The Untold Truth About Wedding Planning: Why You Need a Cleveland Wedding Planner in Your Corner
Photographer | Jillian Knight
Planning your wedding is an exciting milestone — but let’s be real, it’s also a massive undertaking. Between juggling countless decisions, managing your budget, and coordinating every detail, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where we come in.
Hi, I’m Janet, the owner and operator of Sterling Events— a wedding planner based in Cleveland, Ohio with over 25 years of experience in creating unforgettable celebrations.
My passion?
Turning your wedding vision into a seamless, stress-free reality. Whether you’re dreaming of a grand affair or an intimate gathering, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s pull back the curtain on what wedding planners actually do, bust common myths, and help you decide if hiring one is the right move for you.
Photographer | Caroline Abbey
Myth Busting: Wedding Planners Are Just for Decor
One of the biggest misconceptions about wedding planners is that we’re just focused on aesthetics. While we do love a well-designed event, our role goes far beyond selecting color palettes or arranging table settings.
Think of us as your strategic partner, logistics expert, and stress reliever all rolled into one. Keep reading to find out what we actually do for our clients!
So What Do Wedding Planners Actually Do Behind the Scenes?
Photographer | Andrew Thomas Design
1. Vendor Coordination
Finding the right vendors for your wedding is no small task.
From photographers to florists to rentals, venues and more, we use our connections and expertise to recommend trusted professionals who align with your vision and budget.
Once booked, we handle communication, contracts, and scheduling, so you don’t have to.
2. Budget Management
Weddings can come with hidden costs and unexpected expenses. As planners, we help you (and all of those involved in the planning) create a realistic budget, prioritize your spending, and ensure you get the most value for your money.
We also help you stick to your budget and discuss options to ensure that you still have the vision you want without breaking the bank.
Dustin at Astrid and Aria
3. Timeline Creation and Management
Think of us as the conductors of your wedding day. We create detailed timelines for vendors, your wedding party, and family members to ensure everything runs smoothly.
If there’s a hiccup (like a late delivery or a missing boutonnière), we handle it without skipping a beat.
4. Day-Of Coordination
On your wedding day, you deserve to be fully present. We’re there to oversee every detail, from vendor arrivals to the timing of your first dance.
If something goes awry (a stained dress, sweaty groomsmen who need fans, a need for tylenol or a snack for the flower girl), you’ll never know about it because we’ve already solved it.
Dustin at Astrid and Aria
5. Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving
Rain on your outdoor ceremony? A last-minute guest list change? Sun so hot your guests will melt?
These are just a few of the surprises we’re prepared to handle because we’ve been there and done that. Our job is to make sure your day feels effortless, no matter what challenges arise.
There are a lot of tasks and moving pieces to manage, which is why you might see that planning a wedding can be anywhere from 200-500 hours. So ask yourself…Do I have that kind of time?
Even after seeing everything that goes into planning an unforgettable day, you might still be asking yourself…
Okay, but do I really need a Wedding Planner?
Dustin at Astrid and Aria
While every couple’s needs are different, here are a few factors to consider:
1. Your Schedule
If you’re juggling a busy career or other commitments, finding time to research vendors, attend meetings, and coordinate details can feel impossible. A planner takes this off your plate so you can focus on what matters.
2. Your Budget
Hiring a planner might seem like an added expense, but it can actually save you money in the long run. We help you avoid costly mistakes and negotiate with vendors to get the best deals.
Courtney Paige Photography
3. Your Vision
If you have a clear idea of what you want but don’t know how to execute it, a planner can bring your vision to life while ensuring all the details align perfectly.
4. Your Stress Levels
Let’s be real: planning a wedding can be stressful and honestly, can even lead to arguments among family members. A planner’s expertise allows everyone involved to enjoy the process without the anxiety of managing every little detail.
The Bottom Line: Wedding Planners Are an Investment in Peace of Mind
New Image Photography
When you hire a wedding planner, you’re investing in more than just a service — you’re investing in your mental wellbeing.
From the first consultation to the reception send-off, we’re by your side to ensure every detail is executed flawlessly and intercept anything that may try to derail that before you even know about it.
Our ultimate goal is simple: to help you enjoy your engagement and wedding day without the stress.
Ready to learn more about how Sterling Events can make your big day stress-free and unforgettable? Schedule a free coffee chat today to see how we can help bring your dream wedding to life.
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