Do you know the difference between a wedding planner and a venue coordinator? Often, couples will find that a coordinator is included in their venue hire fee, and mistakably assume that this means they don’t require the services of a wedding planner. Make sure you are in the know to save yourself from unexpected grief and frustration throughout your planning process and on your wedding day.
A Venue Coordinator’s Duties
The venue coordinator is a paid employee of the venue. In other words, they work for the venue and not for you. They are often associated with the venue’s sales and catering team, and their primary responsibility is to facilitate and oversee all the details pertaining to the venue itself – such as room locations and layout, venue occupancy, cleaning staff, and food and beverage services. In addition, the person you meet when you book your venue may not necessarily be the same person who runs the venue on the day of your wedding. More often than not, one person will manage the venue during the day and then pass the reins to an evening banquet manager. The venue coordinator may offer some advice to the engaged couple along the way, but they are not your personal wedding planner.
A Wedding Planner’s Duties
On the other hand, a wedding planner is experienced in all areas of the wedding and works directly with the engaged couple to professionally guide them throughout the entire process. The planner is invested in getting to know the personal style of the couple along with the vision for their wedding, and works with them to find the best venue and vendors that will help bring the couple’s vision to life. A planner is involved with the overall organization of the wedding and works as an advocate for the couple. A planner is responsible for ensuring that the theme and colour palette of the wedding is reflected throughout the celebration – beginning with the style of the invitations, to the ceremony and reception flowers, the place settings at each table, the music, the food, and the wedding dress. Moreover, they compile the overall logistics: they act as a liaison between you, the venue, and all your suppliers, sort out the finer details, and compile a realistic itinerary for the entire day. Most importantly, your wedding planner’s first responsibility is to the two of you. They will be onsite on your wedding day, acting on your behalf to look after every detail from start to finish!
One of the main reasons couples hire By Blythe Events is for the peace of mind they will have throughout their planning journey and on their wedding day. You will be able to relax and enjoy your wedding day knowing that your wedding planner – who has been working alongside you each and every step of the way – is there to manage every last detail, and to ensure all of your vendors are working together in harmony to create an incredible wedding celebration just for you!
Where a venue coordinator is responsible for coordinating details regarding your actual event at the venue itself; your wedding planner is responsible for managing ALL the details of your entire wedding. Of course, there’s no question that venue coordinators play a valuable role in the industry and having one as part of your wedding package is a real bonus. However, when making a decision, it’s important that you don’t expect them to fulfil the role of a planner. It’s only fair to them – and to you!