Some of the wedding planners whom I mentor are not new to weddings. For example, they have already been a consultant in a bridal shop, or a they are caterers. They decided to change what they were doing and be a planner, or add wedding planning to their services. However, one thing seems to stand out with all of them, they don’t place high value on what they know and can do for a bride and groom. Therefore, they are often offering a lot of free services or giving deep discounts.
Yes, you need to plan some weddings for free or a nominal fee until you get the experience you need. But once you have developed your skills, you need to start charging fees that allow you make a profit and stay in business.
Make a list of the knowledge, expertise, and experience you offer brides. I find many planners don’t realize how much they really have to offer because they are on “automatic.” Planning weddings can be so second nature that you won’t realize all you know and can do until you write your list.
Now, take a look at your list. Do you still believe you should be offering those time-consuming services for free? Remember that doing free services takes your time away from doing paid services.
What about those deep discounts that you offer at bridal shows, might you be selling yourself short?
I know you love planning weddings and want to help all the brides you can, but you deserve to make a profit for doing what you love.
If the brides you have been attracting cannot afford to hire you unless you give away free services and deep discounts, it’s time to change to your niche and your marketing message.
You want brides who value high-quality wedding planners not brides who select based on price.
