Why should I hire a wedding planner? Do I really need one?
People consult experts for many important personal matters – buying a house, doing their taxes, dealing with legal issues –if a wedding isn’t one of the most important personal matters you’ll ever deal with, I don’t know what is!
According to statistics, the average bride spends over 100 hours planning her wedding! Most couples are extremely busy, and likely do not have that sort of time available. Not to mention, planning a wedding can be stressful! My job as a wedding planner is to eliminate that stress, offer my experience, negotiate on your behalf, take care of details, and most importantly, ensure it all comes together and goes off without a hitch!
Chances are you will only plan one wedding in your lifetime – that leaves you at square one with a daunting task lists of things you never dreamed of having to do (seating arrangements? letterpress vs. thermography?), no experience, no vendor contacts, and in many cases, no time! Hiring a planner ensures that every last detail of your wedding is covered and that you and your family are able to enjoy all of the special moments on your big day – without stressing about all the moving parts of the event.
Can I afford a wedding planner?
Absolutely! A wedding planner can actually help to save you money by offering alternatives you may not have thought of, negotiating rates with vendors and thoroughly reviewing contracts before you sign. As a bride, you are a one time client to most wedding vendors (at least that’s the plan!). As a wedding planner, I am able to bring repeat clients to vendors who demonstrate stellar service and products. Vendors are more apt to negotiate with a planner than a bride, and will go above and beyond to please a planner’s client. I use my expertise to help you avoid costly mistakes and assure that your budget is optimally allocated.
What does a Wedding Planner actually do?
As little or as much as you need! From the initial budget planning to loading out of the reception venue at the end of the night, a wedding planner brings experience and knowledge of the wedding industry into your plans – which can be the difference between an event that comes together and one that does not.
Do you offer a ‘day of’, ‘week of’ or ‘month of’ only service?
No, we do not.
How are your rates determined?
I learned early on that none of my clients fit into a set package. After our initial discussion, I construct a planning proposal based on your needs, and the price is determined by how much time, staff and specific services are required.
Do you only plan weddings?
Nope! I come from a long background of concert production, campus events (I was the Director of Musical Events for James Madison University), corporate and charitable events. Whether you need to plan an elegant, intimate dinner or an elaborate birthday celebration, I have the creativity and experience to make it an unforgettable event!
Do I have to use your vendors?
I have had the privilege of working with the best of the best when it comes to wedding vendors. I don’t in any way, shape or form pressure my clients into using my vendors. I will recommend vendors to you based on your budget needs and whom I think best represents your personality and style. If there is another vendor you’d prefer to work with, I am more than happy to get to know them and work with them on your behalf!
How far in advance do I need to book you?
Six to eight months or more out from your wedding is ideal if you’re starting from square one and haven’t booked a venue yet. Many Nashville wedding venues book a year or more in advance! Booking a planner earlier on in your wedding or event planning journey will save you a lot more time, stress, and money!
Will you travel?
Most definitely! I’ve got my passport ready and am more than happy to travel anywhere to deliver your perfect wedding or event!
