Wedding Planner In Singapore: Steps To Success

Planning a wedding is no easy feat, and it's no wonder that many couples in Singapore opt to hire a wedding planner to help them create their dream wedding. From identifying the needs of the couple to preparing the budget and designing the event, a wedding planner can transform a couple's vision into reality.

If you're interested in becoming a wedding planner in Singapore, it's important to understand the role and responsibilities involved. Wedding planners need to be organised, creative, and have strong attention to detail. They should also be able to communicate effectively with their clients and vendors to bring the couple's vision to life.

To stand out in the industry, it's crucial to build a strong network of vendors and stay updated with the latest wedding trends. Additionally, gaining experience through internships or assistant positions under established wedding planners can provide valuable knowledge and skills.

With dedication, a keen eye for design, and a passion for creating memorable weddings, you can embark on a rewarding career as a wedding planner in Singapore.

Choosing a wedding planner

Experience and Expertise

It is essential to choose a wedding planner with extensive industry experience and a proven track record of successful events. Check their portfolio, reviews, and testimonials to gauge their expertise and the quality of their services. While newer planners may offer competitive rates, experienced planners bring invaluable knowledge and connections to ensure a smooth and memorable wedding.

Style and Vision

Every wedding planner has a unique style and approach to designing weddings. Some planners specialise in rustic chic, while others excel at glitz and sparkle. Ensure that the planner's style aligns with your vision for your dream wedding. A good planner will listen to your ideas and offer suggestions that match your budget and preferences.

Exclusive or Multiple Bookings

Inquire whether the planner takes exclusive bookings or handles multiple events on the same day. Smaller companies may struggle to manage multiple events simultaneously, potentially affecting the quality of their services. Opt for a company with sufficient coordinators to handle multiple events without compromising their dedication to your special day.

Reviews and Testimonials

Checking reviews and testimonials is an excellent way to assess the quality of a wedding planner's services. While it is normal to find some negative reviews, a high number of poor reviews is a red flag. Prioritise planners with overwhelmingly positive feedback, indicating consistent satisfaction among their clients.

Services Offered

Wedding planners offer various services, from full-service packages to customisable options. Consider your needs and budget when selecting a planner. If you require assistance with every aspect of the wedding, a full-service planner is ideal. However, if you only need help with specific elements, such as styling or coordination, opt for a planner offering tailored services.

Communication and Rapport

Effective communication and rapport with your wedding planner are essential. Ensure they are responsive, attentive to your needs, and easy to reach. It is also beneficial to choose a planner with strong industry connections, as this can streamline the process of selecting vendors and venues.

Budget and Flexibility

Discuss your budget openly with potential wedding planners to understand their pricing and flexibility. Some planners offer customisable packages, while others provide all-inclusive services. Be wary of hidden costs, and ensure you are comfortable with the payment structure before finalising your decision.

Location and Availability

Consider the wedding planner's location and availability. If you are planning a destination wedding, ensure the planner has experience with such events and is willing to travel. Additionally, inquire about their booking process and whether they take on multiple events per day to gauge their availability and dedication to your event.

Problem-Solving Skills

Weddings often involve unexpected challenges and last-minute changes. Choose a wedding planner with excellent problem-solving skills who can adapt to unforeseen circumstances. Read through their reviews and testimonials to understand how they have handled challenges in the past.

Attention to Detail

A meticulous wedding planner who pays attention to the smallest details can make all the difference. They should be organised, efficient, and capable of handling the numerous aspects of wedding planning, from vendor management to day-of coordination.

Personal Connection

Finally, it is essential to feel a personal connection with your wedding planner. They should understand your vision, respect your budget, and share your enthusiasm for creating a memorable event. A good planner will go above and beyond to ensure your special day is everything you dreamed of and more.

Remember to trust your instincts when choosing a wedding planner. Select someone who makes you feel at ease and confident in their abilities. By considering the above factors, you will be well on your way to finding the perfect wedding planner for your big day.

Budgeting for the wedding

Budgeting for a wedding is one of the most important tasks for a wedding planner. It can be a daunting task, especially given that weddings are expensive. The average cost of a wedding is $35,000, excluding the engagement ring.

