Frequently Asked Questions
 
Click a link below that corresponds with the question you are interested in learning more about, or simple scroll down to view all of our frequently asked questions.

What is a bridal consultant?
What will a bridal consultant do for me?
How can I tell if a consultant is reputable?
Do bridal consultants get “kickbacks” from suppliers?
Don’t consultants want to run the whole show?
Can I afford a bridal consultant?
Why can’t I do the planning myself?
Do I need a bridal consultant?



What is a bridal consultant?

A bridal/wedding consultant/coordinator is a professional whose is trained and experienced in planning weddings. Their expertise and contacts with other wedding professionals will help make your wedding as close to perfect as is possible.

A professional bridal consultant will follow this code of ethics:

• 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.
• Disclose to clients any payments received from suppliers.

A professional consultant can help you in many roles.

Adviser: consultants know weddings, from the socially correct invitation formats to the proper planning and organization of the reception.

Coordinator: With their extensive contacts in the wedding industry, a consultant can match you with the right professionals, from photographer to caterer, to turn your wedding dreams into reality.

Supervisor: A consultant will work with the professionals you have chosen to make sure everything happens the way you want it.

Financial planner: A consultant can help you organize your dream wedding to fit within your budget, by suggesting ways to stretch your funds.

Mediator: A bridal consultant, as an independent third party, often can smooth ruffled feathers and mediate disagreements. Sometimes being nothing more that a “shoulder to cry on” to support you during the hectic days before your wedding.



What will a bridal consultant do for me?

In addition to helping make your wedding dreams come true within your budget, and hopefully saving you from costly mistakes, a consultant will save you time. A professional consultant can handle all the details while you have the freedom to enjoy your engagement.



How can I tell if a consultant is reputable?

All Association of Bridal Consultant’s members agree to uphold the Code of Ethics listed above. The title of Professional Bridal Consultant™ is awarded to Association members who have completed the Professional Development Program.



Do bridal consultants get “kickbacks” from suppliers?

Some vendors do offer commissions to consultants. Many consultants pass these commissions on 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.



Don’t consultants want to run the whole show?

A professional bridal consultant will work with you, doing as much or as little as you want. They are there to help you and your family, making your day perfect. Our slogan is “Your ideas, our leg work”.



Can I afford a bridal consultant?

A consultant is part of the wedding budget. Many times, you will save money by using a consultant. A consultant will work with you to create your dream wedding within your budget. They will make suggestions that are less expensive and enhance your wedding.



Why can’t I do the planning myself?

Planning your wedding can be fun but it can also be very stressful. You need to check out several different vendors for each aspect of your wedding. This alone can be quite time consuming. A consultant can make your part in the planning process a lot easier.



Do I need a bridal consultant?

A consultant will be a valuable asset to you during the planning of your wedding. You’ll be able to relax and enjoy your engagement. A consultant will take care of every detail, big and small, to make your wedding day perfect.

This information is courtesy of the Assoc. of Bridal Consultants.