10 Ways a Wedding Consultant Can Help

1. Listening to your ideas, then suggesting what works for your style and budget.


2. Helping out with just one or two specific tasks, if that's all you need-such as scouting reception sites, tracking invitations, or finding a minister.


3. Recommending vendors (florists, bakers, caterers) who will serve your needs best.


4. Acting as the contact person between you and all vendors, from the contract signing to the I do's.


5. Getting great deals from vendors with whom she regularly works. Her relationships may mean price breaks.


6. Overseeing your wedding day. She'll manage the timeline, make sure every detail is in place (the tent is up, the favors are distributed), and handle emergencies (the limo is MIA!) so you can relax.


7. Carrying an emergency kit with safety pins, aspirin, and water.


8. Mediating if things get tense between you and your mom or a vendor.


9. Helping you get your legal docs (birth certificate, marriage license) in order.


10. Arranging a ride to take you to your wedding-night hotel or the airport.