Written by Happily Hitched

We partnered up with 48 Fields, a wedding venue in the heart of Loudoun County in Leesburg, VA, to share some tips for choosing a wedding planner!

Whether you…

• know exactly what you want and want to do all the wedding planning yourself

• don’t have the time to plan your wedding

• would like the guidance of having a planner assist you from beginning to end

… there are different types of wedding planners and coordinators who could help meet your needs. That way you and your finance can spend more time enjoying your engagement and final days leading up until you say “I do.”

Here are some insights we offered to couples who are planning their big day!

Question: What are some of the things that couples should ask about when looking to select a planner for their wedding?

Answer: Ask what type of planner they are! We all have different fortes and styles, and just like you spend time analyzing the different styles of your potential photographer or tasting the food from a caterer, you will want to spend some time getting to know what makes each wedding planner different from the rest.

Do they do planning and floral design, or do they just handle logistics to help you stay organized? Do they provide rental items as well? Get clear on their range of services so you can find the best match for you and your wedding day needs. It’s also common to find many planners offering these three types of packages – Event Management (couple does all the planning and coordinator executes their vision in the weeks leading up to the wedding), Partial Planning (planner helps couple plan and design some of their wedding), and Full Planning (planner helps couple plan and design the whole wedding).

When you first meet with a wedding planner, get specific on exactly what it is they offer because it can vary from planner to planner. If you’re expecting something specific from the wedding planner that you hire, put your expectations out on the table. It’s always good to know what the planner doesn’t offer as well! Lastly, you’ve got to have a contingency plan, one that you’ll be happy with. There are so many great venues with outdoor ceremony or reception options, but if the weather doesn’t end up cooperating on your wedding day, you’ve got to have a backup plan that you love.

Question: What are some of the things that couples might not realize about planning a wedding that you think they should know?

Answer: If you’re concerned about your budget, the quickest way to scale back is by trimming the guest list. So many other expenses associated with your wedding are fueled by your guest count. The more people you have, the more food you need, the more drinks, the more tables and chairs, the more wedding favors, and the list goes on!

Also, book your hotel blocks as soon as you decide on your venue! Just like many venues book up a year or more in advance, so do hotels. And, of course, please keep your relationship first! Never forget why it is you’re even talking about linen colors and the perfect pair of shoes. Your wedding day will be a wonderful celebration deserving of all the hard work you’ll put into it. Your relationship and future marriage are even more deserving of that same attention.

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