Public’s Preconceptions of a Wedding Planner

A few weeks ago I decided to write a very short survey to find out what brides to be think about wedding planners. I thought by finding out what the general public’s views are then I would be able to overcome any objections anyone would have to using a planner and convince people that we do not all have cloven hooves!  I was in no way prepared for the comments I received!

Firstly I asked ‘If you don’t have a wedding planner, why not?’

• 36% answered that they think wedding planners are too expensive
• 24% said that they thought a wedding planner would take over
• 40% said they would prefer to do it themselves

Then I asked ‘What would make you change a mind about hiring a wedding planner?’ This was a free form box where people could write their own comments – the following are some of the more interesting ones.

• Reasonable price at an already expensive time
• A greater presence of wedding planners in books and on the internet on self help sites. Removing the stigma of wedding planners being terribly expensive.
• Cheaper rates, someone who could source vintage.
• Cost and knowing more about what they actually do
• I kind of get one with my venue. If they could help more with ideas and styling not just sourcing.
• If I could get involved too – like a collaborative approach!
• Not sure would be concerned people think it pretentious of me to use one

Now that I have an idea of how people outside of the wedding industry view wedding planners, I’m going to take the opportunity to dispel some of the myths and ensure that future brides to be know the truth about how I work.

I work ethically and always with the couples best interests at heart. There are no hidden charges and I do not accept commission from suppliers. If I’m offered commissions or discounts they are then passed on to the couple. I will agree my fees with the couple before they sign a contract. I also make a bold statement; I will save the couple more money than I charge them! So I DO NOT cost you any more than you were already planning on spending. By working this way, I always recommend the best suppliers based on the couples needs rather than others who choose who will pay them the most commission. I always make sure that the couple have an enjoyable planning experience and are stress free come the big day. I believe this is how all wedding planners should work and I know that the best ones do.

I’m here to understand and listen to the couple, not tell them what to do. I’m discreet and will be there when I’m needed and always available at the end of the phone.  I would never tell a couple what to do, it is their day and I’m here to make sure they have the day of their dreams. Having a wedding planner doesn’t mean you’re not organising your wedding yourself, it just means you have another person to ask for advice.  I’m sure most brides will ask family and friends for recommendations, opinions and help along with way….so having a wedding planner works in the same way.  Why is that pretentious? I think there is enough pressure on a couple when organising a wedding, so anything that can help is a good thing!