TWM - The Region Spring 2014 | Page 78

expert advice Hiring a Wedding Planner: Necessity or Luxury? expert advice by akm events Michelle Nikitaras With AKM Events, every detail matters. Our team of experienced event planners and designers are dedicated to the customized expectations of each client. Our combined originality and business savvy ensure a flawless, unique affair. We offer customized packages to accommodate your every need. A consultant will help you plan all of your wedding day details as well as budget planning and organizing vendor spending. Hiring a wedding planner is a big decision for most brides. Some even think it's a luxury that they cannot afford. This is simply not true. Many planners have packages to complement any budget. To me and some other wedding professionals I know, hiring a wedding planner should be the easiest decision of your life. But, in the age of the DIY and Pinterest Bride, most are excited to tend to every detail herself. This makes perfect sense! Except… there are some advantages to seeking the help of a professional that you may not know about. This expertise could be invaluable to the bride and groom. Exclusive connections. Wedding planners are often privy to industry discounts and can negotiate contracts on your behalf. Some vendors even offer special pricing if you book through your wedding planner. They have also worked with many different vendors and have experience with choosing the best in the industry to suit your needs. For instance when choosing a photographer, you would want someone that understands your style and family dynamic. After all, they would be capturing the most important moments of the day. This is true with all of your vendors and a planner can assist you with this process. Your wedding planner will help you choose the perfect vendors without breaking the bank. Remember, your planner has done this countless times before. 78 | Photo Credit: Esther Gallarday