More Than a Vendor: Becoming a Venue’s Trusted Planner

Ever wondered what venue coordinators really think when wedding planners walk through their doors? In this eye-opening conversation, Nikki Rodgers, Master Certified Wedding Planner and Certified Educator, joins Krisy Thomas, COO of the CWP Society, to pull back the curtain on both sides of the planning experience.

With over a decade of experience managing venues, sometimes coordinating up to six events in a single day, Nikki transitioned into wedding planning with a perspective few others possess. She reveals the behind-the-scenes realities of venue management, including the relief coordinators feel when they can trust a planner to handle their role with professionalism and precision.

What sets Nikki apart is her approach to building relationships. Rather than assuming all venues operate the same, she stresses the importance of tailoring communication to each property. Even with her extensive background, she takes time to learn every venue’s unique processes, from load-in procedures to staffing structures. This humility and adaptability have helped her forge strong partnerships that benefit venues, planners, and couples alike.

Nikki also shares why what she calls “over-communication” should actually be the industry standard. From proactively gathering requirements to keeping coordinators in the loop on every detail, these small, intentional gestures position planners as trusted partners. And when planners take the extra step to consider what moments venue staff may want to share with couples, the relationship becomes not just professional—but truly collaborative.

The conversation doesn’t shy away from tough lessons either, including the mistakes that can get planners blacklisted from venues. Nikki explains how certification elevated her business, even after years of experience, proving that education and growth are ongoing for every planner.

Ready to transform your venue relationships and elevate your planning career? Visit cwpsociety.com to discover how certification can give you the skills, credibility, and confidence to thrive

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