Watch CBS News

Angie's List: Wedding Planning Pointers

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Wedding planning is a billion-dollar business with the average cost of a wedding now up around $30,000.

Couples who get tripped up on their way down the aisle are usually those who didn't have a well-researched, detailed plan in place.

Fortunately, Angie's List has some advice for how to avoid those pitfalls.

Loren and Morgan Snyder had a memorable wedding day last August. They didn't have a big budget, so they planned it on their own before bringing in a pro to be on site during their big day - and they're glad they did.

"The day of the event, she had to be assertive and she executed wonderfully. There were times when people were like, 'Oh, she's being pushy.' In reality, she's making sure things are happening when it needs to happen - to make sure she's happy," they said.

"Hiring a wedding planner will really reduce your stress around your special day, but be sure to get your contract in writing and understand exactly what's going to be done and how much it's going to cost," Angie's List Founder, Angie Hicks said.

A good wedding planner will cost you anywhere from $500 to several thousand dollars, depending on their involvement. You want someone with solid experience who will stick to your budget and offer good communication. Your planner should provide some excellent insights – and maybe even discounts – on things like florists, photographers and venues.

"Choose your venue first, not your date because the venue you love might not have the date available and that's what we dealt with," the Snyders said. "If you can get to know any of your vendors, it's evident in their work that they know you because they know your personality, they capture that. They know your best friends, they know your family circle and it's just evident in the work that they do."

The Snyders recommend making a list of certain people you want photographed beyond the standard family shots, so you are sure to remember them years down the road.

Even with help from a professional planner, venues can still go out of business and photographers can get sick or show up late.

Hicks said a wedding insurance policy is a good idea if you have invested thousands of dollars – just make sure you fully understand what's covered and what isn't.

Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.