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Want to make the most of your wedding planner's time? While a signed contract is a great first step, turning into a total bridezilla, or worse, a stage-five clinger, midway through the process is definitely not the wisest way to go. Remember: Wedding planners are people too, and you've got to give respect to get it. We asked a bunch of seasoned wedding planners to tell it like it really is when it comes to all the little (and not so little) things that annoy them.
Come with a vision.
"I know this is a hard one because some people really don't know what they want, but at least have a vague idea what direction you would like to move in, maybe a color palette or a theme you like, so we can pull it all together and not have to create a vision for you." — Shafonne Myers, wedding planner and founder of Pretty Pear Bride
Include them in vendor conversations.
"Calling your vendors directly can certainly annoy your planner, especially if you're discussing details they should be privy to. Always include your planner in all wedding planning discussions." — Shawn Rabideau, president of Shawn Rabideau Events & Design
See More: Your Last-Minute, Pre-Wedding Vendor Checklist
Trust their expertise.
"Once you've chosen your planner, trust them and their expertise. Most planners (and vendors for that matter) appreciate the trust, and in return, will go above and beyond your expectations." — Sunny Ravanbach, president of White Lilac Events
See More: 10 Things a Bride Should Never Do According to a Wedding Planner
Be on time.
"If you can't make an appointment, please let your planner know in advance. This is particularly crucial during the busy season because make up or late appointments can be very difficult to reschedule." — Karen Gramlich and Laura Booker of Winey Blonde Events Co.
Use Pinterest only for ideas.
"Not for a full design. No one wants to copy another's work or a design they have seen repinned 10000 times on Pinterest. Plus, you want your wedding to be original too, right?" — Francesca DiSalvo-Follmer, owner of Pure Luxe Bride
Don't expect them to answer your calls around the clock.
"Wedding planners usually work normal office hours on days when they're not executing events, and they don't love working extra nights to accommodate clients' work schedules. Sometimes it has to be done, but it's important to remember that they work in a field that doesn't give them a lot of free time or at-home time with their families and to try and respect that." — Sandy Malone, owner of Weddings in Vieques
Make your mind up.
"Wishy-washy and indecisive thinking can be annoying. The planner is typically working within a timeline to get all activities successfully executed, ensuring all the 'I's are dotted and 't's crossed. The planner will present many options and it's up to the couple to make some concrete and firm decisions in a timely manner. This also applies to last-minute changes that can have a domino effect." — Greg Jenkins, founder of Bravo Productions