1. Will the consultant commit to your budget and not push you in the direction of things you simply can't afford?
ANSWER: Yes. In Any Event will help you to structure and manage your budget, as well as organize book keeping for the wedding. If we cant work within your price range, we wont take the job. We will never forsake the budget.
2. Will the consultant devise a master plan mapping out all the little details, from announcement to zebra-striped decor? (This will clue you in to organizational prowess and a willingness to keep you in the loop on every matter imaginable.)
ANSWER: Yes. Once we begin working together, you will receive a master plan with every detail in writing so there are no hidden costs or surprises. Status reports on the progress of your event will be emailed on a regular basis.
3. Can the consultant name the best and most original locations in your area (that would be suitable to your wedding size, style, and budget)?
ANSWER: Yes. Based on your style, size and budget, In Any Event will suggest a number of unique venues that would be suitable for your wedding in the written event proposal.
4. Is the consultant familiar with the best florists, photographers, caterers, bands, and DJs in your price range? Can he/she explain their strong points to you briefly? (Ask yourself: Does the consultant seem both knowledgeable and passionate?)
ANSWER: Yes. Since 1996, we have been producing events using the best resources in the New York area. We have relationships with florists, photographers, caterers, bands and DJs in various price ranges to accommodate every budget. After all, our reputation (as well as your special day) depends on combining all the right elements to create your perfect wedding.
5. Can the consultant score you some discounts with any vendors? (Consultants bring volume to favored vendors; often they'll reciprocate by slashing prices or throwing in extras.)
ANSWER: Yes. In Any Event will negotiate better fees with vendors on your behalf and can actually save you money while maintaining quality and style.
6. Will the consultant read over the vendor contracts for you? What are some common traps to look out for?
ANSWER: Yes. Because we have relationships with the vendors we recommend, most of the contracts have already been approved by In Any Event. But we still read them each and every time; to be sure there are no hidden fees or unusual indemnification clauses. For instance, there are common traps in location contracts; Are valets, bathroom attendants and coat check included? Is there a curfew and what is the overtime fee if the party runs late? For a loft space, is clean up included in the rental price? Are tables, chairs, linens and china additional?
7. Can the consultant create a timeline that tells everyone involved in the planning processvendors, members of the wedding party, bride/groom, and familieswhat to do and when to do it? How will she/he make sure that everyone sticks to the schedule?
ANSWER: Yes. Each member of the wedding party will receive an outline of responsibilities. As the wedding approaches, a schedule of the day/weekend will be sent either by hard copy or email, as you prefer. A rehearsal dinner is highly recommended to help everyone get comfortable with their role in the ceremony and reception. Every vendor also has the event schedule which is then confirmed by phone the week of the wedding. As the event producer, In Any Event will guide and keep everyone on schedule with the help of the officiant, caterer and the band leader. We also know when to bend the rules, change the pace and go with the flow.
8. Will the consultant handle the invitations, from wording and ordering to the addressing and mailing?
ANSWER: Yes. In Any Event creates unique, one of a kind invitations and can facilitate the addressing and mailing.
9. Can the consultant counsel you on etiquette matters and alert you to hot trends on the wedding horizon?
ANSWER: Yes. We can council on etiquette and alert you to hot trends, however our forte is innovation and trend setting, not following. Our philosophy is that one size does not fit all and the traditional rules dont apply to every wedding. If youre looking for a unique solution to traditional etiquette questions, we have the answers.
10. Will the consultant coordinate delivery, arrival, and setup times with photographer, florist, musicians, caterer/banquet manager, et al?
ANSWER: Yes. Scheduling of professional services and final confirmations are part of our responsibilities and we take them very seriously.
11. For the day of the wedding, will the consultant be willing to oversee the entire event by supervising vendors, troubleshooting emergencies, and soothing nerves? Can she/he share any anecdotes that required performing above and beyond the call of duty?
ANSWER: Yes. In Any Event will be on hand every step of the way to supervise, troubleshoot and offer peace of mind. In one instance, the power outlet for the band was not working properly. After a quick run to the nearest hardware store, extension cords, power outlets and gaffer tape saved the day.
12. Will the consultant be willing to step in as your advocate, conveying your visions and desires to vendors when you don't feel up to the task?
ANSWER: Yes. As your event producer, In Any Event is your crusader, supporter, defender and champion.
13. Will the consultant help plan and book your honeymoon?
ANSWER: Yes. We can make recommendations, research honeymoon options and book trips for our clients, however, our specialty lies in event planning. We can recommend a number of talented travel agents.
Knot Note: Remember that the consultant should have plenty of questions for you too, in an effort to determine your wishes, needs, level of maintenance, budget, scope of imagination, and more. You're both trying to assess each other and how well you'll work together. The consultant will probably initiate discussionstake this time to consider manner, personality, confidence, warmth, whatever you're looking for. Whomever you enlist, do not hire a consultant who doesn't want to listen, is bossy, tries to convince you of what's best for you, critiques your ideas, has no references, and won't sign a written agreement. |
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