You may choose to plan the entire wedding yourself or have a family member and even a friend to help, which is sometimes part of the fun of the wedding. However, it can also be a huge hassle and a headache especially if you, your family member, or friend does not have the experience in planning and coordinating a wedding. In addition to finding wedding vendors, you'll need to check out sources, make sure all the details are in place, and worry about whether you're getting the best deal, and ultimately, wonder if everything will turn out right. A professional wedding planner has the experience to do the ground work, and make sure it all works the way you want it to, while you relax and enjoy.

Engaging a wedding planner does not mean you lose control of the planning process. The final decision on which supplier you want to engage to the type of flowers you want for your bridal bouquet still lies with you. It is money well spent to have a wedding planner overseeing the service providers that you have spent an investment with to ensure that your day goes just as you have paid for and planned. You can afford a wedding planner if you consider the planning a part of your wedding budget. Your wedding planner will even be able to save you money by suggesting the appropriate vendors that will provide services to accommodate your budget.

When you hire a wedding planner you know that you are buying quality, service, knowledge, professionalism, creativity, guidance, leg work, a stress reliever, an etiquette expert and a personal assistant and friend. What could be better than that for the most important day of your life?

A good wedding consultant provides you with a comprehensive overview of what to expect in the preparation of a wedding event, advises you on the right and trustworthy selection of banquets, florists, bridal shops, photographers, etc -- but most of all, stands by you to ensure that all your desires for the wedding come true with perfect moments. Trust is important in any relationship. You should feel completely comfortable with the coordinator and feel assured that he or she completely understands what your needs are.

Planning a wedding involves so many details that you may find you need help. A good wedding or bridal consultant will take care of the details, bring you in under budget and help you have a stress-free and enjoyable wedding.

STEP 1	Ask friends or relatives who have recently been married for referrals, or check with other wedding vendors.
STEP 2	Make appointments with at least two consultants. Most consultants offer a free initial consultation without any obligation.
STEP 3	Tell the consultant what type of wedding you have in mind and whether you are working with a budget.
STEP 4	Ask about payment.  Different consultants have different ways of charging.  Over at Touching Hearts Wedding Concepts, we charge a flat rate based on the amount of work required from us.
STEP 5	Give the consultant a list of the services you need so that she can give you an estimate.
STEP 6	Ask to see pictures of weddings they have coordinated or assisted in.
STEP 7	Select a consultant with whom you feel comfortable with. In the end, the relationship is all about trust.
STEP 8	Always sign a written contract stating when and how much you will pay for the services you require.