The Wedding Planner

You have made the right decision and have decided to hire a wedding planner. Now what should you expect from your wedding planner? In short, a wedding planner or a wedding coordinator will guide you through the planning process and run the big day.

Your wedding planner should:

•    Help you develop your vision; your wedding planner will work closely with you and your fiancé to narrow down the type of wedding you want to have. Is it a barn or a ballroom, vintage or modern, hot pink or dusty rose; your wedding planner will ask you questions to ensure your wedding will be distinctly yours.

•    Maintain your budget with frequent check-ins and money saving tips. Your planner will help you prioritize your spending based on your vision.

•    Manage your planning timeline so you are booking the right vendors at the right time.  A wedding planner knows the right time to look at stationary and when to send invites to out of town guests. A planner’s timeline will ensure you are not overwhelmed.

•    Be your sounding board during the planning process. They will be available by email and telephone and for in-person meetings and will be able to answer your questions on etiquette and traditions etc.to keep you calm throughout.

•    Liaise with your vendors before the wedding to finalize any last minute details.

•    Develop a very detailed wedding day timeline that includes your vendors, attendants, speeches, families etc.

•    Attend your big day and ensure the ceremony and reception run according to your vision and timeline. 

•    Coordinate the set-up and delivery of all your vendors including flowers, the DJ and your venue.

•    Handle any small glitches and adjust timings on the day so your friends and family don’t even notice.

•    Ensure you have an amazing day!

There are dozens of Vancouver wedding planners and coordinators to chose from and it can seem overwhelming at first. Create your short list of potential wedding planners by asking for referrals from friends and family, then do a Google search or use a local directory to find coordinators in your area. Once you have a short list contact them to get an idea of pricing – as with all of your vendors, your wedding planner needs to fit your budget. Next, meet with a couple to ensure you get along and feel confident and comfortable with them. Before you book your wedding coordinator or planner, ensure you discuss their duties so you are both on the same page as to your expectations.

David Ethan is a proud contributing author and writes articles on several subjects including Vancouver Wedding Planner.