They make sure everything runs flawlessly, but for a price. Should you hire a day-of coordinator?
We know you’ve heard it from past brides — you’ll be so busy with hair, makeup, pictures, and finally walking the aisle that you’ll have no time to play traffic cop. If you’re planning on meeting with your vendors, helping with setup, or directing your guests where to go…think again, BOLI.
So who will be there to make sure everything goes according to plan? Well, you could entrust the tasks of the day to a friend or family member, but that could interfere with their enjoyment of your wedding. Cue the day-of coordinator.
What are day-of coordinators?
Day-of coordinators are wedding pros that come in on — you guessed it — the day of your wedding to ensure that everything works together seamlessly. They’ll keep your vendors (and your bridal party) on the right timeline, handle any last-minute emergencies, and help set up personal decor items. They can also help direct guests to the appropriate places, or even run small errands for you when needed.
BOLI Preferred Vendor Westbury Manor is the perfect setting for your perfect celebration. From their lush grounds to their professional staff, Westbury Manor is dedicated to creating an individualized experience.
What’s the difference between a wedding planner and a day-of coordinator?
Wedding planners join your vendor team at the very beginning, months or years before the big day. They help you determine your vision, choose the right venue, and even hire other vendors. Most of their work is done in advance of your wedding.
While you’ll want to hire a day-of coordinator before the big day, they’ll do most of their job during the actual wedding. They make sure all the plans you’ve put into place are carried out correctly and according to your timeline. They usher guests in the right direction, communicate with your vendors, and ensure that everything is where it needs to be when it needs to be there.
Many wedding planners can and often do work as day-of coordinators as well. So if you’ve hired a wedding planner, chances are they’ll have day-of coordinator packages available.
When should you hire a day-of coordinator?
Having a day-of coordinator at the helm of your wedding may seem like a no-brainer. Who wouldn’t want a point person in charge so you can sit back, relax, and trust that everything will run according to plan?
Really, the only reason to skip a day-of coordinator would be due to your budget. Like any other vendor you’d hire, day-of coordinators come with a price tag — and depending on the coordinators experience or years in the industry, that price tag can be pretty high.
You may also choose to forgo a day-of coordinator if you’re getting married at “typical” wedding venue, as they often have maître d’s on staff that take care a lot of the same tasks that a day-of coordinator would handle.
Day-of coordinators can come in clutch if you’ve planned a DIY wedding, or are getting married at a non-typical venue. In these scenarios, you’ll definitely need someone in charge of the show (and again, that can’t be you!)
Image courtesy of The Glenmar Studio
Where to find day-of coordinators
If you’re on the hunt for one of the best wedding planners and day-of coordinators on Long Island, check out BOLI’s Preferred Vendors! Your day is in amazing hands with one of these well-established and respected pros.