Bridal Board

[Christy in Indiana]

What does a wedding planner do and do I really need one?

[Crista Tharp & Associates, Inc., in IN]

The official answer to that is, "it depends." Obviously, I think everyone should use a Wedding Planner because I am one, but that's not necessarily the best thing for every Bride.

Wedding Planners do a variety of things to make your life easier. They will give you referrals to reputable vendors, help you negotiate contracts, keep you on track with your planning, give you ideas, help you with etiquette (what's left of it) and delicate family issues. Not only that, but they help you create your ceremony and reception agendas, run the rehearsal, set up the hall, take care of emergency management and become your personal assistant and guard dog.

You need to check with each planner to make sure what he/she will provide you. Get it in writing and don't forget to get references. That part is critical.

If you are having a small backyard BBQ, or a cake & punch reception, then most likely, you do not need a Planner. However, these days, weddings are huge productions and if you want to guarantee that you and your family enjoy the day instead of trying to clean up the garbage or deal with a vendor that didn't show - I highly recommend you look into a good Wedding Planner. After all, you're spending thousands of dollars for this party, make sure it goes the way you want it to.

I wish you good luck and a happy marriage!

[Jessica in Indiana]

What does a wedding planner generally cost?

[Crista Tharp & Associates, Inc., in IN]

Jessica, that's a really good question. Unfortunately, it isn't an easy one to answer. Our industry isn't regulated, which means that each wedding planner chooses their fee usually based on two things: one, what will people in their area pay; and two, what do they feel their time is worth. Prices, as with anything, will be more expensive in larger cities than rural ones.

With that being said, if you hire a PROFESSIONAL wedding planner, expect to pay anywhere between $800-$1500 for day of directing and $100-$3000 for beginning to end services. Now, if you are picking your mouth up off the floor like most Brides when they hear this, let me put it in perspective for you. You are most likely paying $100-$3000 for your photographer for 8 hours of service. Yes, you will be getting some physical product as well, but you get the "picture". A good wedding planner spends, on average, 100 hours on a wedding from beginning to end. Not to mention the 16 hour day she/he puts in the day of.

Just don't forget to do your homework - check references!! Thanks for your post & good luck!