Four Things to Expect When Talking to an Event Planner
Hiring an event planner for the first time can be intimidating. If you've seen them on TV, then you probably have in mind a larger than life, whirling dervish - a no-nosense fashionista with a magic wand and a pocket full of glitter.
Most planners, however, are less likely to be seen in the limelight than they are in the trenches. Event professionals, afterall, are service personel. We are here for you. It's our job to make your life easier. But initial meetings - like first dates - have a certain protocol. Here are a few tips for avoiding a breach of event planning etiquette.
1. Know the purpose of your event.
Planning an event can be quite stressful. It's extremely important that you set a goal and share that goal with your planner. Is the purpose of your wedding just to get married? Probably not. Maybe you want to create a memory that you can share with your friends and family. Or perhaps you feel like the most important takeaway from the day are elaborate photos. This is extremely important for your planner to know. He or she can start planning with your ultimate goal in mind. Also, success is easier to measure when you have set firm goals.
2. Come prepared to share you budget.
A good event planner isn't going to negotiate their pricing. They are already giving you the best price they can. Managing your budgetary expectations is one of your planner's most important jobs! You might as well be honest about your budget limitations. It saves a ton of time and money!
3. Listen to the experts!
You may have been thinking about your event for long time, but your event planner has actually done it. It's important to be prepared to listen to your planner's opinion. They already have a pretty good idea about what will work and what won't.
4. Expect a pocket full of glitter.
Okay, so we don't have magic wands, but we are always looking for ways to add a little magic to your event. Expect your planner to suggest something unexepected.
