Many couples are newly engaged after the holidays and now it’s that time to begin the first stages of planning. One topic that typically arises for most brides and couples is the inevitable question of “do we need a wedding coordinator” ?
I, as a wedding coordinator myself, know that the benefits of having a wedding coordinator far outweigh th
ose reason not to hire one – even if you only hire them for the day of your wedding (what you’d be surprise to find out that most Day of Coordinating actually begins a month out). With so many valuable resources at your fingertips it’s easy to understand that feeling of – I’ll plan it myself, I have all the information I need or I have plenty of family to help. There is also the other misconception that wedding planner are not their weight in gold, we are glorified birthday planners and that have the easiest job on earth. Or better yet, we’re using you only to create our dream wedding. Believe me when I say, I’ve heard some pretty entertaining and outlandish ideas of what people think we as wedding coordinators actually do.
Because hiring a wedding coordinator is not for everyone or every budget, I do understand the opposition. I would strongly advise anyone who is planning a wedding to at least consider meeting or speaking with a wedding coordinator in the initial planning phases. You would be surprised that most coordinator are actually more affordable than you think and offer a variety of services that can be tailored to each couples needs and budgets. Did you notice the word ‘need’ and not wants or desires? I do not think that every couples needs to hire a full time wedding planner, but I do think all couples need to consider what their wedding experience might be like with out one.
For example, you might consider consulting with a wedding coordinator that might cost you $50-$100 an hour, to discuss your plans and get you on the right the track. Trust me when I say that that $100 will be well spent when you’ve hired the best caterer in town at a far price and you fully understand your venue contract or they’ve taken items off your to-do list that are overwhelming like calling your guests that have not yet RSVP’d for you wedding that is next month!
Here are just some of the additional reasons to consider hiring a wedding coordinator:
The Casting Agent – The bridal industry is swamped for choice, but what you really need is trustworthy recommendations. Only somebody with a little black book of top-notch operators can sort the best from the rest.
The Diplomat – Emotions run high when two families join together. Sometimes you just need an objective opinion, and a mediator to help find a compromise.
The Director – For the main event to run like clockwork, somebody has to be in charge. Here are leaders with adrenalin and tact to get all your wedding suppliers to do their job – so you can relax and be the star.
The Accountant – Money is the lifeline to a dream wedding, but it has to be spent wisely. A wedding planner can organize quotes, help you stick to your budget and offer clever money-saving tips that will leave you with more cash for the honeymoon.
The Educator – If a wedding is a rehearsal for life, make sure the final exam is a happy ending. Trust an expert who can teach you about bridal etiquette, the latest wedding trends, and the philosophy of marriage beyond the big day.
The Best Friend – Your best buddy who lends an ear when you need it most. Your wedding will give you many reasons to vent and sometimes the best fix for a problem is just talking things through.
The Scriptwriter – We give your wedding a story and a theme – like Winter Wonderland in the snow, or 40s glamour on a hotel rooftop? Here’s inspiration for a unique and personalized wedding that shows people who you are, and what you mean to each other.
The Stylist – What to wear, where to find it, and how to get it finished on time. A stylist to give you the truth on what’s flattering for your figure, when family and friends are too scared to offend.
The Negotiator – Every bride needs an agent. Somebody to fight your battles, haggle on price and defend your vision. The mission doesn’t end until you drive off into the sunset.
The Weather Girl – Thank God somebody has a wet weather back up plan, plus a rain kit with umbrellas, makeup, towels, and everybody’s phone numbers to give them the latest itinerary change.
Okay, so the last reason is not a great one but the point here is to show that your wedding planner is there to help you and can take put on any and all hats necessary for you to enjoy your wedding and the wedding process.
Another great article by Preppy Chic
Experience Bend like a local—or if you’re local, live it up like a tourist—by hanging your beanie at a historic Lavabelles cottage (
idocentraloregon 
