Many couples opt to have a Wedding Planner to assist them with planning every aspect of their wedding, many however do not. Here are a couple things to consider when making your decision.
First of all there is budget. Are you looking for someone to assist in finding the venue, dj, flowers, invitations, caterers etc, does the venue offer one or are you interested in someone just for the week before to help with last minute details, or just for the day of the ceremony? Ask friends who they have used as a Wedding Planner and get the scoop. Make sure your planner has had Professional Training and check our their references as well as meeting if time permits, with a couple planners.
It is important that should you choose to enlist the services of a Wedding Planner that you feel comfortable with them. Not only being open and agreeable to their suggestions but comfortable enough to veto any options that you would not like included. The bottom line is that it is your day and planner or not, it should still flow that way.
Even if you only have the planner for the day of the wedding, it is important to go over your list of things you would like help with and when you would like these tasks done. A good wedding planner should have a binder with great resources at their finger tips and be willing to share them with you once you enlist their services. After you have met with the planner they should give you a contract to sign. This contract should spell out the details of their services as well as the total cost, deposit etc.
Your planner should be available within reason to assist with emergencies, changes or new ideas (via email, FaceTime of Phone) It might be a nice courtesy to include a tip that covers their professional services for those extras, or for good service.
Each year I have the pleasure of Officiating at over 20 weddings. I have seen first hand the benefits of hiring a professional Wedding Planner. They have sewing kits, makeup remover and a calm presence which helps with any last minute emergencies. They have made my contribution to the day easier as I am sure for the Photographer, DJ, Caterers and Florist.