Top Things to Look For in a Wedding Planner

Hello Gorgeous!

Y’all, I might be biased here, but finding the right Wedding Planner for you is not only a lifesaver, but essential to having a great event AND enjoying the very short chapter of your life… Engagement! Planning a wedding can be one of the most exciting and joyful experiences of your life—OR it can also be an overwhelming and stressful time that is full of knee-jerk reactions and strained relationships… how about let’s not do that.

So, how do you find the best Wedding Planner for you when there are so many planners out there? How do you know who’s the perfect fit?

Here are the top 5 things every couple should look for when choosing a wedding planner.

Education and Training

Experience alone doesn’t make a wedding planner an expert. (Say in again for the folks in the back!) The wedding industry is constantly evolving—new trends emerge, best practices change, and regulations and vendor standards shift regularly. A professional wedding planner invests in continuing education, attends industry conferences, and stays up-to-date on the latest techniques and trends. Certifications from reputable organizations, such as the CWP Society, and specialized training in areas like design, budgeting, or logistics indicate that your planner is serious about mastering their craft and providing a high-level service for your wedding day.

Proven Experience

While education is important, the experience should be there too! (In addition to, y’all, not in lieu of!) Look for a planner who has successfully executed weddings similar in size, style, or complexity to your own. Ask to see a portfolio of past events and speak to previous clients, if possible. Experience shows that the planner has faced a variety of challenges and knows how to handle unexpected issues gracefully. Whether it’s a last-minute vendor cancellation or a weather-related hiccup, a seasoned planner will keep your day running smoothly without you even realizing a problem occurred.

Strong Vendor Relationships

A great wedding planner isn’t just organized—they’re well-connected. Strong relationships with trusted, dependable, professional vendors can make all the difference in the quality and execution of your wedding. Planners often (& quite frankly should) have preferred vendors they know and trust to deliver excellent service, stay within budget, and execute your vision flawlessly. Additionally, these relationships can sometimes lead to exclusive deals or perks that you wouldn’t have access to on your own. The right planner leverages their network to ensure every aspect of your wedding meets your standards and exceeds expectations.

Exceptional Communication Skills

Wedding planning is a collaborative process, and communication is KEY. A top-notch planner listens carefully to your vision, asks thoughtful questions, and communicates clearly with you and your vendors. You want someone who can translate your ideas into actionable plans while keeping you informed & educated every step of the way. Whether it’s through emails, phone calls, or in-person meetings, your planner should make you feel heard, understood, and supported—reducing stress instead of adding to it.

A True Fit for Your Personality and Style

Your wedding planner will be with you through some of the most personal moments of your life, so chemistry matters. Choose someone whose personality meshes well with yours, who understands your style, and who respects your preferences. They should share your aesthetic sensibilities, understand your vision, and make recommendations that enhance (not override) your vision. The right fit ensures a smoother planning experience and allows you to fully enjoy your engagement, wedding day, and maybe even gain a forever friend.

Your wedding planner is more than just someone who manages logistics—they’re your advocate, your problem-solver, and your support system. When you choose a planner with education, experience, strong vendor relationships, exceptional communication skills, and a personality fit, you’re not just hiring a professional—you’re investing in peace of mind and a wedding day that’s as seamless and special as you imagined.

Remember, the best wedding planners don’t just make your day look beautiful—they make the entire planning journey feel effortless. Investing in the right professional is one of the most important decisions you can make on your journey to “I do.”