10 Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring Your Wedding Planner

Hiring a wedding planner is one of the most important decisions you’ll make while planning your big day. After all, this is the person who will guide you through vendor meetings, budgets, timelines, and—most importantly—your actual wedding day. But not all planners are the same, and finding the right fit is about more than just logistics.

So how do you know if someone is the one—for your wedding planning, that is?

Here are 10 essential questions to ask before saying “yes” to your planner.

1. What types of planning services do you offer?

From full-service planning to wedding day management, the support you need will shape who’s the best fit. Be clear on whether you’re looking for someone to walk with you from the beginning or just step in closer to the day.

At Chelsea Quenum Weddings & Design, I offer three tailored packages to meet you where you are: full-service planning, design & management, and wedding day management.

2. How many weddings do you take on at once?

This helps you gauge how hands-on a planner will be. You deserve someone who has the margin and attention to truly invest in your day.

3. Have you worked at our venue or in our region before?

A planner familiar with your venue or area will bring insider knowledge and trusted vendor connections that can make everything more seamless.

4. How do you handle vendor recommendations?

A great planner will match you with vendors who align with your style, priorities, and budget—not just a preferred list.

5. What’s your communication style and how often will we be in touch?

Do you prefer frequent updates or big-picture check-ins? Clear communication is everything, and you want to feel at ease from day one.

6. Can you walk me through your planning process?

From your first consultation to your final send-off, a strong planner has a clearly defined process that removes the guesswork and keeps you grounded.

I walk each couple through a personalized planning journey with calm, intentional guidance—so you always know what’s coming next.

7. How do you handle unexpected challenges on the wedding day?

This one is key. You want someone who handles pressure with grace, can make decisions quickly, and keeps everything running smoothly while you’re off sipping champagne.

8. What sets you apart from other planners?

Ask this one and then listen closely. Their answer should reflect more than their credentials—it should speak to their values, presence, and how they show up for you.

9. How do you support the overall guest experience?

A good planner makes the day beautiful. A great one makes it feel beautiful—for you, your families, and every guest.

10. Do you feel like we’re a good fit?

Because honestly, this matters. Your wedding planner is your advocate, your sounding board, and your calm in the chaos. You want to feel confident in their care.

Final Thoughts

Asking the right questions helps you move forward with clarity—and peace of mind. If you’re looking for a planner who offers thoughtful guidance, deep organization, and a genuine commitment to your joy, I’d love to connect.