When choosing a wedding planner, it can be quite daunting as the first task of your wedding planning journey. So Jacklyn Watson of JWE is here today to help you spot the difference between an experienced planner and someone just starting out. And Jackie’s best tip? Remember that you may work with this person for years, so make sure your personalities match, too! If you’re debating hiring a planner for your big day, tune in to hear why adding one to your vendor team could be one of the best decisions you make for your wedding and your budget.
Show notes
Jackie joins Sara Zarrella to explain the differences between full planning, partial planning, and month-of coordination. Since each service covers a different amount of work, she encourages couples to ask exactly what’s included before comparing prices. She also shares how a planner can help make the most of a budget, from choosing the right vendors to repurposing ceremony flowers at the reception.
How can couples tell whether a planner has the experience they need? Sara and Jackie suggest asking how the planner builds a budget, requesting references, and looking at galleries from real weddings similar to the one you envision. A clear contract and insurance matter, too. And before booking, have a conversation by phone, video, or in person to see whether you connect.
They also discuss AI in the wedding industry. It can help organize ideas, but beautiful marketing images don’t necessarily show a planner’s real work. Jackie’s advice is to look beyond the website, ask questions, and get to know the person who would be supporting you on your wedding day.
Key takeaways
Ask what each planning package includes and how your budget will be managed.
Request references and galleries of real weddings similar to yours.
Choose a planner whose experience, communication style, and personality feel like a good fit.
Listen and follow along
Please rate, review, and subscribe to Wedding Secrets Unveiled! wherever you’re listening so you never miss an episode. Even better, share it with a friend! It’s a great way to show your support and let Sara know what you think. Thank you for listening.
Find the podcast and full show notes
Watch on YouTube—and like and subscribe
Join the monthly newsletter for tips, tricks, and freebies
