The first way to handle bridezillas/high-maintenance clients is to not take them on in the first place. Wedding planners should look for red flags before taking on a new customer. Things like rude behaviour in your initial meeting is an obvious indicator of a difficult client, as is an immediate focus on price. If the client is only concerned about low costs, then they may not see the value in your product or services. There are several other ways to handle a bridezilla or difficult client as a vendor, including:
Get it in writing
Maybe you really need the money or the demanding client was cunning enough to pass your initial meeting. The first thing to do is outline expectations in your contract.
Wedding planners establish multiple price tiers and are very clear about what is covered in each package. Make sure your contracts are specific on your standard pricing and also include information about how you charge for overtime or revisions.
Be the voice of reason
We’ve seen enough reality shows on TLC to know how bad a bridezilla can get. Don’t come down to their level. Take a breather and then proceed to deconstruct their fears. Lashing out is generally a result of stress, and understanding your client’s behavior will get you further than mirroring it.
Be okay with walking away
The most demanding bridezilla can sap the physical and emotional strength out of the most intrepid wedding planner. Unfortunately, if one client dominates your schedule, your other clients will feel the neglect.
Diversify your client portfolio enough that you can part ways with your most demanding client at any time. This is hard when you’re a hungry entrepreneur, but it’s healthier for your startup in the long run.
How do you handle a bridezilla or other difficult client? Let us know by leaving a comment below.
