Hiring a wedding planner can be one of the best decisions you make during your planning journey — but choosing the right one is key. The right planner will guide you, support your vision and make the process feel effortless. The wrong one? Not so much.
At Abbington Distinctive Banquets in Glen Ellyn, we work alongside incredible planners every day — and we also offer support through our experienced in-house event team. Whether you’re hiring a full-service planner or just looking for guidance, here are the top questions to ask — and a few red flags to avoid.
Top 10 questions to ask a wedding planner
1. How many weddings do you take on at once?
You want to make sure your planner has the time and bandwidth to give your wedding the attention it deserves.
2. What services are included in your packages?
Some planners offer full-service planning, while others focus on day-of coordination. Make sure you understand exactly what’s included.
3. Have you worked at our venue before?
Experience at your venue — like Abbington — can be a huge advantage. Familiarity with the space, layout and timing makes everything smoother.
4. Do you have preferred vendors you work with?
Many planners collaborate with trusted professionals. You can also explore Abbington’s preferred vendors to find experienced partners who already know the venue.
5. How do you handle budgeting?
A great planner helps you stay on track financially, guiding you on where to invest and where to save.
6. What does your communication style look like?
Will you be emailing, texting or meeting regularly? Clear communication is essential for a stress-free experience.
7. How do you handle unexpected issues?
Things happen — weather changes, vendor delays, last-minute adjustments. A strong planner will have contingency plans in place.
8. Will you be there on the wedding day?
Some companies assign different coordinators. Make sure you know who will actually be managing your event.
9. Can you walk us through a typical wedding day timeline?
This helps you understand how organized and experienced they are — and how your day will flow.
10. Can we see reviews or speak with past clients?
Testimonials and referrals provide real insight into how a planner performs under pressure.
5 Red Flags to Watch For
Just as important as knowing what to ask is knowing what to avoid. Here are five warning signs to keep in mind:
- 1. Slow or inconsistent communication: If they’re hard to reach now, it won’t improve later.
- 2. Lack of clear pricing: Vague or confusing packages can lead to unexpected costs.
- 3. No backup plan: Every professional planner should have contingency strategies.
- 4. Limited experience or portfolio: You want someone with proven success, not guesswork.
- 5. They don’t listen to your vision: Your wedding should reflect you — not the planner’s personal style.
Why the right planning team matters
Your wedding planner is more than just an organizer — they’re your partner in bringing your vision to life. From coordinating vendors to managing timelines, the right planner makes the entire process smoother and more enjoyable.
At Abbington, couples benefit from working with a venue that already provides expert support. Our in-house team works closely with planners and vendors to ensure every detail is executed flawlessly.
Plan with confidence at Abbington
Whether you’re hiring a planner or leaning on experienced venue support, having the right team in place makes all the difference. If you’re looking for wedding venues in the Chicago area, banquet halls in Glen Ellyn or private event venues in the West Chicago suburbs, Abbington Distinctive Banquets offers the expertise and elegance to make your day unforgettable.
Explore our wedding packages or schedule a tour to start planning your wedding with confidence.
