How To Hire Wedding Planners

Ask for a referral. The best way to find a responsible and professional wedding planner is to be referred to one. Ask friends, family, and co-workers who have been recently married if they used a wedding planner. If they had a positive experience working with a wedding planner, ask for a referral. If they had a negative experience working with a wedding planner, get the name of the company and the name of the planner so you can avoid having the same bad experience.

Check out organizations. A professional organization for event and wedding planners is a great source for finding wedding planners. Many of these organizations require or provide certifications for wedding planners, which helps to ensure the wedding planners are educated and reputable. A few organizations you can turn to for information include the Association of Bridal Consultants, the National Association of Wedding Professionals, and the Association of Certified Professional Wedding Consultants.

Ask for references. Make a list of potential wedding planners you can work with. Make an appointment to talk with the wedding planner. Ask the wedding planner how they work, what their payment arrangements are, and exactly what services they provide. Most importantly, ask the wedding planner for bride and groom references. Always check the references provided to you.

It's more about personality than anything else. When you work with a wedding planner, the bottom line is you have to get along with this person. You are going to work closely with this person for an extended period of time on an event that is very important to you. If you do not like this person's personality, the way they work, or anything else about them, then do not contract them for the job. Professionalism and knowledge are important, but if you do not get along with this person, then none of that matters.

Get it in writing. Whatever terms you work out with the wedding planner, be sure to get it all in writing. A wedding planner has a written agreement signed by both parties just like any other wedding vendor you work with. This agreement should spell out all of the details. If you do not receive a written agreement, then find another wedding planner to work with.