Professional Wedding Coordinator vs. Location Catering Manager or Coordinator
Recently I have found that a number of location sites/reception and wedding venues and some catering companies are offering coordination services or a “coordinator.” I just tried to get on a local venue’s preferred vendor list and they told me “no” saying it was a conflict of interest because they offer coordinators in their packages. But there is a big difference between what I offer and what they offer in terms of “coordination.” Let me explain the difference between a venue coordinator and hiring a professional wedding coordinator.
A catering manager or event coordinator is typically employed by the venue and they specialize in the aspects that they offer for example food, beverage hotel rooms and the location. A professional wedding coordinator is employed by You and and is your personal liaison between you and the vendors and will work with you planning all aspects of your wedding not just the ceremony and reception. Here are some examples of the differences:
Catering Manager/Event Coordinator - Usually they are at the venue on your wedding day and often depart shortly after the first course is served.
Details your event banquet order and contract for the venue.
Sets up your tasting and meeting with the chef.
Creates a layout of the room for you.
Acts as the on-site liaison between you/your wedding planner and other vendors.
Oversee the set up of the ceremony and reception rooms, food and any other items provided by the venue.
Professional Wedding Planner - Usually works with you on all planning stages of your wedding not just your ceremony and location. They are your personal advocate and always have your best interest in mind.
Create a comprehensive time line of the day for you, your bridal party and all your vendors (i.e. DJ, Photographer etc.)
Be available for etiquette questions, suggestions, concerns.
Creates a budget, payment schedule for your vendors and a “to do” time line.
Helps negotiate services from other vendors for you and works with you to create the day you always imagined.
Will research all your vendors to make sure they fit with your style and budget instead of just handing you a list.
Schedules all your vendor appointments and will attend some of those with you.
Assist with decor and design ideas.
Will help you assemble your invitations and package your favors.
Usually only does one wedding per day and will have all their attention dedicated to just you and your wedding.
Will have an emergency kit for all those last minute needs or forgetful moments.
When planning and event as big as a wedding you need both. You need to have a great, proactive, helpful venue manager/catering manager to help you manage the venue aspects, but you will need a professional wedding coordinator working for you to get through the entire planning process and ensure every detail is met right up to the minute you leave for your honeymoon!
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