Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a wedding planner?
A wedding planner can save you time and money when it comes to the many hours of research and planning. It typically takes an average of 250 hours to plan a wedding. A wedding planner can assist with finding reliable vendors that fit your perfect day. These vendors range from the caterer, ceremony venue, reception venue, florist, photographer, videographer, bridal salons, tuxedo rental, stationer, Officiant, rental companies and more. Wedding planning is very time consuming and we understand that today’s brides are very busy with their career and personal life. A planner will also assist you with your budget and keep you on track. A planner will also keep track of timelines, review contracts, coordinate with vendors, and coordinate the wedding day rehearsal. Family members, friends, or bridesmaids should not have to worry about any of the details of the wedding such as making sure place cards are set up, flowers have arrived, reception items set up correctly, etc. That is the job of a wedding planner. When you choose Essentially Elegant Events as your wedding planner, we handle every detail and it allows you and your family to relax and truly enjoy your special day.
What training and certifications does Essentially Elegant Events have?
Both owners have their Wedding and Event Planning Certifications through Lovegevity University. A copy of our certification is available upon request. Also, each owner has over 10 years of experience in wedding and event planning. We also attend wedding planner conferences to keep up with the changes in the industry.
How can I be assured that Essentially Elegant Events can bring my vision for my wedding to reality?
We have worked with all types of weddings and have over 20 years of experience combined. After our initial consultation, we will meet with you in person for as many hours as needed and go over your specific vision for your wedding. We integrate your ideas and our professional insight to create the wedding of your dreams. We review your pinterest boards (which is your inspiration), facebook, and instagram pages to get a feel for your style and personality. You can view our weddings and inspirations on our website at www.essentiallyelegantevents.com.
Is there a charge for our first meeting or consultation?
No, our first meeting is absolutely complimentary! All we ask is that you complete a brief Client Profile questionnaire to help us get to know a little bit about your vision for your wedding.
My event location already provides an onsite coordinator. Why do I need another one?
When working with a location coordinator, they typically handle only the responsibilities related to their specific venue. Essentially Elegant Events offers a more personal relationship in which we have a detailed understanding of your vision for your special day. We have met with your vendors and have the details of what you specifically want. We also create a wedding day timeline so that the ceremony and reception run smoothly and as you envisioned.
I am on a budget, can I really afford a wedding planner?
Yes! In fact, having a wedding planner can actually save you money. Essentially Elegant Events will not only prepare your budget for you, but we can also manage it. We are also trained to look for professional, budget friendly vendors and suppliers. We hand pick our vendors, so we know they are reliable and will ensure your needs are met.
What wedding planning services do you offer?
We offer various package to fit your individual budget and needs. We offer Full Service Planning, Partial Service Planning, and Month-of Wedding Planning packages.
How much are your packages?
Our packages range from $1,500 to $10,000 based on the package you choose and the services you desire and scope of your wedding.
How do you charge for services?
We require a non-refundable 50% deposit upon signing of a contract with Essentially Elegant Events. Another third is due in the next few months depending on the date of your wedding and the remaining balance is due two weeks before the wedding. We except cash, checks, and money orders.
Do you have preferred vendors and how do you determine which vendors to use?
Yes! We have preferred vendors that we have chosen based on experience with them. We work with vendors that are professional and reliable only. We try to tailor our vendors based on your individual budget, style, and personality.
What are your office hours?
Our office hours are Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Saturday - by appointment only. We also have later evening hours on select days upon request.
Do you have references?
Yes, we definitely do! You can also view some of our testimonials on our website at www.essentiallyelegantevents.com
Do you handle payments to our vendors?
No. All contracts are made directly with each vendor and all payments are made directly to them.
Do you have more than one wedding in a weekend?
No! This is your special day and we want every bride to have our undivided attention.
What will be Essentially Elegant Events specific role on the day of my wedding?
There will be two Wedding planners on site the day of your wedding for the ceremony and reception. We will be dressed professionally. We will coordinate all vendor set up on the day of the wedding and ensure that every detail is attended to and everything is set up as you envisioned. We will manage timelines for the ceremony and the reception.
Do you have liability insurance?
Yes!