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WHAT WILL A BRIDAL CONSULTANT DO FOR ME?
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 a beautiful wedding requires. A professional consultant, working with you, can handle the details, allowing you the freedom to do what you want to do.
DO I NEED A CONTRACT WITH MY CONSULTANT?
You should have some agreement in writing. A formal contract probably is not necessary; a letter of agreement, signed by both of you, usually is enough. This is an informal contract, which spells out what each of you will do.
HOW CAN I TELL IF A CONSULTANT IS REPUTABLE?
All Association of Bridal Consultants' members agree to uphold a Code of Ethics and Standards of Membership. Look for the Associations logo and ask to see a current membership certificate; contact the Association to verify a bridal consultant's status.
WHAT TRAINING DO BRIDAL CONSULTANTS RECEIVE?
Bridal consultants have pledged to work with you to develop your wedding professionally. Many have formal training and experience in event planning and in specialities related to weddings, such as flowers and catering.The Association of Bridal Consultants designates as a Professional Bridal Consultant a member who has completed an extensive study program on the wedding business. Look for the members certificate - or for certificates showing the member has completed individual courses towards this designation. Senior members may have the designation of Accredited Bridal Consultant or Master Bridal Consultant, each of which has a certificate and indicates higher levels of training and experience. Some members also participate in Association-sponsored seminars and workshops; certificates indicating they have completed this training also may be displayed.
WHAT WILL A BRIDAL CONSULTANT CHARGE?
It is normal for a consultant to charge about 15 percent of the cost of the wedding. Some consultants charge an hourly rate or a fixed fee, or some combination of these. Others charge nothing and earn their income from supplier commissions. All these methods are acceptable, but you should determine in advance how your consultant will be paid.
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