Engagement season is possibly our favorite time of year! December has traditionally been the most popular month for couples to get engaged. As wedding planners, we often find we see a small lull in weddings at the end of the year which gives us a brief reprieve to gear up for new bookings that begin in January. During our complimentary consultations with newly engaged couples, we first focus on the important stuff… the proposal story and non-stop staring at the engagement ring. When we finally pull ourselves away from that exciting discussion, we typically receive the same initial questions revolving around the role of a wedding planner, fees for services, and the details of our packages.
To make the most of your complimentary consultation, we have compiled a list of commonly asked questions we receive during the first meetings with engaged couples.
1. How much do your services cost?
It depends. Great answer, right? Most wedding planners offer a set fee for coordination services only. Some packages may include set up and break down of decorations. Jane Carol Events is no different. We offer service packages for the coordination activities. We are however a bit unique that we also offer add-on items which can include rentals, additional set up and break down time, design of invitations, custom signs, and much more. It is best to say that our service cost depends on your needs. We customize your package based on your budget, needs, and vision.
2. Do you offer day of coordination?
Our service package does not specifically offer a "day of coordination" package. Why? Once we meet with a client during a consultation, we typically find that their needs are more than just a day of coordinator. Sometimes this is because the client becomes more educated on the role and benefits of hiring a wedding coordinator. Other times, it is because the client’s needs are more than we can successfully promise on the day of a wedding. Most wedding coordinators offer a day of coordination and can execute this package with grace and precision. Our best advice is to discuss your needs during a consultation and give the planner an opportunity to customize a package based on those needs.
3. If I hire a wedding planner, will I still be involved in the planning?
Yes, of course. That is if you want to be. Our role is to work together to plan your perfect day. Our goal is to relieve you of stress and guide you through the planning process, taking on various roles depending on your package. We have worked with couples who were completely hands on during the entire planning process and we LOVE that. We have also worked with couples who delegate the communication to the mother of the bride or other family members who have an important role in the big day. We love that too. Hiring a wedding planner gives you insight into expert planning advice, resources you may not have access to, and ultimately allows you to enjoy the celebration without taking on the stress of coordinating your event.
4. If I sign a contract for a service package, can I still add on items if I decide I need more?
Absolutely. This happens a lot. Couples often sign a contract for a specific coordination package, but then decide they want to add on rentals such as guest table décor and linens, along with additional set up or breakdown time the day of the event. At Jane Carol Events, we discuss pricing adjustments in advance and revise the contract when necessary.
5. What is the best way to communicate with our wedding planner?
All the packages offered by Jane Carol Events include unlimited text, calls, and emails. We use a wedding planning platform that is online and allows the couples to access their event, update information, see the status of their planning, as well as notes made by the planners. Some couples use this more than others, but it is another way to stay connected to the details of your event. The use of this online platform is also great for timelines to ensure that payments to vendors are made on time and guest lists are completed in a timely manner.
6. Do you offer any referral discounts?
We are glad you asked. Majority of our clients come to us through referrals. We offer a family and friends discount along with running various promotions throughout the year. You should always ask about promotions and discounts. We have even had brides offer to help work events to off-set the cost of their own services. Our point is we believe in the benefits of hiring a wedding planner and we will work with you and your budget to give you the best customized pricing package we can offer.