The Difference Between a Wedding Planner and a Venue Coordinator

What many couples don’t realize is that there is a big difference between a wedding planner and a venue coordinator. Many brides think that they don’t need a wedding planner because they have a wedding coordinator at their venue that will take care of things for them. Yes… details pertaining to the venue.

A wedding planner works for their client, you. They have your best interests at heart. They will be with you from the beginning of the planning process, up until the day of the wedding. They are in constant communication either by e-mail or phone. They will recommend the best vendors for your wedding. They are your designer, manager, financial advisor, and personal assistant among other things. Their loyalty is with you their client. They will be hands on to assist you in any capacity necessary.

Venue coordinators are employed by the venue. They are the experts on the services of that venue. Any concerns you may have regarding the venue should be directed to your venue coordinator. Employees sometimes move on to other positions. This is also true in the event industry. This happened to one of my brides this past summer. The coordinator who she had been working with at the venue moved on and was replaced by a very nice lady who then formed a relationship with my bride over the details of her wedding. I also met with the venue coordinator and my bride to discuss final details. Wonderful right…. Well about three weeks before the wedding I received an e-mail from my bride informing me that the venue coordinator would be away on vacation and that a new coordinator would be assigned for her wedding. My bride was disappointed because she was attached to the woman she had been dealing with for so long. However, she felt better knowing that I was there for her and would make sure everything went smoothly. We did meet with the replacement coordinator to make sure they were on top of everything regarding the venue.

A wedding planner is the conductor of your wedding day symphony. The vendors such as the DJ, Photographer, Floral Designer and Venue Coordinator are the instruments in your symphony. Wouldn’t you want to hire a professionally trained conductor to lead your symphony of instruments? Everyone has value for his or her talents and skills. Just as the venue coordinator is important to inform you about the services and functions of their facility. A wedding planner makes sure you, their client are well taken care of the day you are married.

Happy Planning!

Till Next Time
Tracey