ABC's: "Want to be a guest at your own wedding?" Brochure!

As a member of the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC), a wide range of helpful informational materials is always at my fingertips. Recently, the ABC updated their brochure about the helpfulness of their trained bridal consultants. The brochure answers some FAQ's and give a good bit of publicity to us hard working wedding planners!  With full credit to ABC, here is the brochure reprinted (or retyped, rather) on The Paisley Press!

Want to be a guest at your own wedding?

Hire a professional bridal consultant.

What will a professional Bridal Consultant do for me?
In addition to helping you 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 lifestyles, many bridal couples and their families do not have the time for the detailed planning and work that a beautiful wedding requires.

Wont 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 is your wedding. The consultant is there to help you and your family and make the day as perfect as possible.

Why cant 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 any 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 all 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 out fees, payment schedules and what each of you will do. 

What qualities should I look for in a consultant?

It is important you look for one with professional credentials. You should also be very 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 us 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 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. Our members work towards the designation of Professional Bridal Consultant once they have completed the professional development program. 

What will a bridal consultant charge?
Most ABC consultants charge an hourly rate, or a fixed fee, or a combination of both. All of 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 consultants' 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 the best suited for you wedding. The consultants 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.

How can i pull it all together?
My family lives in a different part of the country and we are getting married in another place. 

Though ABC's network, a member can work with more than 4000 other members worldwide to help you arrange your wedding wherever you choose- in your home town, in your parents' home town, or at a special destination of your choice.

How can a bridal consultant help?

We are a typical family-divorces, relatives and working parents.

With so many brides and their parents working, a bridal consultant can handle much of the time-consuming, detailed planning for your wedding. you save time, reduce stress, and concentrate on having fun as your wedding approaches. An experienced consultant can often smooth the complex relationships found when todays modern family plans a wedding.

Do I need a bridal consultant?
A consultant will be a distinct asset as you plan your wedding. Wouldn't it be nice to spend time with your fiance and your families, rather than worrying about all the details of your special day? A consultant will take care of those details, leaving you to have the fun. And on your wedding day, you are the star, while your consultant works behind the scenes to make your dreams come true!

Remember: This is you once in a life time day!

Let an ABC professional bridal consultant handle the details for you. Its your big day. Make certain it turns out perfectly- and enjoy your wedding!