Different parts of the world do things very differently, and in the wedding and event industry that means that clients have very different ideas of what’s acceptable and what they are willing to pay for. Even in America, things can vary wildly from state to state!
In some places, planners are called event organizers or event producers. Designers meanwhile are sometimes referred to as event stylists or florists. Regardless of title, though, the challenges remain the same. We still have to explain to our clients why our services are worth the money.
History, too, plays a big role, and it can help us understand why clients resist paying for some services and not others.
Here’s a little history quiz:
When do you think the concept of a planner first appeared in New York?
A) Before 1980
B) Between 1980 and 1983
C) Between 1984 and 1987
D) Between 1988 and 1991
E) After 1991
Do you know when it first appeared in your city? Please share in the comments! And I’ll give you my answer in tomorrow’s Dear Preston column. You are not going to believe the answer!
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George Bernard Shaw once said: “You see things and say, ‘Why?’ But I dream things that never were and say, ‘Why not?’” That quote embodies how Preston Bailey approaches every event.
kajal
November 7, 2011
before 1980
Angeles Porcel
November 7, 2011
In Granada, Spain. The concept of Wedding Planner is something new and unknow for people. When a couple ask me for information about our services and what we can do for them, the first reference which I make is the following “Do you have seen the Jennifer López’s movie with Mathew?
CLIENTS: “Oh yes, we did it”
My answer: Ok, I will make the same that Jennifer for your wedding. But I won’t be married with the groom!!!
This joke is perfect to give an idea to people about being a Wedding Planner, and invite couples to have a more relaxed chat about their wedding.
Renae
November 7, 2011
I was first married in 1985 and the concept of a “wedding coordinator” was around at the time; however the perception was that “they” were exclusive to rich and famous people only. For the small town bride they were elusive; so my answer is 1980-1983.
Funny how I too have used the same “Wedding Planner” joke to explain what I do. Although I would also ask if they’ve seen “Father of the Bride” then explain that we were with the spectrum of extremes; not as flamboyant as Hans, but also didn’t run off with the groom…….
Kathy
November 7, 2011
before 1980
Christina Wang
November 8, 2011
I think it should be before 1980
Savannah (Pearls and Pages)
November 8, 2011
Ohhhh eagerly awaiting the answer! Well if we can’t believe it then is it after 1991? That would really surprise me.
Looking forward to your next blog post!
Rebecca Lang
November 11, 2011
My question would be, if you are an event designer and hire an event planner, whats the difference in roles in your book?
Laura Taylor
November 12, 2011
Wedding planners are existed way back hundred years ago. The difference is that, wedding planning is not a certified carrier in the old times. There are just people who participated and lead the wedding planning as they want to help couples, but they are not employed. But now, wedding planning is a career. Wedding planners are hired by couples to make their dream weddings come true.