How to Control a Wedding Planner

Hiring a wedding planner for your big day can save you countless hours of stress and anxiety. Even so, you should still make sure that your planner's every move stays within budget and helps execute your vision flawlessly. Here is your guide for controlling a wedding planner.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Explain your vision clearly and get a feel for how the planner is responding to your requests. A positive working relationship will help the planning process run smoothly and keep your confidence levels high.

2. Pay your planner with a flat fee. Planners who are paid a percentage of the wedding's total cost may be tempted to run up the bill without your knowledge. Arranging a flat fee takes away any incentive for such deceptive practices.

3. Be firm about the vendors you want to use. Wedding planners may already have their own steadfast list of contacts but you are ultimately in control. Make your preferences known and insist that they be honored.

4. Get everything in writing. Hammer out a contract that details your agreements regarding budget, resources and timelines. Refer to that document if you and your planner disagree on something.

5. Stay in constant communication. Wedding planners are busy throughout the year so it is your responsibility to make sure your wedding remains a priority. If your planner stops returning your calls, it might be time to hire someone new.

6. Ask a few friends or relatives to secretly monitor your planner's behavior on the wedding day. He or she should be courteous to your guests and adhering to your schedule. Hiccups are bound to happen, but your planner should resolve them quickly and with a smile.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't pay the full balance of your bill until you are satisfied with the goods and services you've received. With so many novice planners out there, it is impossible to trust just anyone.

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on 1/23/2008 How to control a wedding planner? You couldn't think of a better title, it's very tacky