• Determine who will be contributing financially to the wedding. In the past, it was traditional for the bride's parents to cover the entire bill. Nowadays, both families often chip in, and the couple may also contribute. It's important to have honest conversations about what each party can afford and how much they are willing to spend.
• Set a budget before you start shopping for vendors. It's easy to fall in love with a venue, dress, or cake that is outside your budget. By setting a budget first, you can explore options that fit within your price range.
• Categorise your budget by percentage. While there are no hard and fast rules, here is a suggested breakdown:
• Venue and catering: 40%
• Photography and/or videography: 12%
• Music and entertainment: 10%
• Flowers and decor: 10%
• Wedding attire and beauty: 9%
• Ceremony: 3%
• Stationery: 2%
• Favours and gifts: 2%
• Transportation: 2%
• Wedding rings: 2%
• Emergency/miscellaneous fund: 5%
• Be aware of hidden costs. These can include beauty treatments, bachelor/bachelorette parties, vendor meals, and overtime costs. For destination weddings, there may also be travel costs for planning trips. Taxes and tips can also add up, with gratuities expected for everyone from musicians to hairstylists.
• Ask for cost proposals from vendors. This will give you a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with their services.
• Stay organised and track your expenses. Create a spreadsheet to keep track of your estimated and actual costs. This will help you stay within your budget.
• Don't be afraid to negotiate with vendors. Many vendors are willing to customise their packages to suit your budget. Be upfront about your budget and see if they can tailor their services to meet your needs.

Selecting a venue

Budget

Before beginning the search for a venue, it's essential to determine the overall wedding budget and allocate a suitable amount for the venue. Some venues may include essential services in their pricing, while others charge extra for additional services. By prioritizing the budget, wedding planners can find a venue that fits within the couple's financial plan without compromising their vision.

Timing

To secure the couple's desired wedding date, it's best to start the venue search early, ideally a year to nine months in advance. This increases the chances of finding a venue that meets their needs and is available on their preferred date. Flexibility with the date can also help, as starting the search in advance offers a wider range of options by aligning it with venue availability.

Theme and Cohesion

Ensuring that the venue aligns with the chosen theme is vital. For example, a rustic theme may not suit a luxury hotel. Wedding planners should consider the overall cohesion of the wedding elements, including decorations and menu selections, to create a harmonious aesthetic and ambiance.

Capacity

It's important to select a venue that comfortably accommodates the expected number of guests. Avoid choosing a venue that is too large for a smaller guest list, as it may feel empty, and likewise, avoid overcrowding by not exceeding the venue's maximum capacity. Having an early estimate of the guest count helps with table arrangements and optimizing the available space.

Weather and Backup Plan

For outdoor weddings, it's crucial to inquire about backup options in case of unfavourable weather conditions. Wedding planners should ensure that the venue has suitable indoor spaces or alternative plans to ensure a seamless celebration, regardless of the weather.

Location and Surroundings

The venue's location and surroundings play a significant role in the overall experience. Consider the proximity to the airport, nearby accommodations (or if the venue offers accommodation), and the safety of the area and the drive to the venue. Additionally, it's essential to ensure that the venue provides sufficient privacy for the couple and their guests.

Catering, Vendors, and Logistics

Discuss essential logistical aspects with the venue, such as catering options, parking availability, event coordination, and the provision of tables, chairs, and linens. Inquire about the duration of the rental, setup and teardown times, curfew or noise restraints, and any restrictions or rules imposed by the venue. Also, clarify whether the venue allows external vendors or has a preferred list of suppliers for services like floral arrangements, catering, and entertainment.

Accessibility

It is important to consider the accessibility of the venue, including entrances/exits, elevators, bathrooms, parking, and seating options. This ensures that all guests, including elderly relatives, can comfortably access and enjoy the wedding.

Customer Reviews

Researching customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the venue's quality and any potential issues. Consider both positive and negative comments on third-party sites like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google Reviews to make an informed decision.

Instinct and Communication

Ultimately, it's essential to trust your instincts and select a venue that feels right and aligns with the couple's vision. Wedding planners should also gauge their interaction with the venue coordinator, ensuring comfortable and effective communication throughout the planning process.

By considering these factors, wedding planners in Singapore can help couples choose a venue that sets the perfect stage for their special day.

Planning the photoshoot

Pre-Wedding Photoshoot

A pre-wedding photoshoot is a great opportunity for the couple to get comfortable in front of the camera and familiarise themselves with their photographer. This shoot can include a variety of poses and backdrops to capture the couple's personality and style. It's also a chance for the photographer to understand the couple's preferences and ensure they are comfortable and relaxed before the wedding day.

