Why Hire a Planner?

The reasons to hire a planner for your Costa Rica event are obvious—to me. But I’ve been in this business a long time. Here’s why I think you’d be crazy not to hire a planner for your special event in Costa Rica: 

1. Your Current Location. Chances are you’re planning an event in Costa Rica…while in another country. Chances are Spanish is also not your first language (speaking from experience here). And chances are you have never been to Costa Rica—or, if so, maybe for one week a few years ago. Really, this is reason enough for you to hire a planner. Whoever you choose, you should find a planner you connect with to support you in this process. 

2. Costa Ricans Are Too Nice. There, I said it. One of the things I love the most about Costa Rica is its people. They are hands down some of the friendliest people in the world. They will go out of their way to help you and are generally really, really happy. (Seriously we were named the Happiest Country on the Planet again last year.) However, when planning an event, I have found this can actually be a hindrance. Why? Because Costa Ricans will almost always say yes. To anything. Even if they don’t fully understand what it is you want. It always comes with the best of intentions, and might not be a big deal in most instances. But if you are planning a special event, it’s important to have someone who completely understands what you want and can clearly communicate that for you—and, more importantly, make it happen. 

3. Stress. Planning an event is stressful enough. Traveling internationally is stressful enough. There is no need to make it any more stressful. I can help you with every single arrangement, from the moment you land until the moment you depart. It can actually be fun! 

4. It Saves You Money. And you get more for your dollar. I’ve done most of the price comparisons for you. I know what’s available and how to get the best value for your dollar. Better yet, by drawing on my long-standing relationships with vendors, I can also get you extra perks and better pricing in general. 

5. It Saves You Time. Again, I’ve already done most of the research for you. If I don’t already have the answer, I promise I will find it for you. Instead of spending hours on search engines looking for vendors in the area and trying to translate or communicate what you want (and then trying to get payment to each one), you can do it all at once by hiring a planner. 

6. Choose The Right Venue For You. The area boasts lots of hidden gems that we have discovered over the years. It’s hard to tell what an event venue is really like from a website. The photos don’t show what’s next door or across the street—or that it is 30 minutes up a 4x4-only driveway! I have personally experienced most of the venues available in the Arenal area. I know—from direct experience—the pros and cons that come with each one and help you decide which is best for you.

7. You Will Eat, Breathe, and Relax. This comes with having less stress. Plus the food you eat will be local, fresh and delicious. The air you breathe will be pure and clean rainforest air. Your only responsibility will be to sit back, relax, enjoy the experience, and look good. Period. 

Think you don’t need a planner? Here’s why I (respectfully) disagree: 

1. There is truly no downsides to hiring a planner. Myself or someone else. 

2. If you think your budget doesn’t have space, know that without a qualified planner you will likely make (avoidable) mistakes during the planning process or at the event that cost you in the long run... often much more than a coordinator would have cost! (Most couples who do it themselves say they wish they had hired a planner.) 

3. Prohibitive cost is one of the most common misconceptions about hiring a planner. But actually, you’ll get more bang for your buck. When you have a group of vendors who have worked together and have a cohesive relationship, they will stop at nothing to make sure an event goes smoothly. You can’t put a price on that. 

4. You can still DIY. As much as you would like in fact. We usually welcome it. And it can save you a bundle as well. You still make all of the decisions and add all of your personal touches to your event. Event planning is a unique process of co-creation, and I love to see the original ideas that emerge!