Finding the Perfect Wedding Planner: Questions to Ask Before You Book
💍 You’ve got your date set and maybe even a stunning vineyard venue like Riviera Vines booked (good choice!). Now it’s time to find that one person who’s going to help bring your wedding vision to life—a wedding planner! Wedding planners are now included in all of our packages for Month-of-Planning support but if you’re not one of our couples, we know picking the right planner can feel a little daunting. After all, this is the person who’ll be by your side through the whole process, making sure everything goes off without a hitch. But don’t worry! We’ve got your back with some easy tips and questions to ask when you’re meeting with potential planners.
Let’s dive in and find that perfect match!
Step 1: Why Hire a Wedding Planner?
First things first, why hire one? Whether you’re having a chapel wedding or a laid-back reception at a small venue, a wedding planner can take care of all those little details so you can just relax and enjoy your day. They’ll help with timelines, vendors, decor, and those “what if” moments no one wants to think about.
Step 2: Do Your Research
Before you book a meeting, do a bit of homework:
Check reviews: Look at past client feedback to see if a planner’s style fits your vision.
Browse social media: Planners often post their work on Instagram, so you can get a feel for their vibe. Bonus points if you see they’ve worked at venues like yours!
Ask for recommendations: Your venue (ahem, us!) often has a list of trusted planners who know the ins and outs of the space.
Step 3: Questions to Ask During Consultations
So, you’ve found a few planners that caught your eye. Now, it’s time to sit down and chat. Here are the key questions to ask:
1. Are you available on our wedding date?
This one’s obvious, but it’s a must-ask. If they’re already booked, it’s better to know right away.
2. Have you planned weddings at venues like mine?
Each space has its own unique vibe—whether it’s a sunset ceremony or a cocktail hour. It helps if your planner knows how to make the most of it.
3. What’s included in your services?
Some planners handle it all—design, day-of coordination, and even vendor bookings. Others might focus just on the big day itself. Make sure you know what you’re getting!
4. Can you work with our budget?
Be upfront about your budget so there are no surprises later. A great planner will have tips on how to get the most bang for your buck.
5. How do you handle unexpected issues?
Things don’t always go as planned (like sudden rain on your outdoor ceremony). Ask how they handle last-minute changes so you can rest easy.
6. Do you have preferred vendors?
Planners often have a list of go-to vendors they trust. At Riviera Vines, we work with some amazing local caterers, photographers, and florists. It’s a good sign if your planner already has connections in our area.
7. Can we see examples of your past work?
Looking at photos or videos from past weddings can help you decide if their style matches what you’re going for. Maybe you’ll even get some new ideas!
8. What’s your communication style?
You’re going to be working closely with this person for months, so make sure you’re on the same page. Do they prefer emails, texts, or phone calls? Are they quick to respond?
9. How do you charge?
Ask about fees—are they hourly, a flat fee, or a percentage of your budget? You don’t want any surprise costs creeping up later.
Step 4: Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, picking a wedding planner is a lot like dating (but with way less pressure). You want someone you click with, who gets your vision, and who you trust to handle the details. If you’re excited to work with them, that’s a good sign!
Step 5: Book Early!
The best planners get booked up fast, especially if you’re tying the knot at a popular venue. Once you find someone who checks all your boxes, don’t wait too long to lock them in.
Final Thoughts
We recognize that finding the right planner is key to making your wedding day go well which is why we are now including them in our packages. If you don’t book with us and have to find your own planner, ask the right questions, trust your instincts, and you’ll be in good hands. And if you’re still looking for the perfect spot to celebrate your big day, come visit us at Riviera Vines. We’d love to show you around!
Happy planning, lovebirds! 🥂