Day-of Coordinator FAQs: Why do I need a day-of coordinator?

A wedding/event is not something that is planned and then just happens. The execution of the plan is what will make or break how successful and smooth the day will feel/be. The truth is, you can't do it alone! A day-of coordinator fills in all the gaps while you are focused on you and if you've never gotten married or been in a wedding or planned a large event, it's hard to see where those gaps exist.

Let's start off with the first (and most obvious) question:

Why do I need a day-of coordinator?

There are a few answers to this question so let's just dive right in...

1. To be your right hand (wo)man.

• Someone to call on whenever you're thinking about a last minute detail, make sure your hair is holding during couples photos, bustle your dress, make sure someone has the rings, communicate schedules, etc. Most importantly: to give you peace of mind that everything is taken care of.

2. To facilitate communication between vendors.

• You’ve handled everything up to this point, so there has to be someone you can pass it off to and trust that your vision will come to life. We make sure all the plans that you made are executed! We are the day-of contact for everything from flowers to photography to catering to officiant. We make sure people are where they are when they are supposed to be there and that things are being done efficiently and timely. You don't need to be worrying about a caterer who needs to be shown where the kitchen is, or answering a call from the florist who doesn't know where to park. We are the point of contact for all the questions, all day long!

3. To decorate.

• All those decorations you ordered/made? All those table settings you saved on Pinterest? The special guest book you want to have setup? We are there to bring your vision to life from the entrance to tear down. Everything you need, we're there to get it done the way you want.

4. To get people where they need to be.

• This includes the vendors (makeup artist to the bridal suite, etc.); wedding party for photos, ceremony lineup, reception entrance, speeches; guests for the ceremony, cocktail hour, reception; wrangling family for the family photos.

• We also run the ceremony rehearsal ensuring everyone knows where they need to be, walk, stand, sit, etc. before the big day.

5. To help you be prepared.

• Do you have a family photos list? What are your plans for lunch for the wedding party? How do you plan on getting the decorations to the venue? These are the most basic of questions and things that we remind you of in that month before the wedding. It's easy to get caught up in the big things and forget about the little details so we will be there to guide you. We will also work together and with the photographer to create a timeline for the day-of to help things run smooth and stay on track which brings us to our next point!

6. To keep things on schedule.

• You shouldn’t have to be checking the clock and making sure other people are dressed and ready! We will make sure things are happening in a timely manner and that everyone knows where they should be and when. We want this to be a relaxed day! It’s not about rushing, it’s about gentle reminders and giving plenty of wiggle room to ensure a fun environment and plenty of time and space for everything the day includes.

7. To help solve any problems that arise.

• Although you might feel like everything is locked in and perfect, unexpected things can arise. You can get behind schedule, people can be late, accidents can happen. Ideally, you never even realize there's little bumps because they are smoothed out and we're on top of it! We will always communicate when necessary, but it's nice to know that you don't need to be privy to every little mishap that might occur.

My venue offers an event coordinator - do I still need to hire a day-of coordinator?

My opinion is yes. This is due to experience, but it's not always true. Sometimes venues have incredible event coordinators that will guide you through the whole process and be everything you need them to be on the day-of. Other/most times, the event coordinator is so focused on the venue and its needs that your vision and needs are set aside. I would come up with a list of your priorities and ask if they are willing and able to help with those things before making a decision.

What's the difference between a day-of coordinator and a planner?

Day-of coordinators are only involved in the month leading up to the wedding. You've already booked the vendors, finalized contracts, ordered any decorations and supplies, etc. We are just here to execute all of it. Planners are involved from the beginning and will help you find vendors, book them, keep everything organized and the planning timeline on track, ideate on colors and decor, book appointments for dress shopping and tours, etc. They will also be there to make all of that come to life on the day of the event.

• We offer day-of coordinating, partial planning, and vendor search help. Request more information by submitting this form.

What's the difference between a day-of coordinator and a month-of coordinator?

For me, there is no difference! With the package we offer, there is involvement at least a month out to finalize timelines, walk through the venue, create a contact list, communicate about set-up and specific needs, and more. It would be very difficult to truly just hire someone for the day without giving them any information or work ahead of time, this is just what the position is called!

Why shouldn't I hire my (insert family member here)?

I'm sure your (aunt/uncle, cousin, friend) has the best intentions offering to help out on the day-of. Sometimes it works but other times it's very hard to rely on someone on the inside to execute properly and be a reliable person from the beginning to the end. As a coordinator, I barely have time to sit down and eat during some weddings. You should know that their participation in the day will be minimal outside of managing everything from start to finish - and if it's more, there are probably some things that will fall on your plate or not get taken care of. It's also harder for family members not to share the weight and bring other people in if something goes wrong, or they realize it's too much to handle too late. If you aren't fully confident that they are experienced and steady under pressure, they are NOT the one for the job. The only reason I would say this is okay is if it's someone that you weren't planning on inviting anyways and who has a history with weddings and events. Otherwise, just hire someone! Most people who got someone close to them to help instead of hiring someone would tell you the same.

How do I choose a day-of coordinator?

Pretty much the same way you've chosen all your other vendors up until this point! I would start with budget. Decide how much you can spend and then move forward on reaching out to a few that you can find in your area. Once you schedule a consultation, inquire about the following: their experience, a time they had to fix a problem that came up and how they handled it, if they've worked at your venue, and what their back-up plan would be if they couldn't make it on that day for any emergency reason. After this, go with your gut. They should be someone that you feel like you can be comfortable with and that you would be happy to have around all day on your very special day.

I'm getting married in 3 months - is it too late to book a day-of coordinator?

Nope! You still have time to hire someone that will be able to support you and fulfill everything you need in time for your wedding. Since the wedding industry is currently booming, it might be a little harder to find someone with availability but it is doable and not that uncommon to book in that timeline!

How can I hire you as my day-of coordinator?

I'm so glad you asked! Fill out the contact form with a few details about your event and we will get back to you about our availability as soon as possible.

Have any other questions? Comment and ask below!