by Nashmina Lakhani
Weddings are probably the biggest event in the life of any man or woman. And while girls plans their D-day from the time they are little, grooms turn into little blushing boys when they see their brides walk down the aisle or round the fire. That’s why a wedding can be nothing short of perfect. And that’s why wedding planners are in such big demand. They turn dreams into reality.So if you’re a wedding planner there are eight things you absolutely need to know starting today!
1. Certification is important: To start a business like wedding planning, you need to acquire enough knowledge. It is essential to do a certified course as a wedding planner to learn about event planning and the wedding industry. We aren’t doubting your creative ability to plan a wedding, but we are suggesting you learn the ropes before you enter this competitive market.
Mr. Neelabh Kapoor, Founder & Creative Director, Studio Neelabh says, “It is important to be certified as a wedding planner. There are various institutes all over India that provide exposure to events and the wedding planning business. This will help you gain theoretical knowledge as well as get an idea of on-field practices.”
2. Your client isn’t king, she is god: A bride can say, do and expect anything she wants. After all, she is the bride! To create her dream wedding, you must understand what exactly it is she wants. The theme, the colour scheme, the location, everything! Spend enough time with your client and ask the right questions. Then go the extra mile to make it all happen!
3. Creativity is everything: Your ideas and unique style are what will distinguish you from the rest of the wedding planners out there. Browse and brainstorm to come up with fresh ideas every single time. Then tie them together with an interesting concept before you take it to your client. Believe it or not, only your creativity and perfect planning can help you earn new customers because everyone wants a unique wedding.
Mr Neelabh adds to the above point, “You will always be known for your last show, so make sure to create lasting impressions.”
4. Ideas can always be made better: When you display your work to your client, don’t expect her to be thoroughly pleased. She may want to throw in her two bits and change things around. So be flexible enough to accept her suggestions and make changes. Remember, it’s her wedding, not yours.
“A wedding planner should never forget that a wedding is the most important day in the life of the couple, so plan and execute it with the personal touch it deserves. Make it special for the bride and groom for them to cherish it forever,” says Neha Goenka Shroff, Owner of Momente Wedding Planners.
5. Stay organised: It may be obvious but we cannot stress more on this. The more organised a wedding planner you are, the less the chances of things going wrong on D-day. Wedding planning is all about organising and making arrangements to perfection. So take notes, keep a schedule, put reminders on your phone and basically do everything it takes to get things done right.
6. Always have a Plan B: It is possible that you might have to make certain last-minute changes; be ready for that. Decorations, seating or even the flow of the wedding may need to be tweaked thanks to bad weather conditions, a delay in the bride’s arrival etc. An alternative plan will help you deal better with unforeseen circumstances.
7. Vendors are the lifeline of your business: Be a thorough professional while dealing with various vendors. Make payments on time, refer them to other people in the business and stay in touch even during off season. Connect with new vendors too, as they can be your alternative source for various requirements.
Neha Goenka Shroff adds to the above point, “Wedding planning is not a one-person job but a team effort, so you require a solid set-up, many experienced hands and an abundance of patience to create a lasting impression.”
8. Collaborations are beneficial: Collaborations help you widen your business horizon and sustain your company in a competitive market.
Mr. Neelabh Kapoor adds, “Collaboration is the key to success. Maintaining good relations with new as well as established people in the industry is very important. Work with people who can help you learn more about your business. And lastly believe in yourself.”
