Why You Can Afford a Wedding Planner!
Posted: Tuesday, June 02, 2009
by Mary Brophy
Bizz Bag, Inc.
If you think wedding planners and consultants are just for the glamorous ladies of Hollywood, think again! The evidence is quite the contrary - wedding planners can help keep your wedding within budget, and save you money along the way.
Industry Contacts
Wedding consultants work in the wedding and events industry. They know just which baker to go to for the most delicious frosting; they know which venues are good for rain or shine. They also know which photographer will give you the best value or the most artistic touch. Your wedding planner works with these contacts all year long, and should have positive relationships with many members of the community whose services you need.
Bridal consultants are so familiar with wedding ceremonies and receptions, that they have developed lots of ways of locating good value. Did you ever think of booking your wedding ceremony close to Easter - to take advantage of an already decorated church? What about returning unused wines to the liquor store for a refund?
Your wedding consultant is a pro and will have lots of tricks up her sleeve to help save you money. In many cases, wedding planners can save you 10-20% off the list price because they have an established relationship with providers.
Sticking to the Budget
Once you set a budget, it's easy to fall into the romance of the day and start adding a few more decorations here and there - before you know it, you've spent far more than you planned. A wedding planner will help you set a budget - and stick to it. She'll be able to give you pointers on what percentage of your budget should go to each aspect of your wedding, from music, to flowers, to decorations.
Negotiations
Your wedding planner is used to seeing lots of vendor contracts. Hiring a wedding consultant can be a great way to avoid extra charges. You'll have a clear understanding of everything you sign, and your wedding professional will keep track of all the finer details. She will likely be able to negotiate a better deal on your behalf, or negotiate your contract so you receive more value. You'll also have the peace of mind that comes from receiving vendor recommendations from your planner.
Time is Money, Money is Time
Your bridal consultant will save you hours of exhausting time - and your time is precious. You'll be able to continue focusing on your work, your hobbies, and your family while your wedding consultant helps you keep on schedule and on target. She'll be able to help you with the details, adding creative touches and industry know-how along the way. Having time to yourself in the weeks leading up to your wedding? Priceless!
A Little or a Lot
Most wedding consultants have various packages suited to a variety of budgets. Often, wedding consultants will be willing to create a package to cater to your needs. Another option, planners may be willing to help just for your wedding day, leaving you to plan your own wedding. Some venues come with wedding planners who can help you make choices, give recommendations, and offer advice - so don't be afraid to ask.
On a tight budget? Many budding wedding consultants will love to help plan your wedding for a lower fee along with a promise of a testimonial and lots of pictures for her portfolio. Someone just breaking into the market is a possibility, but keep in mind she might not have as many industry contacts and backup contingencies.
Speak to your bridal professional to determine budget, set realistic goals, and determine how her fee structure will work to make sure everything is clear from the beginning! Choosing to work with a wedding consultant can be a lifesaver - no matter what your budget.
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Mary W. Brophy is a writer, serial entrepreneur and the creative force behind a new handbag trend - personal logo bags. Her company, Bizz Bag, Inc., gives fashion savvy brides ways to display their monogram in custom prints on a luxury wedding tote. For our best personalized gift idea for the bride, bridesmaids or maid of honor, see "Wedding Jitters".
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