As a DIY Bride, I struggled to decide if I should hire a day-of-coordinator for the big day. I tried my best to save money on my wedding including sourcing items from Amazon and even renting uplighting for a third of the cost of local vendors. I found it hard to find feedback from other brides so I thought I’d outline my experience for any one else planning their own wedding!
Do you need a DIY coordinator?
Yes! If you can afford it in your budget, I highly recommend it. Many people underestimate the time and effort it takes to set up decor, direct vendors, and manage the schedule. If you plan on handling all the set up, it will likely take a long time when you still have to get hair and makeup and other day of tasks done. The other option is designating a family member or friend. This option can work, but there’s a catch. Whoever you designate to coordinate on you behalf will be working, not celebrating and enjoying with the rest of the family and friends. That can take away from them enjoying their experience of celebrating you.
How I found my Day of Coordinator
I found my Day-of coordinator via referral. I lucked up and my photographer knew someone that did some part-time event planning. He connected us and we had a brief discussion of the help I needed. She also provided a brief of the services she offered.
How much did it Cost?
Our coordinator charged $850. That may seem a little high when WeddingWire lists the national average for wedding planning between $1,000-$2,500 but we’re located in a very HCOL area. I received two other quotes from day of coordinators I found online: one for $1,400 and the other for $1,800.
What services were included
My day-of coordinator provided a long list of services. There was also some wiggle room for specific tasks that I needed to be included in what was offered.
Services included:
- Creating the client’s wedding timeline
- Review seating charts, ceremony & reception venue contact information, the
client’s personal checklist, etc. - Serve as main point of contact (POC) for the client, vendors, guests, & bridal
party - Resolve conflicts, issues &/or unexpected situations for all parties involved
- Setup all decor provided by client
- I.e. Return all personal belongings, decor, & items to the bridal
suite, ensure all tips are handed to the designated vendors, etc. - Manage all vendor logistics including inventory, arrival & departure times, & task lists
What DIY Decor did Day-of Coordinator Set-up
When we arrived to the bridal suite, she already had put pre-ordered refreshments and Champagne set up. My day of coordinator also put up our DIY signage (Welcome, unplugged, bar) and our DIY uplighting. She also set up our neon sign backdrop. She checked all the table settings and texted me throughout the day if any questions came up.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a day of coordinator can take a significant amount of stress off of the wedding day. It allows the bride, friends, and family and to enjoy the day without having to worry about how everything gets done. sit back, and enjoy your day!
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