A question asked frequently by many brides is, “what is the difference between an event coordinator and a wedding planner?” Although both parties may be involved in the wedding process, their responsibilities and concerns vary. Some brides may decide to have both at their weddings but most gravitate to one. While the wedding coordinator works for the needs of the venue, the event planner works for the needs of the bride.
Event coordinators are hired a month or two before the big day. Some of the coordinator’s’ responsibilities include: showcasing the venue, arranging the food and beverages run smoothly and on time, and ensuring the take down is efficient. Most event coordinators leave after the meal is served. Another thing to keep in mind is that although you may have been working with one event coordinator before the wedding, there might be a different individual on the day of.
Wedding planners are present for every decision and detail before and on the wedding day. Wedding planners are hired early on in the wedding planning process. The responsibilities of the wedding planner before the big day include: arranging the venue, contracts, itinerary and timeline, rehearsal, and whatever the bride desires. On the day of, their job includes: aiding the preparation, ceremony, grand entrance, dancing speeches, and more. Wedding planners are also constantly on quality control and personalize the detail and decor. Typically wedding planners take over the reins a month or so out to allow the bride to distress and enjoy being a bride. Wedding planners give expert advice while perfecting the wedding experience.
Sarah Lurie, June 2nd 2016
Ivory Events