One thing I often hear is the confusion between a wedding planner vs. a wedding coordinator. The difference between the two is really quite simple.
Allow me to explain…
The Wedding Planner
The wedding planner does just that-plan. He or she is in charge of the entire preparation for your big day. We are responsible for the critical decision making of all the elements that will compose your day. We are responsible for guiding your moves. Your planner determines the who, the what, the when, the where and the logistics of how it will all happen.
The Wedding Coordinator
The wedding coordinator coordinates! We execute every single one of those decisions. We ensure that your day is as seamless as possible. All the little details that make up your event uniquely yours, are brought to light. Your Coordinator is in charge of maintaining a timeline, they manage your vendors and they manage people and space. From your bridal party, to your guests, to you the bride and groom! We also respond to emergencies, changes and any fires that may arise. We are there to coordinate and troubleshoot anything pertaining to you, we represent you and look out for your best interest.
Wearing Both Hats
Most of us planners wear both hats, we can plan it all with you from beginning to end or we can step in to coordinate it if you have already done the amazing job of planning your entire wedding yourself. A consultation allows us to touch base with you, see where you are and what your specific needs are. The majority of us will offer a “full coordination” package, a “partial coordination” package and a month of coordination package, also known as “day of.”
Wedding Coordinator vs. Venue Coordinator
All that being said I must clarify also that there is also a difference between a wedding coordinator and a venue coordinator. A venue coordinator on the day of your wedding is there to coordinate all things that pertain to the venue, not your wedding specifically. Their responsibilities include highlighting the venue and their job is to deal with everything specifically having to do with the venue. They manage AC temperature, building accessibility, bathroom cleanliness, facilitate extra tables, work on layouts etc. They are there to help your coordinator with any facility issues that may arise.
Not knowing the differences among these titles can be costly mistakes, do not make the mistake of not hiring an actual wedding coordinator because your venue cost includes a “wedding coordinator.” Our role as your Wedding Coordinator on wedding day is drastically different and we are very much hands on.
Hire a Planner/Coordinator
It is worth every penny to hire a Planner and or coordinator. We should not be an afterthought to see how much money is left in your budget for a possible planner. We should be the first person you hire to guide you, advise you and maybe even lead you in the right direction to fit right in your budget, us included.
Maybe you are a bride who takes great joy in planning their day and you may not need us every step of the way but, you do need us on THE DAY. You want someone on your team who represents your vision and your every move. You don’t want to be tasked with this on wedding day nor do you want to be sweating all the small stuff. After all the planning and all the financial investment you need to take in your entire day and enjoy it. You spend months, sometimes years planning for this day and it goes by so quick. Invest in your sanity, alleviate your stress levels and enjoy every step of this beautiful journey!