Wedding Day Photoshoot:

Pre-Ceremony:

• Shot of the wedding invitation, stationery, and any other special signs or gifts.
• Bride(s) and bridesmaids/man getting their hair and makeup done.
• Dress hanging with jewellery, shoes, and other accessories laid out.
• Bouquets, buttonholes/corsages, and any other floral arrangements.
• Close-up shots of dress details, jewellery, and shoes.
• Bride(s) putting on the dress/veil with help from mother/bridesmaids.
• Emotional moments: mother and bride portrait, father and bride portrait, and any other family members or close friends.
• Bridal party walking down the stairs/leaving the house, getting into the wedding car, or walking to the ceremony venue.
• Groom(s) and groomsmen getting ready, spending a moment alone, and/or having a drink together.

Ceremony:

• Shots of the empty venue/church, including the altar, flowers, and interior/exterior details.
• Groom and groomsmen waiting inside the venue/church.
• Guests arriving outside and inside the venue/church.
• Bride(s) arriving in the wedding car and stepping out.
• Bridal party entrance and walking down the aisle.
• Father/mother/relative giving the bride away.
• Exchanging of the rings and vows.
• The first kiss as a married couple and the moment after.
• Signing the register/marriage certificate.
• Recessional: couple walking back down the aisle and greeting guests outside the venue.

Post-Ceremony:

• Portraits of the couple alone, and with their bridesmaids/groomsmen, entire wedding party, and family members (including parents, siblings, and children).
• Couple with any pets included in the wedding party.
• Shots of guests eating, drinking, and chatting.
• Specific groups of friends or colleagues who are present.

Wedding Reception Photoshoot:

• The reception space set up before guests enter.
• Details and room decor shots, including table settings, place cards, favours, centrepieces, etc.
• Wedding cake detail shots.
• Entertainment: magicians, dancers, musicians, singers, wedding band, and DJ.
• Traditional moments: throwing the bouquet, taking off the garter, father-daughter dance, mother-son dance, etc.
• Couple mingling with guests, chatting, and dancing.
• The couple's exit and vehicle leaving the reception venue.

After-Party Photoshoot:

If there is an after-party, capture the energy and excitement with shots of:

• The couple's outfit changes.
• Any new décor setups.
• Unique games and activities.
• Candid moments of the couple and guests enjoying the celebration.

General Tips:

• Communicate with the couple to understand their must-have shots and any unique details they want to be included.
• Prepare a list of all participants and specific combinations for group portraits.
• Nominate a close friend or family member to help round up guests for group photos.
• Be flexible and adapt to the flow of the day; not all shots may be possible, and that's okay!
• Trust your photographer's expertise and allow them to capture candid moments as well as staged shots.

Remember, this is a general guide, and each wedding is unique, so feel free to customise and add your creative touches to the photoshoot!

Preparing the guest list

Start with a Realistic Budget

The number of guests will depend on the couple's budget, so it is essential to have a clear understanding of their financial constraints before finalising the guest list. A good rule of thumb is that reducing the number of guests will help cut costs.

Prioritize Close Loved Ones

It is essential to identify the VIPs, including close family and friends, who must be present at the wedding. This will ensure that the couple gets to celebrate with their nearest and dearest.

Be Mindful of Plus-Ones

Decide early on whether to offer plus-ones and, if so, whether to limit them to specific groups, such as the wedding party or engaged couples. This will help manage guest numbers and budget.

Consider Children

If the couple is planning a child-friendly event, be sure to account for children in the guest list. However, if they prefer an adults-only celebration, gently inform parents in advance.

Account for Package Deals

Remember to include the officiant's spouse, parents of children in the wedding party, and the spouses or live-in partners of invited guests.

Be Consistent with Invites

Create clear rules for inviting guests with partners. For example, you could set a minimum duration for relationships, such as inviting only partners who have been together for six months or more.

Manage Expectations

If the couple is contributing to the budget, be mindful that they may have expectations about their say in the guest list. Communicate openly and set boundaries if needed.

Don't Rush the Process

Creating the perfect guest list takes time, so don't rush it. The guest list impacts many other aspects of the wedding, so it's crucial to get it right.

Be Strategic with the B-List

If using a B-list, send invitations at least four months in advance to give yourself time to add B-list guests thoughtfully. Ensure you don't split up tight-knit groups, such as a group of coworkers.

Consider Travel Requirements

Think about any travel requirements or restrictions, such as visa rules or convenient flight options, that may impact guests' ability to attend, especially for a destination wedding.

Remember, the guest list is a critical aspect of wedding planning, and it's essential to strike a balance between the couple's wishes and budget constraints.

Frequently asked questions