Wedding Wednesdays: 5 Tips from Wedding Planners You'll Want to Hear

There are a few reasons why we always stress the importance of getting a wedding planner if your budget allows. Besides making sure your wedding day goes off without a hitch, wedding planners have tons of experience and are an endless source of inspiration, ideas and advice. From venue hunting tricks to the secret behind sticking to your budget, The Knot's favorite wedding pros have spoken and shared their must-know planning hacks and foolproof, real-talk tips. We're here to give your our top 5. Check these out!

On budgeting:

"Keep your guest list to those most important to you. An increased guest count is the easiest way for additional costs to sneak up on you, since you'll need to add more invitations, flowers, food and linens." —Shannon Gail Clemonds, Shannon Gail Weddings and Events

"Don't be afraid of off-peak months, and don't hesitate to ask for a discount—you never know unless you try." —Kisha Barner, Pure Ambiance Event Design

On planning:

"Think about your wedding logistics—specifically, how your guests will experience every moment, from receiving the save-the-dates to sitting at their table. When you see everything from a guest's perspective, all of the choices you make for your day will be memorable ones." —Laura Ritchie, Grit & Grace Inc.

"Stick to your guest list once it's complete. When it's done, it's done. It can be stressful and confusing for all involved when you take away or add more family members or friends to the list." —Crystal Hartmann, Harts & Quills

On flowers:

"Choosing flowers that are not only readily available but will also work well in your climate is key. Having a style you want, as opposed to an exact flower, will give your florist the flexibility they need." —Carly Blair, Margot Blair Floral

"Many photographers love to have extra blooms for detail shows or for setting up invitation suite photos, so ask to have a few special flowers on hand, just in case." —Lori Witmer, Wildflowers by Design

On venues:

"Checking a city's calendar is always a smart idea before booking a venue. I've had numerous couples set a date only to find out later that a large festival or major event is also taking place that same weekend." —Brittany Ellis Cole, Eventrics Weddings

"Take into consideration what's included in the venue's cost and site fees. Some venues include tables, chairs, china, flatware and glassware—but if their items don't fit your vision for the day, you'll eventually have to rent everything anyway. That venue could be comparable to another that doesn't include anything at all." —Kelly McLeskey-Dolata, A Savvy Event

On unexpected emergencies:

"Make sure that engagement ring is insured—no one needs a missing ring!" —Alicia Caldecott, A Day in May Event Planning & Design

"Always have one of your photographers take the stairs: One time, both photographers got stuck in a hotel elevator on the way to the church. It took more than 30 minutes to get them out, while I frantically tried to see if we could find another photographer to shoot the ceremony." —Lindsay Pitt Sims, TOAST Events

True words of wisdom! We hope this inspires you to consider working with a wedding planner (or at least take some of their advice). Devour the details of planning your special day with these must-know planning hacks and foolproof, real-talk tips! You'll be happy you did!