Planner V. Designer what is the difference?

Most clients who aren’t sure about the difference between what planners do and what designers do.These two services have become so interchangeable that most of the time, it’s difficult to tell them apart.Not to mention the local banquet managers from hotels and venues who do not hesitate to tell clients they don’t need a planner.

1. Should a planner suggest what kind of flowers to use at an event? No no no no no. Even if this is their event, that is not their job. It’s the designer or florist’s job.

2. Should a planner bring the clients to more than one floral designer and let the client decide who they prefer best? This is tricky,most of the time only one is needed. If a planner understands the clients design needs they should be able to suggest one designer/florist for them.

3. Should a designer have direct contact with a client without their planner’s knowledge? I try never to do this. This could potentially create confusion with the project, not to mention undermining the planner’s authority. I am always sure to copy the planner in all emails if the bride emails me directly.

4. Is a florist responsible for creating floor plans? No. This should be the responsibility of a planner.

5. If there is a planner and a designer/florist involved, should you bill the clients directly? This depends on the agreement you made with the planner. Personally, I prefer billing directly however with some event venues it is in their contract to pay all vendors directly.

6. If a planner gets a designer a job, or a designer gets a planner a job, should they expect a commission? I do not accept commission. I want to be used based on my design skills not how much I pay you on the side.

7. Can banquet managers in hotels and venues plan an event? No they are great the day of but design is not their roll in the wedding. 

8. Should a florist or designer go to a food tasting? Never this is for a , it’s up to the the planner to manage all food and beverages.

9. Is it essential for the florist or designer to remain at the event all night after finishing their installation? Only if it’s requested by the planner or client. And also if they are concerned that something might fall. (At times I cannot sleep while the event is happening because of this concern.)

10. Last but not least, is it better to have one person doing both planning and designing?Doing both planning and designing takes a lot of effort and experience. You better know what you are doing, otherwise forget it.