Why do I need a wedding consultant?

We're on a tight budget - how can I justify the cost of a wedding consultant?

My church or reception location already has an on-site coordinator. Why would I need another one?

I'm really enjoying the planning process and I'm concerned that a wedding consultant will take over and do everything for me. Will that happen?

I have a lot of experience planning parties. Why should this be any different?

I noticed you have the title Master Bridal Consultant TM and are a member of the Association of Bridal Consultants. What does that mean?

Q: We're on a tight budget - how can I justify the cost of a wedding consultant?
A: A consultant will help you stay within your budget and find the best values for your money. Some vendors offer commissions to bridal consultants which Master Plans will pass on to you in the form of discounts. Your consultant is also a valuable information resource which means you can put all that money you would have spent on wedding books and planning guides towards a fabulous honeymoon.
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Q: My church or reception location already has an on-site coordinator. Why would I need another one?
A: When there is an on-site coordinator your wedding consultant becomes your personal assistant, and does not infringe on the work of the site coordinator. Church coordinators are very good at lining up the bridal party for the processional and the reception site coordinator will make sure the food is served promptly. But these people are often so busy overseeing the site logistics that they aren't able to take care of the little things or anticipate emergency situations. Who will make sure all of the groomsmen have their boutonnieres before pictures? Who will know where to call if the limo is late? What will you do if the zipper rips out of your dress? Who will notice that you wanted organza ribbons on the pews, not silk? On-site coordinators are often not prepared or willing to take care of these kinds of problems. Your professional wedding consultant is experienced in seeing the big picture and smoothly bringing together all of the components.
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Q: I'm really enjoying the planning process and I'm concerned that a wedding consultant will take over and do everything for me. Will that happen?
A: Hiring a wedding coordinator means you can enjoy all the fun of the decision making without having to worry about how to make it all work. Your consultant will give you as much or as little help as you need, but will always follow your wishes. Your coordinator can provide you with timelines and to do lists which allow you to do the work with the peace of mind that you will not be forgetting anything. Master Plans will help you bring your ideas and dreams to life.
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Q: I have a lot of experience planning parties. Why should this be any different?
A. Although much of the preparation technique is the same, a wedding has different etiquette and procedure requirements. Do you know the correct wording for invitations or which florists will do a sample bouquet at no additional charge? On the day of the wedding you shouldn't have to worry about such things as placement of the escort cards or whether the fresh flowers arrived for the cake. Let a Professional Bridal Consultant supplement your own party experience with knowledge specific to the wedding industry.
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Q: I noticed you have the title Master Bridal Consultant TM and are a member of the Association of Bridal Consultants. What does that mean?
A. Betsy Wilbur, owner and principal coordinator at Master Plans, was awarded the title "Master Bridal Consultant" in 2005. This designation is the highest level that can be achieved. It is awarded to ABC members who successfully complete an educational course and then over the next six years complete proficiency exams, participate in seminars, provide references, and contribute to advancing the professionalism of the wedding business. In addition, Master Bridal Consultants are required to give a detailed presentation on a recent wedding before a panel of judges, and show evidence of sustained excellence in the field. There are currently only 42 Master Bridal Consultants in the world.

All Association of Bridal Consultants members agree to uphold a code of Ethics and Standards of Membership as follows:

-Represent each client fairly and honestly, providing all agreed-to services in a timely and cost-efficient manner

-Establish reasonable and proper fees for services and provide written estimates to each client

-Use honest, factual advertising

-Deal with employees and clients fairly, in an unbiased manner

-Operate an establishment that is a credit to the community