| 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?
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 Consultants 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 pf 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.
Do Bridal Consultants get “kickbacks”
from suppliers?
Some vendors do offer commissions to consultants, much as airlines pay
commissions to travel agents. Many consultants pass these commissions
to you in the form of additional savings. The Association strongly discourages
commissions, so in all cases, you should know how the consultant is
being paid and by whom. The ABC Code of Ethics requires they disclose
to you any payments received from suppliers.
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 the 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.
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.
Through ABC’s network, a bridal consultant
can handle much of the time-consuming, detailed planning for you 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 today’s modern family plans a wedding.
|
