Let’s be real — you shouldn’t have to turn into a private investigator just to plan your dream wedding.
But a few smart questions (and a little behind-the-scenes knowledge) can save you a ton of money, time, and heartache.

Here’s what I recommend — and the red flags 🚩 to watch for:

🚩 1. Ask for a Full Breakdown — Before You Sign Anything

Don’t just ask for a total price.
Ask for a full, itemized list of exactly what’s included — and what would cost extra.

Red Flag: If someone can’t clearly tell you what’s included or gets defensive when you ask for details? Run.

🚩 2. Beware of “Package Fatigue”

Some vendors will purposely overload wedding packages to confuse you into picking the most expensive one.

Instead, ask:

“Can I customize a package to fit my actual needs?”

A vendor like me has learned from this, and has since, created ala carte options to cater to each individuals customizable needs!

Red Flag: If a vendor acts annoyed when you ask to personalize or says “This is just the way it is” without explanation.

🚩 3. Watch for “Luxury” Without Substance

Some things are labeled luxury… but really, they’re basic with a fancy price tag.

Examples:

• A “luxury” linen that’s actually a standard poly blend.
• “Custom wedding design” that’s really a pre-set template with your colors dropped in.

Ask vendors to explain what truly makes something “luxury.”

Red Flag: If their answer sounds vague, rehearsed, or too good to be true — trust your gut.

🚩 4. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: “Is This Necessary?”

It’s okay to challenge things.

If someone suggests an “essential” upgrade, ask:

“Would you recommend this for everyone, or just for my specific wedding?”

Red Flag: If they can’t explain why it matters specifically for you — it probably doesn’t.

🚩 5. Choose Vendors Who Prioritize You (Not Their Portfolio)

Sadly, some vendors will upsell you just to get flashier photos for their Instagram.
You’re not here to be someone’s marketing tool.

Ask yourself after every meeting:

Did they listen more than they talked?
Did they get excited about my ideas — not just their own?
Did they suggest ways to maximize my wedding budget, not just spend more?

Red Flag: If you leave feeling like you were talked at instead of listened to.

Bottom Line:

Planning your wedding shouldn’t feel like a game of dodgeball — avoiding hidden fees and sneaky upgrades at every turn.
It should feel like a celebration of your love story — honest, joyful, and real.

And if you’re looking for a wedding planner who truly has your back, or really, a soundboard to tell you ‘yeah, this/they sound legit.’ (Hi, it’s me. 🙋‍♀️)

Pop me a message or email so we can chat more about changing those red flags to green!

Photo by: mandmterryphotography