating a significant portion of your budget.

“There are some who won't even book you unless you're going to pay $6,500,” Lingerfelt said. “Some higher scale planners will only book you if you're going to spend $150,000 or so, taking a percentage off what you spend and getting a commission.”

Ask your friends and couples you know

Lingerfelt says that planners are mainly hired by word of mouth. Ask couples you know – whose weddings you admired – about the planner they hired.

In most cases, venues will have their own planner(s) or a recommended list of vendors to work with.