Ever wonder why heavy cream cost more than ½ and ½ and why they both cost more than regular milk?

 

Once the pasteurization process is complete the top part – the cream is skimmed off – it has to be more than 36% milk fat – it takes a bit more work to produce than either of the other two.

 

Half and half – takes a little less work and is a little less rich – it has to contain 10.5% – to 18% milk fat…it’s basically a mixture of milk and heavy cream.

 

Milk is by nature the easiest to produce, and contains much less milk fat…

 

OK! WHERE THE HECK ARE YOU GOING?

 

People ask all the time – “How much does a wedding planner cost?

 

There are a bunch of answers to that question – regionalism plays a big part in that answer…thing cost more in many big cities versus smaller towns …

 

Another factor is referral fees and kickbacks – in some areas it’s acceptable (Not in Philly) – some planners charge clients less to plan as they are getting paid by wedding vendors to send them clients –

 

We refer to this as double dipping…

 

The big factor in pricing is generally experience, education and knowledge.

 

Milk – is perfectly good for most people – new planners, and brides who planned their own wedding and decided to do this professionally, will do a great job for many clients.

 

Depending on the financial investment for your wedding, how many details, the number of contract you need assistance with, design…any number of factors…

 

Less experienced planners often charge less because the can – many aren’t members of associations, paying for continuing education, or networking to learn more about related industries or are planning weddings as a hobby or part time- they have a “real job” which bills.

 

Not a bad thing – but will they be accessible if you need assistance and they are working their 9-5 job?

 

Half and Half – these are wedding consultants who are working in the business full or close to full time – have hands on experience, have taken classes or are studying and networking in various associations…or have been mentored by a more experienced local planner.

 

They have set prices which are competitive in their market based on their experience levels vs. those of the people who have mentored them…

 

Heavy Cream – Professional Wedding Consultants -every market has some – these are the wedding consultants who have a number of years of experience (generally 5+), often in related industries as well (catering, floral design, bridal attire)–

 

They are active parts of local and national associations, stay current on industry trends, attend or present at industry conferences, and are often quoted in wedding industry publications because of their experience…

 

They have experience in design, negotiation, and excellent resources and thrive because of their customer service…

 

They charge slightly more because of the demanding clientele they serve – the level of customer service they offer, the skills they possess and the relationships they have developed

 

Typically their clients value them as an investment – not an expense – they know that an experienced professional wedding consultant will save them money because of their experience, ability to negotiate, and their ability to  assist couples in focusing their time and energy…

 

Things that come with education, experience and having built solid relationships with respected industry wedding professionals…

 

Professional Wedding Consultants are similar to good heavy cream –

 

Except, you can beat heavy cream…

 

But you can’t beat a Professional Wedding Consultant!