"Real" Event Planners v. "Wannabies." 4 ways to tell the difference.

Author's note: First, let me start off by saying that we aren't writing this post to upset or offend anyone or any company in particular. To be honest, this post came as a result of a long conversation between a bride (let's call her "Julia") and me. She had wanted to know what the difference was, and so, IMO, here it is:

{Warning: I'm being straight forward and real here. Like the saying goes, if you can't take the heat, then stay out of the kitchen!}  ;)

1. Education/Experience. 

No, it is not enough that you watched JLo in The Wedding Planner. It's not enough that you planned your own wedding or helped your best friend with hers. Just like in any professional field, there are certifications, degrees and even plain old experience that are available and necessary. Brides or other event clients are relying on YOU to create that event or that everlasting memory and a "Whoops! I'm sorry!" or "OMG can you believe I almost forgot that?!" won't cut it when you screw up or forget something. No, this isn't necessarily a Corporate America career, but this shouldn't be your hobby or "job." If it is, then I'd consider it a high risk business that I would bet wouldn't make it past the short term.

So what should brides ask? "What is YOUR experience or education as a planner?" And planners, in retrospect, should be honest and upfront. For example, I came from a Fortune 500 company where I started my experience in this field and I also decided to first become certified as a wedding planner for added knowledge and to build that solid company foundation for No Limit Events. 

Looking to become a planner? Then learn the ropes the right way. I recommend you start with education. Next move into interning or job shadowing to learn the industry "in real time." Like many careers, it's quite different when you actually do it in the moment versus learning it from a text or course.

 

2. Insurance.

What if your planner gets sick on the day of your event? What if he/she has an accident and is unable to attend? Or worse, goes out of business and has your deposits/payments?

These are real and scary scenarios that no bride or event planner wants to go through. There are options for insurance as a planner and as a host/bride or groom (for one: WedSafe). Consider them! Outdoor events with no option for inside, unfamiliar territory, international events... insurance needs can be endless and unfortunately come in handy at unexpected times. 

 

3. A back up plan. 

Granted, if there is no option to move an outdoor event indoors, there must be a back up plan.  Clients/couples should have no fear in discussing this with your event planner.  Furthermore, they should not have to worry about an alternative plan on their own. This is, of course, what an event PLANner does (aside of many, many other things!).

 

4. Originality. 

Yep, I said it. Originality. Potential clients should always ask if the images they are looking at are THEIR work.  Are those YOUR flowers? Are those even your clients photographed? If not, say so or at least indicate where credit is due. 

I've particularly always dreamed of becoming an interior designer some day so (IMO), I think it's perfectly acceptable to judge a planner's taste and sense of style by the way they dress/carry themselves, office furniture/layout and color selections, and even by what catalogs or references are made!  Do they have the latest bridal magazines on their coffee tables? Are they familiar with the latest looks and colors? Granted, every planner has their OWN style and interests, but they should at least be versed in what's considered mainstream or popular.

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So there you have it.  And thank you "Julia" for the chat that sparked this post. I was honestly amazed that "Julia" had no idea how serious these 4 items were! 

Whether you're looking into a wedding or event planner or even just becoming one yourself, consider the 4 above. Be true to yourself and be honest! It can only bring good things, IMO...

Thoughts? Opinions? Want more?

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Gabriela is the partner and certified wedding/special event consultant for No Limit Events LLC as well as the main writer for the company blog, No Limit Events LLC: Bloggin’ It. She enjoys sharing fun and unique wedding ideas, which include helpful wedding and party related posts, inspirational photos and advice for those planning special celebrations. Gabriela lives in New Jersey with her husband and business partner, Justin, and their 2 lovable cats. Planning a luxurious wedding or special party? Please visit her blog and website for specials and helpful advice.