India, Nov. 29 -- Choosing a wedding planner isn't like booking a regular vendor. It's more like finding that one person who becomes your creative director, problem-solver, vibe curator and sometimes even part-time therapist.

To pull off a celebration that feels true to you, emotional, beautiful, Insta-worthy and stress-free, you need to start with honesty.

We spoke to industry insiders Devanshi Patel, Founder, Shreem Events, and Damini Oberoi, Founder, Q Events & Weddings, to decode the five things every couple must share with their planner from day one.

No sugarcoating, no mystery numbers. Be real. Devanshi says, "Go beyond stating a budget, share your working number and what matters most to you. More transparency means better value,...