day-of coordinator vs. planner

So, your venue already has a day-of wedding coordinator- that go-to person for your special day.  This person knows the ins and outs of your wedding venue, and is, of course, present on your day to ensure that everything runs smoothly.  Why hire a wedding planner then?

Let’s start with the basics.  If you’re looking for someone to plan your wedding anytime before the actual day, hire a wedding planner.  Similar to a day-of coordinator, the planner learns the venue space and is there to support you on the wedding day.  Most planners, including myself, offer a variety of packages including full service and partial planning.  As part of those services, we learn all the fine details not only as part of your venue, but also more importantly, assist with the decisions made outside of that space.  

We help you select that just-right DJ or Band to play your first dance song.  We research bridesmaid dresses until we find the perfect shade to compliment the color of the florals you have in mind.  We design your event with mood boards, floor plans, timelines, all to gradually bring your wedding vision to life.  We are with you every step of the way leading up to the big day.  

Best of all, we establish a relationship with your vendors and you, as the couple.  You want to have someone you can depend on, someone who knows your exact vision throughout these major decisions.  And as for the challenging times, it is our job, as your planner, to mediate in the midst of chaos.  We embrace the craziness, allowing you to feel at ease and ultimately enjoy the planning process.  It’s supposed to be fun- and that goes for your loved ones too!

Now if the “we’re with you every step of the way” line seems like too much, consider a month-of planner in addition to your venue’s day-of coordinator.  In the month leading up to your wedding, we solidify those close relationships with your vendors and family through the final meetings and tie-downs.  As with the other packages, month-of planning allows a planner to “fine tune” all your wedding details, ranging from the speeches to your final guest count, with the help of a master timeline.  All vendors, including your venue’s coordinator, will be on the same page with this day-of timeline.  Keep in mind that a planner is the leader of this team- the person who created a team of wedding professionals just for you.

There is a level of comfort and happiness that comes with hiring a planner for your wedding day.  You will have a shoulder to laugh and cry on throughout the entire process- not just on the day.  You will have all the fine details in order, even with changes that may come our way.  And most importantly, you will feel eager to dive right into the process.  After all, it is supposed to be a journey for you as a couple.  So, hire a planner to add that spark of excitement to your experience- we’ll make it an unforgettable one.