"Classic, the first blog post the coordinator writes about is if I need a coordinator..."
I understand that those are probably your thoughts right now. Yes, this is my first blog and what else would you expect? So why I am doing this? I met an amazing photographer at a social event for wedding pros and she discussed the importance of blogging. Not only does it help me interact with other wedding vendors and people getting married, but it is a great way for me to improve my writing skills and spill my thoughts out on paper (or in this case, online).
Hi, I am Darion. You can call me the Wedding Boss. Thank you Cassie for coining that term. My job is to manage all aspects of my clients wedding day so that they can enjoy every single moment. Not only am I a wedding boss, but I am a US Navy Veteran, a mother to an incredibly feisty two year-old, and a student (soon to be graduate). You probably have read all of that in my "About" section on my website but here it is again in case you missed it. I am so proud of myself for coming this far in the industry and I don't intend on stopping! I manage all aspects of my business on my own. I designed my brand, configured my website, created and manage my social media presence, do all administrative work, and I attend all weddings I book as the Lead Coordinator. Most people would say I am the "hands on" type. I do my best to give my business the attention it needs all while maintaining a healthy social life, a wild child, and somehow managing to find personal time every now and then. I'll share another post with more about how I manage my business and personal life soon, but let's get back on topic here.
So, do you really need a coordinator for your big day? I say YES x1000 and so would all other wedding professionals. One of the first steps in planning your wedding is creating a budget. You factor in the estimated number of guests you will invite, the vendors you will want to hire, and how over the top you want your special day to be. Many people don't consider adding a coordinator to their budget. The DIY'ers especially don't. That is okay if you plan on spending a ton of time and money on planning just to enjoy a stressful wedding day (sorry had to say it, but it's true).
I commonly see the decision to make a mother, a sibling or aunt, or a bestie the "day of coordinator." That was so nice of you to trust them with such a huge role, but just a friendly word of advice, they will not get to enjoy your big day because they will be doing all of the smalls things and the wedding will suddenly be over. Yes, it happens a lot quicker that you'd think. You arrive, hair and makeup begins, first look, photos, ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, reception, and suddenly your grand exit happens. It's that quick. Ask any pro, they'll say the same thing.
It is crucial to budget for your coordinator! You can absolutely plan your own wedding still. I actually encourage that. I am not a wedding planner and I do not desire to be one. I enjoy creating a relationship with my clients so I can get to know their wedding day vision and make sure we are a great fit for each other. I love offering advice and resources while they plan but I am not here to be a full planner. As a day of coordinator I act as their voice. I communicate with their vendors, discuss details with their venue, and interact with their family and guests. Here are some of the perks of hiring a coordinator:
I design your timeline
I communicate with your vendors
I am the main point of contact on wedding day
I ensure we get everything completed that's on your timeline with necessary adjustments on the day of (we are human, things happen.)
I show vendors where to set up and ensure they're prepared to do what you contracted them for
I pay vendors on your behalf
I tip vendors on your behalf
I dissolve an issues that may arise (people act extra fiery at weddings for some reason, probably the alcohol)
I make sure that you and your partner are watered and fed on your wedding day
I stay until the last guest leaves and I make sure your personal items including decor, gifts, left over food, your cake, and alcohol make it home with the right people
There are a million other things I do for my clients it all just depends on their needs. I always remind others that every wedding is different. Different people, different budget, different vision, and different places. I am here to cater to all of those things. Now that you've glanced over this post and see the importance of hiring a professional coordinator, are you planning on hiring a coordinator?
Thanks for reading! I am excited for this new journey and hope you are too!
Written by: Darion Johnson
7/21/21