Your Ultimate Guide: Questions to Ask a Wedding Planner

According to the Pros

How do you decide on the best wedding planner for your celebration? Well, first of all you find a few potential candidates on The Knot Vendor Marketplace. Then, there are a few questions to ask a wedding planner that you should know about before you commit to a pro. Wedding planners are a little bit like glue and a little bit like a composer. They hold the wedding together while also orchestrating every moving piece. In short, they're a key part of a strong vendor team. And finding the right pro to address your priorities and plan a wedding that's authentic to you is paramount.

We've gathered a comprehensive list of 32 questions every to-be-wed should ask while interviewing potential wedding planners to help ensure a smooth planning process. Plus, wedding experts weigh in on why these queries are so important for you to keep in mind.

Wedding Planner Questions Background, Experience and Business Ethos

You're hiring a wedding planner because of their expertise, so now is the time to get a sense of exactly how much experience and knowledge they bring with them. Additionally, you want to understand their mission and vision as a business owner to see how they align with your goals.

3. What sets them apart from their peers and differentiates their company?

This is a favorite interview question among wedding planners. It allows them to reflect on their identity as a business owner and the unique qualities they bring to the table. It's not about competitiveness but about understanding their approach to their work and their connection with clients.

4. What are their company's values and why? How do they translate into the work they do?

Asking about a planner's values helps ensure alignment with your own ethos and vision for your wedding. It's essential to partner with a planner who shares your values and is enthusiastic about supporting you during this special time.

5. How many weddings have they planned?

Wedding-specific experience is crucial. While experience in other events is valuable, weddings have unique emotional and personal elements that require specific expertise. Ask about their wedding planning experience and their role in previous weddings.

6. How many weddings will they be working on at the same time (day-of and throughout the entire process)?

Ensure that the planner can devote adequate attention to your wedding. While it's common for planners to handle multiple weddings, especially during the planning process, make sure they won't be stretched too thin on your big day.

7. Can they provide more information about the structure of their team and business?

Understanding the team structure and the planner's role within their business is essential. This question helps you gauge their level of experience, the size of their team, and their ability to provide personalized attention throughout the planning process.

8. What are their primary areas of expertise?

While a planner may be capable of various tasks, it's crucial to know their areas of expertise. Ensure they excel in areas that are important to you and specialize in your type of event.

9. Have they planned weddings at your chosen site before?

Experience with your venue can be invaluable. A planner familiar with the venue's layout and logistics can help ensure a smooth wedding day. Ask for photos from previous weddings at the site to get an idea of their work.

10. Do they handle destination weddings?

If you're planning a destination wedding, ensure the planner is willing to travel and has experience coordinating weddings remotely. This requires additional coordination skills, so it's essential to confirm their experience in this area.

11. How do they stay calm under pressure and handle day-of disasters?

A wedding planner's ability to remain composed under pressure is crucial. Ask about their backup plans and problem-solving strategies to ensure they can handle any unexpected issues on your wedding day.

12. Do they have references?

Requesting testimonials from previous clients and professionals they've worked with allows you to assess their track record. A willingness to provide references and encourage contact demonstrates their confidence in their work.