| Questions to Ask |
How many weddings have you handled? What training have you had? |
| The whole point of hiring a wedding coordinator is to have experienced, professional guidance throughout your planning process. Don't hesitate to inquire about a prospect's level of training. Several organizations offer certification programs for wedding consultants. Call any associations that the consultant belongs to and verify their status. |
What specific services do you provide? |
| Different coordinators offer a diverse menu of services and areas of expertise. Consider your most critical needs when interviewing prospects. If you feel confident about selecting your decorations and gown, you might be looking more for someone who specializes in coordination and budget management. On the other hand, a consultant with a strong eye for visual design and a decorative flair may be exactly what you need. |
How are your fees structured? |
| Some consultants charge a fixed hourly rate while others want a percentage of the total wedding budget. Others make their money from suppliers' commissions and will not charge the consumer. See Costs Involved. |
Will I be obligated to use the vendors you suggest? |
| Ask if you are obligated to use vendors suggested by the consultants. You want to know that a consultant will be working with - and for - you. |
How many weddings will you work at one time? |
| Many full-service consultants will work on two to three weddings per month. If a coordinator takes on more than that, you may find it difficult to get personalized assistance.
In addition to considering specific responses and qualifications, pay attention to personality. Do you feel comfortable with this individual? Do they listen attentively? Is this person readily available?
If you are satisfied with the responses you receive, and the references check out, book 'em!
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| Costs Involved |
Some coordinators work free of charge, serving as a source of information and referrals. Just remember that they have to make their money somewhere. Most likely, the vendors they recommend are paying them for the referral. And that means that they may not have your best interests in mind.
Those that do charge a fee will plan as little or as much of your wedding as you want. Many expect a percentage (usually around 15%) of the total wedding budget when managing the event from start to finish. Others will bill at a flat hourly rate - particularly if they are offering limited services.
Either way, a competent wedding coordinator should not be an added expense. They should be able to plan a better wedding - at a lower cost - than you could do yourself!
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| The Contract |
A contract protects your interests as well as those of the coordinator. It serves as a written reference for all agreements that the two of you have made. It will also be your guarantee of the services and fees that you have agreed to.
The coordinator may have a standard contract or you can write your own. Just be sure that you make it as detailed as possible and that you review it thoroughly before signing.
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Your contract with the wedding coordinator should include: |
- Time and date of the wedding
- Service specifics
- All billing details
- Payment schedule
- Details of any special requests or agreements
- Guarantees and liabilities
- Name(s) of any assistants
- Wedding coordinator's name, contact information and signature
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For delivery by Saturday, May 10th, follow the shipping guidelines below.
