Featured image by Ann+Lee Photography
So, here's the deal with Discovery Calls.
A Discovery Call with a wedding planner serves as an opportunity for both you and the planner to get to know each other better and determine if you are a good match. It allows you to assess the planner’s expertise, experience, and compatibility with your wedding vision.
Here are some reasons why a Discovery Call is important:
Establishing a Connection
Planning a wedding involves working closely with your wedding planner, so it’s crucial to establish a good rapport and connection. The Discovery Call gives you a chance to gauge the planner’s personality, communication style, and professionalism. It helps you determine if you can develop a positive working relationship and feel comfortable sharing your ideas and concerns.
Photos by Ivory+Bliss
Assessing Their Expertise
During the Discovery Call, you can inquire about the planner’s experience, credentials, and past weddings. You can ask questions about their approach to wedding planning, their knowledge of the industry, and their familiarity with your chosen wedding style or theme. This information will help you evaluate their expertise and determine if they have the skills necessary to bring your vision to life.
Understanding Services & Packages
Wedding planners offer various services and packages, and the Discovery Call is an opportunity to discuss these options. You can inquire about the specific services they provide, such as vendor coordination, budget management, and event design. Understanding their offerings will help you assess if they align with your needs and expectations.
Photo by O&B Photo Co
Clarifying Expectations
The Discovery Call allows you to discuss your wedding vision and expectations with the planner. You can share your ideas, preferences, and any specific requirements you have in mind. This conversation helps ensure that the planner understands your vision and can deliver the desired results. It also provides an opportunity for the planner to share their input, ideas, and suggestions based on their expertise.
Budget & Logistics
During the Discovery Call, you can discuss your wedding budget and logistical considerations with the planner. This conversation helps you understand if the planner can work within your budget constraints and if they have experience handling similar weddings. Also, can they provide guidance on cost-saving strategies, recommend vendors within your budget range, and address any logistical challenges you may anticipate.
Overall, not having a Discovery Call with a wedding planner can lead to miscommunication, unmet expectations, and a lack of alignment in terms of vision, budget, and services. It’s an important step to ensure a successful and enjoyable wedding planning journey
Photos by O&B Photo Co
To make the most of your Discovery Call, here are some tips for how to prepare.
Research the Planner
Prepare Questions
Before the call, conduct research on the wedding planner. Visit their website, social media profiles, and read reviews or testimonials from past clients. Familiarize yourself with their work, style, and any additional information that may be available. This will help you ask targeted questions during the call.
Make a list of questions you want to ask the wedding planner. Consider topics such as their experience, previous weddings they have planned, their approach to design and coordination, their availability on your wedding date, and how they handle challenges that may arise during the planning process. Having specific questions prepared will ensure that you cover all important aspects.
Share Your Vision
Have a Budget Range
Be prepared to discuss your wedding vision, theme, preferred aesthetics, and any specific details you have in mind. The more information you provide during the Discovery Call, the better the planner will understand your expectations and can they offer tailored advice and suggestions.
Determine your budget range before the call. While you may not have exact figures, having a general idea will help the planner understand your financial considerations and offer suitable recommendations.
Take Notes
Conclusion
During the call, take notes on important points, ideas, and suggestions provided by the planner. These notes will be helpful when comparing different planners and making a final decision.
Remember, the Discovery Call is a mutual assessment process. Use it to gather information, ask questions, and ensure that the wedding planner aligns with your needs and vision. A successful Discovery Call will help set the foundation for a productive and enjoyable wedding planning journey.
Photos by Savannah Steiger Photography