What To Ask Yourself When Hiring a Wedding Consultant

Today we wrap up our series about including a wedding consultant in your plans. I hope you have all enjoyed it!

Here is what you should ask yourself when hiring a wedding consultant:

1. Do your personalities mesh? No matter how talented she is, she needs to be someone who can share your vision.
   
2. What is your first impression? There are a lot of people in this industry. If something turns you off, don't wait. Look into hiring someone else.


3. Does she listen to what you have to say, or does she think this is her wedding? A good consultant should blend into the background and make sure you are the star of your day.


4. Is she looking out for your best interests, or is she referring you to vendors who pay her a cut? While there may be nothing wrong with those vendors, I believe that the best wedding consultant is one who does everything possible to put your needs first. This includes not taking kickbacks.
   
5. Can she take authority? You don't want someone who is a drama queen. However, you do want someone who can gracefully assert herself when necessary--whether she has to be firm with another vendor or tell an out-of-line guest to cool it.


6. If she has not worked with your venue in the past, is she going the extra mile to familiarize herself with the area? Southern California has endless locations for events, so it's normal for a consultant to have not worked with a venue before. However, she should be going out and meeting with the on-site coordinator and scoping everything out before your big day.


7. Is she established in the community? Does she hold the proper papers with her city and the state? Is she fully invested or just doing this as a hobby?


8. Does she respond to your inquires in a timely manner? This person is supposed to make your life easier. If it takes more than 24 hours for her to get back to you, you should be concerned.


9. What does your intuition tell you? You know if you are uncomfortable with something. If so, speak up.


10. Is she passionate about your wedding? Does she make you feel as if you are her only client? It's your special event, and you should feel important and taken care of.

We would be honored to be a part of your day, and we are happy to meet with you for a consultation. However, the most important thing to us is that you find good vendors who mesh with you and that you have an exquisite celebration that runs smoothly. Congratulations, you're getting married!