The details that go into planning a wedding can often feel overwhelming. By the time you reach that special day, it can feel like crossing the finish line of a marathon. The last thing you want is for something unexpected to go awry on your big day. That’s where day-of wedding coordinators come into play.
Day-of wedding coordinators allow you to focus on enjoying your wedding, rather than getting bogged down by logistics. If you’re unsure what a day-of wedding coordinator does, here’s an overview to help you decide if this service could make your wedding day as stress-free as possible.
Day-of Wedding Coordinator Responsibilities
- Vendor Check-Ins: A coordinator will confirm that all vendors, from florists to caterers, arrive on time and are set up according to your plan. They handle any last-minute questions or issues that may arise, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
- Finalize Seating Charts: If there are any last-minute changes to your guest list or seating arrangements, your coordinator will adjust the seating charts accordingly. This ensures every guest knows where to go and can settle in without confusion.
- Wedding Party Check-Ins: Coordinators check in with the wedding party to make sure everyone is on schedule and has what they need, whether it’s a quick snack, assistance with attire, or calming pre-ceremony nerves.
- Wedding Ceremony Checklist: Your coordinator will ensure all elements of the ceremony are in place, from lining up the wedding party to confirming that the officiant is prepared. They will also handle small details like cueing the music and ensuring the ceremony runs smoothly.
- Ensure Bride & Groom Eat Before Ceremony: It’s easy for couples to forget to eat amidst the excitement and nerves. A day-of coordinator makes sure you and your partner have a moment to relax and enjoy a meal or snack, keeping your energy up for the big day.
- Prepare Final Payments: To make sure all your vendors are paid without you having to think about it, coordinators organize and distribute final payments on your behalf. This includes preparing tip envelopes for those who have gone above and beyond.
- Create Tip Envelopes: A coordinator can prepare labeled envelopes with tips for each vendor, ensuring that everyone is compensated appropriately and promptly, taking the guesswork out of tipping on the wedding day.
- Create Day-of Itinerary: A detailed itinerary will be created and shared with your wedding party, vendors, and anyone involved in the big day, outlining everything from setup times to the last dance. This keeps everyone on the same page and the day running smoothly.
- Gift Caretaker: Your coordinator will keep track of gifts and cards brought to the event, ensuring they are collected, stored safely, and transported to your designated location at the end of the night.
- Pack a Day-of Emergency Kit: From extra safety pins and stain remover to pain relievers and breath mints, a well-stocked emergency kit can save the day. Your coordinator will have everything on hand to handle any unexpected hiccups.
Your wedding day should be about celebrating, not stressing over last-minute details. If having these tasks managed by someone else sounds appealing, then hiring a day-of wedding coordinator is a great choice.
Contact the Simplified team to make your wedding day as stress-free as possible with our Simplified Events Wedding program. Our experienced coordinators are dedicated to making sure every aspect of your special day goes off without a hitch, so you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying every moment.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in August 2018 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.