b'focus on pre-wedding festivities. Here are some of the services most planners offer:t Provide ongoing consultation for all things wedding t Develop a customized budget plant Provide a schedule and month-to-month planning checklistt Assist with vendor selection, providing a list of suitable and reputable vendors as neededt Accompany bride to vendor meetings and review contractst Coordinate all vendors in advance and on the day of the weddingt Assist with selecting the design/style of the wedding and/or reception t Be a resource on wedding etiquette and traditionst Direct attendants, rehearsals, processionals, recessionals and receiving linest Coordinate wedding day decorating, vendor deliveries and services, ceremony and reception t Ensure all post-event tasks are taken care of after the couple Photo Courtesy of Austin Photo Studio leavesgifts secured, rentals returned, gratuities paid neutral person when clashes of opinion occur with relatives or bridal party members.How to Pick a Plannert There is no ofcial qualication to become a wedding planner. t Reputation is key. Other than personal references, planners can hold memberships in organizations that require a credible reputation to join, such as the Better Business Bureau or Angies List.t Experience is the most valuable credential for an event planner.t Planners must be extremely organized, coping with many stressful situations with a calm exterior.t Ultimately, its about rapport and trust. The most important question to answer is whether you can work cohesively and intimately with this individual on one of the most memorable events of your life.What Tasks a Planner TacklesApproaches and prices vary by wedding expert. Planners may charge a percentage of the total wedding budget, by the hour, or offer packages for different services. One of the most popular coordination packages is for the professional to take charge the last four to eight weeks before the wedding, allowing the bride to'