Frequently Asked Questions

What is a bridal consultant?
A bridal (wedding) consultant is a professional whose training, expertise and contacts will help make your wedding as close to perfect as it possibly can be - and let you relax (as much as you can) and enjoy your wedding.

You can count on a professional consultant to help you in many roles.

ADVISER
As an expert, the consultant knows weddings, from the socially correct invitation formats through the proper planning and organization of the reception.

COORDINATOR
Through extensive contacts in the wedding business, the consultant can match you with the right professionals, from photographer to caterer, to turn your wedding dreams into reality.

SUPERVISOR
Why should you worry about the details of planning your wedding? Your consultant will work with the other professionals you have chosen to make sure everything happens just as you want it.

FINANCIAL PLANNER
If you're working with a budget (and who isn't?), your consultant can help you organize your dream wedding within your budget, by suggesting ways to make your dollar go the farthest.

MEDIATOR
Caught between "ex"-families and "step"-families? A bridal professional, as an independent third party, often can smooth ruffled feathers and mediate disagreements. Sometimes your consultant may be nothing more than a "shoulder to cry on" to support you during the hectic days before your wedding.

This is your once-in-a-lifetime day! Let a professional bridal consultant handle the details with you. Make certain it turns out perfectly - and enjoy your wedding!

What will a bridal consultant do for me?
In addition to helping make your wedding dreams come true within your budget - and perhaps saving you from costly mistakes - a consultant will save you time. With today's hectic lifestyle, many bridal couples and their families do not have the time for the detailed planning and work a beautiful wedding requires.

How can I tell if a consultant is reputable?
All Association of Bridal Consultant's members agree to uphold a Code of Ethics and Standards of Membership. Look for the Association's logo and ask to see a current membership certificate; contact the Association to verify a bridal consultant's status. Be sure to ask the consultant during the interview what kind of education and experience they have. The designation of Professional Bridal Consultant™ is awarded to Association members who have completed the Professional Development Program. Some members also participate in Association-sponsored seminars and workshops; certificates indicating that they have completed this training also may be displayed.

Do wedding consultants get "kickbacks" from suppliers?
Some vendors do offer commissions to consultants, much as airlines pay commissions to travel agents. Many consultants pass these commissions to you in the form of discounts. The Association strongly recommends against commissions. But, in all cases, you should know how the consultant is being paid--and by whom.

Won't a consultant want to run the whole show?
A professional wedding consultant will work with you, handling as much or as little of your wedding as you want. After all, it is your wedding. The consultant is there to help you and your family -- and make the day perfect.

Can I afford a wedding consultant?
A wedding consultant is part of your budget, not an extra expense. In fact, you often save money because a consultant suggests less expensive alternatives that still enhance your wedding. Consultants often can obtain discounts from suppliers. Above all, the professional bridal consultant will work with you to produce your dream wedding, including the consultant's fee, all within your budget.

Why can't I do the planning myself?
You certainly can do the planning yourself, and that sometimes is part of the fun of your wedding. But, it also can be a hassle, checking out many sources for each vendor, making sure all the details are in place and worrying about whether you're getting the best deal -- and whether everything will turn out all right. A bridal professional has the training and experience to make it all work, while you relax.

How can I tell if a bridal consultant is providing a quality vendor?
The consultant's reputation -- and future business -- depend on the quality of the services, including vendors, you receive. A bridal professional is committed to providing the best possible wedding for the lowest possible cost. A satisfied bride is the consultant's best advertisement. So, it is to their benefit to recommend the best vendor for your budget.

How can a bridal consultant help?
With so many brides and their parents working, a bridal consultant can handle much of the time-consuming, detailed planning for your wedding. You save time, reduce stress and concentrate on having fun as your wedding approaches. And, with experience dealing with many weddings, a consultant can smooth all of those complex relationships in a modern family.

Do I need a bridal consultant?
A consultant will be a distinct asset as you plan your wedding. Wouldn't it be nice to spend time with your fiancé and your families, rather than worrying about all the details of your special day? A consultant will take care of the details, leaving you to have fun. And, on your wedding day, you can shine as the star, while your consultant works behind the scene to make it all happen!

(Source: Association of Bridal Consultants)