In addition to helping make your wedding dreams come true within your budget – and perhaps saving you from costly mistakes - a consultant will save you time. With today’s hectic lifestyle, many bridal couples and their families do not have the time for the detailed planning and work that a beautiful wedding requires.

Won’t a consultant want to run the whole show?
A professional bridal consultant will work with you to handle as much or as little of your wedding as you wish. After all, it’s your wedding. The consultant is there to help you and your family and make the day as perfect as possible.

Why can’t I do the planning myself?
You certainly can do the planning yourself, and that sometimes is part of the fun. But it also can be a hassle: checking out many sources for each vendor category, making sure all the details are in place and worrying about whether you’re getting the best deal and whether everything will turn out right. An ABC bridal professional has the training and experience to make it all come together while you relax.

Do I need a contract with my consultant?
You should have some agreement in writing. While some people prefer a formal contract, a letter of agreement signed by both of you is usually enough. This is an informal contract which spells our fees, payment schedules, and what each of you will do.

What qualities should I look for in a consultant?
You should be comfortable with the person. You will be spending a lot of time together planning one of the major rites of passage in your life.

How can I tell if a Bridal Consultant is reputable?
All Association of Bridal Consultant members agree to uphold the ABC Code of Ethics and Standards of Membership. Look for the Association’s logo and ask to see a current ABC membership certificate or contact the Association to verify a bridal consultant’s status. Be sure to ask the consultant during the interview what kind of education and experience they have. The designation of Professional Bridal Consultant ™ is awarded to Association members who have completed the Professional Development Program. Some senior members have the designation of Accredited Bridal Consultant™ or Master Bridal Consultant™. Each of these has a certificate and indicates higher levels of training and experience. Some members also participate in Association–sponsored seminars and workshops. Certificates indicating that they have completed this training also may be displayed.

What will a Bridal Consultant charge?
ABC discourages its consultants from charging a percentage of the cost of the wedding. Most ABC consultants charge an hourly rate or a fixed fee, or a combination of both. All these methods are acceptable, but you should clarify in writing how and when you will compensate your wedding coordinator for his or her services.

A wedding consultant is part of your budget, not an extra expense. In fact, you often save money because a consultant suggests affordable alternatives that still enhance your wedding. The professional bridal consultant will work with you to produce your dream wedding, including the consultant’s fee, all within your budget.

How can I tell if a Bridal Consultant is providing a quality vendor?
Bridal Consultants work with many different wedding vendors and service providers. They have experience to know who is best suited for your wedding. The consultant’s reputation depends on the quality of the services you receive. A bridal professional is committed to providing the best possible wedding for the lowest possible cost. Also the consultant’s job is to keep you on budget.

The Association of Bridal Consultants is the only organization dedicated exclusively to serving wedding professionals –and brides- worldwide since 1955. www.BridalAssn.com