What to look for in a wedding planner's portfolio

What should you actually look for in the portfolio?

Start with the obvious: photos of previous weddings. But don't stop there. You're looking for evidence that this planner has handled weddings similar to what you're planning.

"Couples should be looking at planners' Instagrams or websites to see previous work, to make sure that they're picking a planner that suits them," explains Events With Rio, wedding planner. "Their portfolio of weddings, their style, their energy and their personality need to match you."

Bellissimo Weddings recommends digging into testimonials from multiple sources. "Look at testimonials on the planner's website, but also on Google reviews, because these will be genuine reviews from genuine couples," they advise.

Beyond aesthetics, consider asking practical questions: How long have they been in business? How many weddings have they planned? What types of weddings have they worked on? "You can always ask a planner for personal contact from a previous client," Bellissimo adds. "A reputable planner that has a good bank of existing clients really won't mind that approach."

Why does personality fit matter so much?

A wedding planner isn't like hiring a supplier for one day. You'll work closely together for months. If your communication styles clash, that's a long time to feel frustrated.

"Connecting and getting on with your wedding planner is crucial because you'll be spending the next 9, 12, 15 months working with them," explains Events With Rio. "You've got to make sure that their energy and personality match you."

Bellissimo Weddings breaks down the different planner personalities you might encounter. "Not all planners are the same. Some are very strong on the creative side and some on the logistics and operational side. Some couples really strive to have a planner that's very much a leader giving direction. Others prefer a softer approach, collaborating more with the couple."

The recommendation is clear: "Have a face-to-face meeting if possible, or a video call, and really get a feel for the planner," Bellissimo advises. This is non-negotiable before booking.

Will you work with the same planner throughout?

This is worth asking directly. Some larger planning companies may assign different team members at different stages.

"We very much try for couples to have a continuing relationship with the planner they're dealing with all the way through," explains Bellissimo Weddings. "It builds a really nice rapport and gives continuity. Whoever from Bellissimo speaks to the couple initially, the couple will book that planner."

Events With Rio confirms this is standard practice: "Most commonly, the wedding planner will be the same person who coordinates the day itself. Most planners wouldn't take a booking unless they are available on the day."

However, they add a caveat: "Unless it is made clear upon booking that they might have another booking that day and they'd be sending an assistant or their number two." Ask this question upfront to avoid surprises.

How do good planners choose their recommended suppliers?

One of the biggest benefits of hiring a wedding planner is access to their supplier network. But not all networks are equal. Understanding how they vet suppliers tells you a lot about how they'll look after you.

Bellissimo Weddings explains their approach: "We spend quite a lot of time making sure we know and trust and work alongside suppliers so that we understand how they work. We're checking their reviews in various places, speaking to them, checking their insurance and doing due diligence."

Experience matters here. "An experienced wedding planner would have a vast bank of suppliers they regularly work with. A new planner would probably struggle to give personal recommendations because they'd be doing research from scratch," Bellissimo notes.

They also address a common concern about commission. "We don't get paid by suppliers to recommend them. We recommend suppliers because they do a really good job and they're going to look after our clients." This transparency is worth asking about directly.

What's the biggest misconception about working with planners?

Understanding what planners actually do helps you evaluate whether their experience matches your needs.

"The biggest misconception couples have is they probably underestimate just how long planning is going to take," says Bellissimo Weddings. "It is in itself a full-time job. That's why we have wedding planners."

Events With Rio highlights another common misunderstanding: "One of the biggest misconceptions is that the venue does most of the work. Venues are amazing, but coordination largely sits with the couple or the wedding planner." This includes building timelines, managing suppliers, tracking budgets, and ensuring the guest experience works.

Emma Murray Jones, another wedding planner, offers different advice: "All couples should ignore all trends. The most important thing is to plan a wedding day that reflects you." A good planner will help you find your own style rather than pushing what's fashionable.

Questions to Ask Before Booking