Why do You Need an Independent Wedding Planner?

A lot of brides and even some "all-inclusive" vendors are starting to think they don't need a wedding planner. The problem is, many truly want to "design" and not really plan. There is a huge difference!

So what is the difference between "planning" and "designing"?

People who design: don't want to be bothered with the wording of an invitation, the special guest book you want to find, specifics on registering, wedding directing etiquette, etc. They also really don't want to be the ones to be there from 7am until midnight that Saturday. They will forget things that a professional planner knows. For example, a bar needs a "bar back" table to hold the drinks, you don't just need cloths for the guest tables but all the tables (bar, food, guest book, coffee station...etc!), the delivery and setup you paid the rental company does not mean that they put on the tablecloths or tie on cushions...they are delivered in a clear trash bag and that is where they will stay if you haven't planned ahead.

They are always extra helpful in choosing tablecloths, styling centerpieces, and the layout...but you need to realize that is not wedding planning. We offer so much more and think of every detail!

For the bride that thinks she wants to do it herself...you can, but most planners offer a service where you can plan the whole time and then hand over the torch to a professional to execute your vision. You do not want to answer the continuous phone calls on your wedding day! You don't want to give directions to the band while you get your hair done, or handle the fact that the shrimp or bar has run out.

I recently had a mother-of-a-bride who had decided to plan it herself...she told me she'd be hiring someone for the second daughter...no questions asked. She said she was pulled aways from her daughter/husband/guests so many times that she couldn't even have one full conversation. She was also so busy for the following months tracking down and returning items (finding the extra programs, returning a friend's punch bowl, returning the grandmother's cake knives, etc.) that she said the process was never-ending!

Let me tell some reasons why a planner is so crucial.

We have handled every aspect...so we have vendor discounts for almost anything and we pass those along to our brides! There is a misconception that we are an added expense and increase the budget. A great planner can actually save you money! We know the ways to make the most bang for your buck. We had a bride on a tight tight budget and wanted to spend money on custom M&M's...we said "STOP!" There is no need to waste $400 on candy that nobody will notice. We put it towards centerpieces and made a much bigger impact!

We also know specifics on etiquette, how to get unusual items (like fan programs, white chocolate favors, custom collegiate garters...), and even lists of what to bring that day, timelines and budgets.

Here is a link from wedalert.com: http://www.wedalert.com/content/articles/why_hire_coordinator.asp

"Not long ago, a wedding coordinator was thought of as a luxury, only used by the wealthy. Now a coordinator is essential to the well planned affair. It is no longer "trendy" to engage a coordinator. Being experienced in negotiating contracts with caterers, florists, photographers, and other suppliers, the coordinator saves valuable time and money. The coordinator can take advantage of discounts not available to private parties and avoid costly mistakes, while turning your dreams into reality.

The average wedding can take more than two hundred fifty hours just to plan. With today's hectic lifestyles, you may not have time to compare all the options, making sure you get the best deal, and make sure all the details are in place.

Wedding coordinators are not here to make decisions for you, but to guide and assist you in making informed decisions. Their training, knowledge, and experience will turn your dreams and expectations into reality. They want you to host a beautiful and distinctive event which you can enjoy.

A wedding coordinator will save you time and enable you to get the most for your money! A wedding coordinator can serve in many other capacities. They can act as the family counselor for apprehensive brides and the mothers, a wedding coordinator can become as close as your best friend.

I know it's a lot of information...but it was time to pop some myths and let brides realize: wedding planning can be a true blessing to a bride!