It is that time of year, when all those new rings are sparkling on the fingers of newly engaged girls. That means it is time to make some plans. Remember that all my consultations, via phone or in-person are complimentary. This is a great way to ask questions and get answers. Here are a few things to consider when planing your consultations:

1: Schedule your consultations wisely.

Assuming that you're arranging consultations with more than one photographer, it's best to schedule all of your photographer meetings within the same day or two. Wedding photographers will offer you the courtesy of holding your date while you make your decision, but they can only hold that date for you for a few days or a week at most.

By booking your consultations within the same day or two, you guarantee that your wedding date is held by all of your potential photographers for a similar amount of time.

2: Prepare for your meeting.

During your consultation, a lot of information gets covered in a short amount of time. You want to be sure to ask all of the questions that are really important to you, so it's a good idea to write a list out beforehand and bring it with you.

3: Know your budget.

It wastes your time and the photographer's time if you meet with them and you're not sure about exactly how much you're prepared to spend on your wedding photography. Before scheduling a wedding photography consultation, decide on a budget and be certain that you and your fiance are both in agreement about the amount.

4: Know your wedding schedule.

Before you even start contacting photographers, make a list of the wedding photographs that are important to you and your fiancee. Do you want pre-ceremony photos? Ceremony only? Do you want posed shots with your wedding party, friends and family? Photos at the reception? A comprehensive list of the photos you want, will help you figure out how long to book your photographer.

When you meet with wedding photographers, they'll need to know how much time you'll want to book them for on your wedding day. Try to be sure about this before you meet with them. If you're not sure, bring the list of your 'must have' photos to your consultation.

5: Trust your instincts, not your wallet.

If you've done your research, you'll have only booked meetings with photographers who have good portfolios, who offer services, rates and photography styles that suit your needs. So the deciding factor will come down to who you'd most like to have as an integral part of your wedding day.

Sometimes you'll know right away. But if you're uncertain, ask yourself which photographer had a personality that seems well-suited to you and your fiance? Which photographer seemed the most competent, knowledgeable and trustworthy? Who seemed to be the most kind, considerate, polite and friendly?