First of all, it was my mistake to sign a contract with this party planner. I freely admit that.
I felt safe working with Wakena as I had met her socially on a mom's entrepreneur networking event and asked her to assist in planning my father's 80th birthday celebration. Her fee was larger than expected, but it was supposed to cover all the logistics (venue, catering, decoration, music, etc). All contracts were to go through her business so that I had the minimal amount to do.
First, she researched two venues. The venue we selected she did not bother to negotiate on our behalf - she just presented the information. She had to be specifically asked to negotiate. Responses between emails were days. I felt like I had to stay on her to get anything done. The venue did not require many of the services she was hired to coordinate. Then, we had to work on the contract with the venue (which was not how we agreed things would work). Ultimately, we opted to cancel the party.
This is where the contract comes in. Yes, I signed a contract. I was not pleased with the service and don't feel she provided anything near what was promised. I'm out a ton of money for about a week of work. I have asked her to refund 50% and she has not replied to emails.
This is not the planner you want for an easy and stress free party. read more