As a new wedding planner, I’m sure you’re eager to attract brides and keep them happy when they’re your client. But it’s possible that some of the things that you think are helping you get and keep clients are actually hurting you. If you’re making any of the 5 mistakes below, it’s time to make some changes so you can attract more of the types of brides you want and become financially successful.
Mistake #1 – You’re not charging enough
If you’re like most new wedding planners, you’re charging low rates in an effort to attract lots of brides. Unfortunately, your low rates are probably only attracting brides who don’t place a high value on your services and want cheap prices. When you charge what your services are really worth, you’ll attract high-quality brides who value what you have to offer.
Mistake #2 – You’re letting brides decide how much you charge
If a bride pushes back when you quote your rates and gets you to offer a discount, you’re letting her choose how much you charge. Discounts can make it look like your services aren’t worth the price you’re charging. Instead, determine your rates and if she wants to negotiate, offer to include an additional small service for the same price, don’t automatically offer a discount.
Mistake #3 – You’re shy about asking brides to sign contracts
You and your brides need to be clear on the services you are providing and how much you will be paid for those services. This way there won’t be any disappointments or worse, disputes, during and after the wedding planning process. Work with an attorney to create a contract that you can use with your clients.
Mistake #4 – You’re available 24/7 for your brides
Of course, you want to be available for emergencies, especially right before the wedding day and on the wedding day itself. But, if you find yourself texting and talking to brides all hours of the day and night to discuss non-urgent requests or because they just want to chat, you haven’t set boundaries. You need some downtime to recharge, so unless you want to work around the clock and you’re being paid for 24/7 service, make it clear when you are and aren’t available.
Mistake #5 – You’re afraid to ask for payment
Whether you’re working for a family member, friend or a bride you just met, you need to make your payment schedule clear and not be afraid to ask for payment. At the very least, you need to be paid half when you start planning and the remaining fees before the wedding day. Some wedding planners request all of their money upfront. Write your payment schedule into your contract so there won’t be confusion about when money is due.
And if you have a pressing question about starting or running your wedding planning business, you can send me an email at [email protected]. I’ll answer them on this blog or in my ezine, “Wedding Planner Tips,” which you can subscribe to here.
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