How to Choose a Wedding Consultant:
18 Essential Questions

Thinking about a wedding consultant? Before you do, be sure to do your homework. Here are a few tips to help you choose wisely.

Does the consultant have a business license or at least a DBA registration?
Do they have liability insurance?
Ask for a resume.
How long have they been in business?
How many weddings do they do a year?
What size weddings has the consultant managed?
Ask for a list of vendors that the consultant works with.
Can the consultant provide you with references? Ask for both bride referrals and vendor referrals.
Check out well the referrals that the consultant gives you. Do they have good reputations in the local business community? Do they all have licenses, insurance and health permits (if they are in the food industry)?
Does the consultant have a contract? Ask for a copy in advance for your review.
When is payment due, is there a deposit required?
Does the consultant have a staff or "back-up" system in case he/she becomes unavailable on your wedding day?
Does the consultant accept referral fees/commissions? Do NOT work with any consultant who receives referral fees/commissions.
What exactly does the consultant do? Are they able to work with you on an individual meeting basis or do they only only work on the full production?
Can the consultant work within your budget? Be sure to determine your budget before meeting with the consultant. Be firm.
Is the consultants pricing all-inclusive? No surprise expenses down the road? What exactly are they doing for that fee?
Does the consultant seem organized, efficient, creative and able to listen to your ideas and translate them into reality?
Do you have a theme wedding/reception in mind? If so, can the consultant accommodate the arrangements?
Your consultant will not only need to be able to provide you with ideas, but also listen to yours.
How often will the consultant provide you with written updates on your wedding planning? (Yes, written – with so many details, you will need everything on paper.)
Will the consultant be at the rehearsal and wedding day throughout? Is this within the fee quoted or is it additional?
How will the consultant be attired on the day of the wedding?
Remember, this is an interview and you need to feel confident with your decision. In addition to professional ability, you also need to like the consultant and feel comfortable with the personality fit.

ABOVE ALL, IT'S YOUR DAY

VIEW: Wedding Consultant Vendors