When is the right time to seek help planning a wedding?
Every time a couple books my services, they always check that they’ve booked me at an appropriate time for their wedding date. The truth is, there is no real hard and fast rule. But hopefully this journal post will provide some reassurance as to whether or not employing a wedding planner (or any of my services) is right for you - and when is the best time to do it!
Full Planning
This is the most comprehensive service that we offer. You may have already sourced a venue and booked a couple of suppliers, but want some assistance with everything else. Or you may not have a venue at all and want some support from the very beginning. Usually couples will book a wedding planner for a full plan between 12 and 24 months before their wedding. If you already have a venue, then 12-18 months before is fine. Having said that, it is possible to plan a wedding in less than 12 months - so there really is no strict rule with this one!
Wedding Design
Our wedding design service (also included in the Full Planning package) can be booked anywhere between 6 and 12 months before your wedding. Ideally I help you source a florist, so that the design is totally cohesive. However, if you already have a florist then I can absolutely work with them to create the most amazing design proposal, ensuring the florals marry with the overall aesthetic. I recommend couples book Wedding Design if they have booked their venue and suppliers but are really struggling to know how to go about ensuring their day looks sensational. The beauty of this service is that I am also there on the day to set-up your reception room.
Day coordination
On-the-day coordination (also included in the Full Planning package) is not just me rocking up on your wedding day. Work for this begins 6-8 weeks before your wedding. I liaise with all your suppliers, create a timeline for the day, ensure there are no hidden ‘scaries’ in any contracts, set-up your wedding, run the day and oversee pack-up. I am also there to guard you from any last minute surprises, and trust me, there will be some! You don’t need that stress in the lead up to your wedding. I recommend booking day coordination 6-8 months before your wedding (note: I do not take day coordination bookings any more than 8 months before your wedding, unless booked alongside another package).
My biggest piece of advice with this one: If you’re having a marquee wedding, it is essential that you have an on-the-day coordinator.
Consultation hours
Fortunately, these are completely bespoke to your needs. Consultation hours can be booked in the day before our call (availability permitting). I just need a heads up as to what your specific requirement is. Be it budget planning, wedding design, sourcing tableware - whatever! You can book just one hour, or bulk buy 3 or more sessions for a 10% discount.
I hope that has provided a little clarity about when the ‘right’ time to employ a wedding planner is. The important thing to remember is it’s never too late.
