Attention all non-traditional couples looking to host an intentional wedding, this journal entry is for you. Finding the perfect wedding planner can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be, Lea Stafford Events (LSE) has you covered.
As one of the leading non-traditional wedding planners, we understand the importance of creating a wedding that reflects your personality and lifestyle. That’s why we’ve put together these top tips for finding the perfect planning partner for your wedding weekend:
DO’S:
“Do your research“: Before hiring a planner, check out reviews, note any awards, and study their portfolios. This will give you a sense of their style and expertise.
“Schedule a consult“: Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential planners, book a meeting. During this time, get to know them, in person (or on video). Be sure you share how involved you want to be during the process, this will help make sure they are the right fit for you.
“Be upfront about your target investment“: Don’t be afraid to talk about the budget with your planner. It will help them understand your priorities. Get comfy here, you will talk about it a lot during the planning process. Being transparent about your budget may eliminate some planners, but remember, the goal is to find the best fit.
“Communicate your vision + expectations“: Let your planner know your desired aesthetic, ideal experience, and overall feel for the day. The more information you provide, the better equipped they’ll be to create a wedding that truly represents your genuine style.
On the other hand, here are some “don’ts” to keep in mind:
DON’TS:
“Don’t skimp on your investment“: While it’s important to stay within your budget, don’t sacrifice quality for the sake of saving a few dollars. Your planner can help you prioritize, please don’t cut corners.
“Don’t hire based solely on price“: Just because a planner is the cheapest option doesn’t mean they are the best fit for your wedding. Make sure to research and meet with multiple planners before making a decision.
“Don’t ignore red flags“: Trust your gut and move on if something about a planner makes you uncomfortable. It’s important to find a planner who you feel confident and comfortable working with. We know 20/20 is hindsight, here is an interesting article to read to help prevent regret.
“Don’t assume you know“: With the amount of info available online many start the process on their own or, have had a chat with a recent bride/groom. Please do not base your journey on your initial research or another’s experience, it is not the same. Trust the expert you hire to lead you.
At LSE, we believe every wedding should be as unique as the couple getting married. Our team is dedicated to listening to our client’s vision. Working with the best event partners to create a one-of-a-kind event that will be remembered forever is our thing. We strive to make the planning process as stress-free and enjoyable as possible for our clients. For this reason, we only focus on a limited number of events a year.
Hiring a wedding planner can be a big decision. Finding the perfect wedding planner for you is the goal, so take your time. There is a caveat, our dates do not stay free forever! By following these do’s and don’ts, chances are pretty high you’ll find the planner put on the planet for you.
Just know that we at LSE are committed to creating intentional and non-traditional weddings for the exceptional. If that sounds good to you, make sure you reach out to us today to schedule your consultation for 2024. Let’s start planning your dream wedding together!