What Does a Wedding Planner Actually Do?

Hello, wonderful couples, my name is Tabria Etuk. I’m the calm, collected voice behind Truly Trusted Events, dedicated to crafting unforgettable weddings that are as unique and vibrant as you are. Reflecting on my own wedding experience, I can assure you that being overwhelmed is not something you need to feel. With over five years in wedding planning and a decade in nonprofit and production, I am here to offer the expertise and heart I once wished for.  

Planning a wedding can often feel like a part-time job, but with the right assistance, it can be transformed into a joyous and memorable journey. This is where a wedding planner steps in, becoming both a trusted guide and a planning best friend. A wedding planner is much more than just a coordinator; they are an advocate and collaborator who helps couples bring their unique wedding vision to life.

Before the Big Day

Before the whirlwind of the wedding day itself, a wedding planner steps into organizing mode, laying the groundwork for a seamless celebration. Some of the key responsibilities include:

Clarifying Your Vision for Your Special Day: From our first meeting, I work with you to define what makes your wedding one of a kind. Whether it's blending traditional customs or incorporating modern flair, we’ll weave an event that is truly yours.

Venue and Vendor Recommendations to Curate the Perfect Team: With an extensive knowledge of the local market, I can recommend venues and local vendors that fit within budget constraints, while also echoing the couple’s personal style. Having a solid team is essential. I recommend vendors aligned with your values and vision, ensuring you vibe not just with your venue but with every detail, from florals to photographers.

Timeline Creation to Keep You on Track: Crafting a realistic and comprehensive timeline is essential. Wedding planners create a timeline that reflect couples’ interests and priorities as the countdown to the wedding day progresses. Together, we’ll build a flow that lets you savor every moment of your day.

Primary Contact for Your Vendors: I serve as the bridge between the couple and various vendors. My negotiation skills and attention to detail ensure every contractual obligation and expectation is met.

Budget Tracking: Keeping track of payment deadlines and ensuring budgets are respected is a crucial component of my role. I also can address issues or challenges for you, to ensure that you don’t stress out before the big day. 

Setting Up Your Rehearsal: I’ll be there to help you do a run-through so you are ready for the big day. 

During the Celebration

On the day of the wedding, a planner’s role is akin to that of a meticulous conductor orchestrating a symphony. I oversee the execution of all aspects as planned, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. 

Keeping Calm Amidst the Chaos: On the day of your wedding, I’ll be there to manage logistics, tackle unexpected hurdles, and ensure everything feels effortless and intentional. From the ceremony to reception, meal service to toasts, first dances to final songs, we stick to the timeline we set and flex where needed. 

Personal Care Reminders: Ever hear those stories about the bride or groom who forgets to eat or drink before the ceremony? That won’t happen under my watch. I make sure that you have everything you need, including food and water, throughout the day. 

Venue Setup: I ensure your seating plans, table arrangements, signage, and decorations are all ready to go. I’ll be there from start to finish to set everything up for your special day. 

Guest Assistance: Your guests have questions? Need help finding their seats? Have special requests? Send them my way, you shouldn’t need to worry about managing the flow of the day, that’s what I’m there for. 

Problem Solving when Challenges Arise: Weather changes its mind and you need to move an outdoor wedding indoors? Missing items? Vendors delayed? Timeline changes? I’ve got you covered. 

After the Wedding

Even after the wedding vows are exchanged and the celebrations wind down, the responsibilities of a planner continue.

Final Vendor Payments: Many vendors accept their final payments on the day of the wedding, I’ll make sure they reach them so you can focus on your celebration. 

Tear Down and Clean Up: I handle everything from ensuring rentals are returned to collecting personal items, which allows the couple to focus solely on their new beginning.

With years of experience in wedding planning and the hospitality industry, planners at Truly Trusted Events are well-versed in navigating the complexities of wedding management. I bring heart, clarity, and experience to guide couples through every stage. Equipped with inclusive and culturally competent services, I’m committed to creating unforgettable wedding experiences that truly encapsulate the essence of each individual couple.

Whether it’s full-service planning, partial planning, or day-of coordination, engaging a wedding planner is a key investment that not only saves time and stress but also ensures a day filled with laughter, intention, and style.

Why Choose Truly Trusted Events?

The core of Truly Trusted Events lies in crafting experiences that center joy, culture, and love, devoid of unnecessary stress. With a deep respect for identity and chosen family, your wedding day should be an unapologetic reflection of who you are together.

Every couple I work with is more than clients; they become part of a journey where their wedding is the glorious culmination of dreams brought to life. Together, we’ll not only co-create unforgettable memories but do so in a way that lets you actually be present in every moment.

When you’re ready to plan your dream day with a partner who cherishes what makes you uniquely you, I’ll be here, with heart, clipboard, and a calm demeanor, ready to accompany you all the way to your grand exit.

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