Enlisting an industry expert makes wedding planning a breeze.
Words by Andrea Smith
Despite the growing cost of hosting a wedding, many couples still opt to hire a planner because they realize their value as industry experts who can make the Big Day flow as smoothly as possible.
According to “The Knot,” 37% of 2023 couples enlisted a wedding planner, compared to 30% in 2019. Leeanne Rocheleau Spadola, founder of Luxe + Lovely Events in Delaware, acknowledges that while the expense of hiring a professional can be high, the return on investment benefits couples, their families, and guests.
“We’re that neutral person in the planning process,” Spadola says. “Your friends and family mean well, but it can be overwhelming when they’re coming to you from different angles and giving you a lot of information. We have a refined ability to help create your dream day while saving you time and stress—all while being mindful of the budget we’ve created together.” By getting to know the couple, Spadola explains, she can provide finely tuned service.
“According to “The Knot,” 37% of 2023 couples enlisted a wedding planner, compared to 30% in 2019.”
Most professional planners charge thousands of dollars for full service, but cost shouldn’t be your sole focus, Spadola says. She advises evaluating a planner based on their experience. “You should find vendors who you mesh well with and who will take the time to get to know you and have your best interests in mind. You can always find a less expensive option, but the level of professionalism could vary drastically.”
During a consultation or “discovery call,” your prospective planner should disclose what level of service best suits your needs. A full-service planner provides guidance from the very beginning to post-reception, offering recommendations based on a couple’s vision and budget. They’ll review all vendor contracts and ensure you’re on track as your wedding draws near.
Event designers create your aesthetic and bring it to life, while event management coordinators, or “day-of” coordinators, oversee setup, run the timeline, and supervise on-site vendors. Both the designer and coordinator are typically included in a full-service package but are also available for individual hire.
An effective planner makes sure to understand the clients’ vision so they’re prepared to carry out any last-minute changes. While the couple has the final say on all decisions leading up to the wedding, planners take over on the day of so their clients can enjoy every moment—after all, you don’t want to worry about how chairs are arranged, what to do when the DJ’s car breaks down, or liaising with every vendor.
“An effective planner makes sure to understand the clients’ vision so they’re prepared to carry out any last-minute changes. While the couple has the final say on all decisions leading up to the wedding, planners take over on the day of so their clients can enjoy every moment.”
“We problem-solve on the spot, and our strong attention to detail allows us to hyper focus in all the areas that matter, so our couples can just breathe and enjoy the happiness of the day.”
Spadola believes everyone should have the opportunity to work with a planner in some capacity. So if cost is a concern, consider a wedding-coaching service. “This is where we meet with you and provide professional advice for any details you need help with and guide you so that you can do the actual legwork seamlessly.”
Wedding planning should be fun, Spadola adds. “And it can be. It doesn’t have to be stressful. We’re here to elevate your experience—and your wedding day.”