If you’re like me, your wedding was already planned on Pinterest when you got engaged. But dreaming about it and coordinating all the logistics that come with a wedding is a different story! For a stress-free experience, consider hiring an expert. Rachel Bentley of Bentley Wedding Planning is a Middle Georgia wedding planner ready to help with everything from day-of coordinating, to making all of your wedding dreams a reality with her full service planning. Today’s blog post is a question and answer with Rachel, where she clarifies all your most pertinent questions about the planning process!

What does a wedding planner do?

My main priority is to take stress off of my clients. I’ll find all the vendors that you’ll need for your event, from a photographer and a caterer to transportation and a rental company. I’ll keep track of your wedding budget, track your guests’ RSVPs, assist with theme and color scheme, and create a wedding day timeline. Every planner offers different services, so ensure your needs will be met before hiring one!

What does a wedding planner cost?

Depending on your event and needs, planners can really cost any amount under the sun. According to WeddingWire, the average starting cost in the U.S. is around $3,000. You’ll get lower prices if you’re in my neck of the woods, in Middle Georgia. My full planning package is $1,000 with an option to add on wedding day coordination for $350.

What’s the difference between a planner and a coordinator?

A wedding coordinator typically joins the process about a month prior to your
wedding. They’ll follow up with the vendors to confirm all the details of the day, and they’ll be at the venue on wedding day ensuring everything goes according to plan. A wedding planner on the other hand, does the actual planning and handles the logistics of the event. They handle the prep work that could then potentially be picked up by a wedding coordinator closer to the wedding day.
Bentley Wedding Planning is a solo organization, so I handle both wedding planning and coordination!

Any tips for brides?

1. You should try to hire your planner well in advance, but that’s not to say skip one altogether if you don’t have much time! Part of our job is to work efficiently under pressure. However, for the best experience and service, try to hire your wedding planner at least 10-12 months prior to your wedding.
2. When choosing a venue, take into consideration the max number of guests they can accommodate, the amount of indoor and outdoor options in case of less-than-desirable weather, and their AC/heat capabilities depending on the time of year.
3. My last tip for couples planning their wedding is to read. vendor. contracts. I know they’re long and boring, but reading the fine print will protect you from many potential stipulations. Wedding planners should be fluent in contract-reading, so have them read all your contracts before you sign anything!

We know navigating the wedding process can be stressful and we want your wedding day to be anything but that! This is a once in a lifetime season and it’s important to hire vendors who understand your vision and want to celebrate your unique story. To inquire about my wedding photography services, please visit my Weddings page. It would be an honor to document your special day. For more information on Rachel’s wedding planning services, please visit her website!