At OneFabDay,  Sue and I (Naoise) don't claim to be experts, we know quite a bit, but are learning every day, so we thought it a good idea to ask wedding experts for specific advice and information on various different aspects of organising a wedding day.

Today we are very pleased to welcome Annie Byrne from Aislinn Events as our guest blogger. Annie is a destination wedding and event planner based in Dingle, Co. Kerry.  We asked her to give us the lowdown on what professional wedding planning is all about, and why you should consider hiring someone to help you with your wedding. Over to Annie...

Do you have a wedding ‘to do’ list? Good.

There is a lot on it, and a lot to do.

If you have a busy schedule, don’t know where to start, have family issues or don’t live in the location of your wedding, hiring a wedding planner will help. Wedding planners can plan all, or part of your wedding depending on your needs, the time available and your budget. More and more couples these days are turning to a wedding planner for help, and to ensure the day runs smoothly.

So What Should A Wedding Planner Do For You?

• Create an overall plan and timeline to stay organized throughout the planning process.
• Help you set a realistic budget, and keep you within that budget.
• Create your Dream Team, recommending and assisting in choosing vendors and suppliers that suit your needs, style and budget. Negotiating contracts with them and attending meetings. Confirm order, delivery and times.
• Pull the dream together with colour, style suggestions, resources, and extra touches with creative details.
• Give you continual advice on issues like etiquette and invitations, favours, bridesmaid and groomsmen’s gifts and welcome packs; Even general personal assistance.
• Manage RSVPs and guest needs - organize guest transportation, accommodation, itineraries, pre and post wedding parties.
• Professionally staff and manage all details on your wedding day to a timeline, so you and your bridal party can relax and enjoy the event.
• Distribute final vendor payments, organize family and wedding party and even provide an emergency kit.

But before you engage a wedding planner, you should begin with a conversation between yourselves, discuss your expectations and requirements. Have a look at that ‘to do’ list and beyond.

What do you need most? Maybe you just need help finding suitable venues and reliable suppliers.

Where do already feel overwhelmed? You just don’t know how much things cost and how much of your budget should go to what.

What if your mother insists on something totally different from you and your fiancé?

Once you know your trouble spots, make an appointment and have a consultation. Your wedding planner should listen to you and you should feel that she understands you and with that, fit into your budget.

A wedding planner isn’t just about finding a venue and a florist, it is about understanding your vision, knowing how to make that a reality and communicating with you and your suppliers and being there for you!

Thanks a mill Annie for explaining the process so well - lots to think about, especially for those busy brides and grooms, having a helping hand to guide you through the process is an investment well worth considering, especially to relieve the stress of the day itself.

So what do you all think? Any questions for Annie? Fire away!

Annie also has her own blog over on Aislinn Events where you can find out more about her ideas and services.

Images via GreenWeddingShoes and OnceWed