The Reality of Being a Wedding Planner: Dream Job or a Nightmare?

What is it about being a wedding planner that makes so many girls dream about it? Is it the glamorous idea of being in the spotlight at important events? Is it the fact that Jennifer Lopez portrayed one in The Wedding Planner? Is it the idea of spending someone else's money on extravagant food and decorations? It may be all of the above and more. But is becoming a wedding planner a viable option for a career? Read on to find out my experiences as a wedding planner and tips to help you decide if this is your future.

What is a wedding planner?

A wedding planner or wedding consultant can do different things. The job description varies from planner to planner and even from wedding to wedding. I work for a corporation that includes wedding and event planning advice as part of their service. Many wedding planners are independent and self employed. Some planners manage every detail of the event from helping the bride find her dress and choose vendors to resolving disputes with family members. Other planners just help with small tasks or oversee the event just on the day it is happening. There is no clear definition of what the wedding planner must do. When hiring a wedding planner, brides must decide what needs they have and pick someone who is best equipped to fill those needs.

Who hires wedding planners?

It is a misconception that only wealthy brides and celebrities use wedding planners. Almost every bride would like a wedding planner. Planning a large event without any prior experience is daunting. The expense for a wedding planner can vary greatly depending on what services they provide. A good wedding planner can actually save a bride money because they often get discounts from vendors and know what is necessary and what can be cut out of the budget.

How do I become a wedding planner?

There are two ways to become a wedding planner. You can work for someone else or start your own business. Both have pros and cons. Choosing to work for someone else guarantees a steady income and you will often be provided with benefits like health plans and time off. Working for yourself means you have unlimited potential but it is also a harder road. Either path you take will require hard work. You must be familiar with all wedding customs especially in your area. Networking with vendors and understanding what services and products they provide is very important. Gaining experience is crucial and the best way to do that is by working with an experienced planner. Having a mentor can help you understand what is expected of you and how weddings are handled.

If you decide to start your own business you will need to get a business license and find out any laws that may be applicable to running your business from your home. You will also need to advertise. Marketing can be expensive so start out with what you can handle. Build partnerships. Most wedding planners make money two ways. The first way is by the bride paying upfront for your services. The second way is by what are called "kickbacks". Often other vendors like florists and photographers will give you a percentage back from what you direct your bride to purchase from them. Ten or fifteen percent is a common amount.

What are realities of being a wedding planner?

The reality is that it is seldom a glamorous job. Most of what you will be doing is legwork, errands, reading the fine print on contracts and doing what others ask you to. You may be the "planner" but you won't actually be making most of the decisions. The bride will most likely have a clear idea of what she wants for her wedding. Your job will be to make it happen. Problem solving and people skills are your most important assets. You will often be involved in finding compromises to disputes between the bride and the other members of the wedding. You may also be required to do setting up of tables and chairs and doing other tedious tasks. You will often be blamed for all problems that arise. It will be hard not to take things personal. However, if you learn to handle all of these things and always do your best you can be successful. You will often form deep personal relationships with the bride and groom. Their wedding day is so important to them and you will be helping to create their dream. Being a wedding planner may be hard but it may also be the most rewarding job out there.