So, you’re engaged (congrats!) and ready to start planning the big day—but where do you even begin? One of the smartest first steps you can take is hiring a wedding planner.
These pros can turn your vision into reality, save you time (and maybe a few breakdowns), and help everything run smoothly.
But not all planners are created equal, and that’s where knowing the right questions to ask your wedding planner comes in handy.
Whether you’re meeting with potential planners for the first time or you’ve already narrowed it down, asking the right questions will help you figure out if they’re the perfect fit for your big day. Let’s dive in!
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1. Are You Available on My Wedding Date?
Sounds basic, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to ask this first. Before you get too deep into the details, make sure your date is open in their calendar.
2. What Services Do You Offer?
Some wedding planners offer full-service packages, while others specialize in day-of coordination or partial planning.
Be clear on what’s included—like venue scouting, vendor management, timeline creation, or design styling—so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
3. How Many Weddings Have You Planned?
Experience counts. You want someone who knows how to handle unexpected surprises, tight timelines, and different types of weddings. Ask how many weddings they’ve planned and if they’ve worked on one similar to yours in size or style.
4. Can You Work Within My Budget?
Be upfront about your budget and ask if they’re comfortable working with it. A good planner will know how to get the most out of your money without compromising your vision.
5. Do You Have Preferred Vendors?
Some planners come with a list of trusted florists, photographers, caterers, and DJs.
This can save you time and stress, but make sure you’re not locked into only working with those vendors if you already have favorites in mind.
6. How Do You Communicate With Clients?
Do they prefer emails, texts, or scheduled video calls? Do they respond quickly?
Setting expectations early will help you avoid misunderstandings and feel more comfortable throughout the planning process.
7. Will You Be at the Wedding in Person?
This one’s huge! Some larger planning companies may assign a lead planner for the actual event who isn’t the one you’ve been talking to.
Clarify if they’ll be there on the day or if someone else will take over.
8. How Many Other Weddings Will You Be Working on Around My Date?
If your planner is juggling five weddings in the same weekend, you might not get the personalized attention you need.
It’s important to understand how busy they are and how that might affect your planning experience.
9. Can I See Photos or References From Past Weddings?
Ask for a portfolio or even client testimonials. Seeing their work will give you a better sense of their style and how they bring a vision to life.
If you want a rustic garden wedding and all their photos are glam ballroom vibes, that might not be your match.
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10. What Happens If Something Goes Wrong?
Life happens. Ask what their backup plan is if they fall ill or something major comes up.
Do they have a team? Will someone step in? A professional planner should always have a Plan B.
11. How Do You Handle Wedding Day Emergencies?
From missing bouquets to surprise rainstorms, experienced planners know how to handle curveballs.
It’s worth hearing how they’ve dealt with past challenges to gauge their cool-under-pressure factor.
12. What’s Your Payment Structure?
Make sure you understand how and when payments are due. Is there a deposit? Do they charge a flat fee, an hourly rate, or a percentage of your total wedding cost?
13. Can You Help With Design and Styling?
If you’re looking for creative direction, ask if they offer design services. Some planners double as stylists, while others stick strictly to logistics.
14. Will You Help With Rehearsal and Post-Wedding Tasks?
Some planners are only involved on the day of, while others help coordinate the rehearsal and even return rental items the day after.
If you need help with those extras, ask early on.
15. What Makes You Different From Other Wedding Planners?
This is a great open-ended question to see their personality and passion shine through. Their answer could seal the deal—or help you realize they’re not quite the right fit.
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Final Thoughts
Choosing the right planner isn’t just about credentials—it’s about finding someone you genuinely trust and vibe with.
After all, this person will be your right-hand through one of the most emotional, exciting, and detail-packed times of your life.
So when in doubt, go back to your list of questions to ask your wedding planner and trust your gut. The right planner will make your dream day not only beautiful but blissfully stress-free.
Looking for more wedding planning tips? Stick around the blog for advice on everything from choosing your venue to writing the perfect vows. Let’s make your wedding unforgettable, one question at a time
