Day-of wedding coordinators handle the unexpected.

Planners and couples alike do their best to make sure everything is ready for the wedding day. But even the best laid plans can go awry. Experienced coordinators are experts in handling situations that can be uncomfortable or out of anyone’s control. They’re well versed in making sure that each issue is handled discreetly and quickly so that couples aren’t even aware of it. For example, if there are crashers at the wedding, the coordinator will ask them to leave. If traffic prevents the live music from arriving on time, the coordinator will find a solution. If the father of the bride is missing before the father-daughter dance, the coordinator will find them. And so on.

Coordinators coordinate with your vendors.

A day-of wedding coordinator has many jobs, both leading up to and during the big day. One of their most important functions is coordinating with vendors. Coordinators typically meet with vendors before the wedding to make sure they’re aware of scheduling. They work with the caterer to make sure that they arrive on time and have time to set up. They make sure that any special dietary requirements are met and that meals, dessert bars, and any special food stations are set up and ready by the time everyone arrives.

Beyond helping with catering, a wedding coordinator is constantly behind the scenes working with the venue, florist, decor team, and other staff members. They make sure the tables are set according to the couple’s instructions, ensure that the officiant is on time and the ceremony starts when it’s supposed to, and that all vendors are ready. They can even work with the photographer to make sure that the couple gets the wedding photos they want.

Wedding coordinators help conduct the rehearsal.

Aside from the day of the wedding, a coordinator also usually assists with the rehearsal, too. Coordinators make sure everyone is on the same page and knows where they need to be and when they need to be there. From the processional to the recessional, the coordinator lets the wedding party and family members know what is happening and the order it is happening in. They also work with the officiant to make sure that any and all religious parts of the ceremony are respected.

Coordinators stick to the vision.

Day-of wedding coordinators generally begin working with a couple about a month in advance. This gives them time to confirm everything with the vendors, work on the detailed schedule, timing, and floor plan, and most importantly, learn the vision the couple has for their wedding.

Weddings are extremely personal for each couple. It’s the coordinator’s job to make sure that the couple gets exactly what they want and have paid for. This includes making sure all decorations are in line with the vision and that the aesthetic is correct. For example, if the couple is going for a minimalist wedding, a coordinator’s task may be to make sure that everything brought into the space adheres to that. While the coordinator isn’t generally involved in the development of the vision, they are well versed in making sure that everything is in its proper place at the right time.