Bella Bride Wedding Magazine #11 August 22 | Page 18

It seems like you can ’ t read a book , magazine or even watch a wedding film without a ‘ wedding planner ’ appearing . In fact 26 % brides now hire a planner for their wedding , an amazing increase from recent years . But why the popularity ? Years ago couples were happy for a small simple wedding organized by their Mother , but now it would appear the larger and more elaborate , the better !
Weddings are becoming increasingly complex with an average number of 15 suppliers to source , negotiate and book . Brides can spend weeks agonizing over plans and details to ensure their wedding day is wonderful . Films such as ‘ The Wedding Planner ’ and ‘ Confetti ’ have raised the profile of wedding planners in the world over recent years , hence the increase of planners now being hired .
A professional wedding planner is not as expensive as you may think , with many offering various packages to suit every wedding budget . In most cases your planner can get discounts from suppliers , getting you the best possible price . Each supplier would have been vetted , with credentials checked to ensure they are professional .
Consider the following :
• Do you and your partner work long hours ?
• Is your job stressful and demanding ?
• Do you have to travel frequently ?
• Are you living outside the area of which you plan to marry ?
• Do you want your wedding to have the wow factor ?
• Are you worried about putting pressure on your Mother ?
• Do you want a professional edge to your wedding ?
If you answer yes to any of these questions , you may wish to consider hiring a planner . But how can you ensure the wedding planner you hire is professional and experienced ? Start looking through the internet for planners in your area or the area you wish to marry . Look at some of the sites and instantly dismiss those with badly designed websites and / or spelling mistakes - if they cannot get their own material correct what hope is there for your wedding ?
Arrange to meet the planner for a consultation , as personality is a huge part of being a wedding planner . They will be privy to personal and confidential issues so they have to be someone that you can build a trust relationship with .
Use this list of questions as a guide to check their experience and suitability .
• How long they have been in business ?
• How many weddings they have organized ? Can they provide references ?
• How do they charge , hourly , fixed fee or a percentage of your wedding budget ? Do you feel comfortable with this ?
• Do they accept commission from suppliers or is it passed on to the client ?
• Do they operate on a full-time basis or do they have another job ?
• Do they have public liability insurance ?
• Do they have a portfolio for you to look at ?

All in favour of a

Wedding Planner say " I do "

Most wedding planners have a set of packages and tailor-made services to choose from . It really is up to the client what the planner can do for them , as every wedding is different .
What exactly can a planner help with ? Most planners have a set of packages and tailor-made services to choose from . It really is up to the client what the planner can do for them , as every wedding is different .
• Recommending suitable venues
• Recommending suitable suppliers
• Producing your budget & ensuring you stick to it
• Arranging payments to all suppliers
• Creating a wedding theme and design
• Sending invitations
• Managing the wedding day itself
Don ’ t forget to use your planner as an inspirational source , family mediator and financial advisor . Keep your planner informed of any changes in order for them to organize your wedding proficiently .
Contact us today to ensure your wedding is stress free and absolutely breathtaking ! FOR AN OCCASION AND STYLE THAT MAKES HISTORY ... 0839697572 Sandra Jacobs