Do you need a wedding coordinator?
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Some couples thrive on planning and are happy to take charge of their own wedding organisation – or delegate jobs to the bridal party.
But more and more to-be-weds are open to the idea of a wedding planner…
Here at YSW we talk to newlyweds a lot and we must admit, one of the most popular topics for reflection is wedmin – whether that’s chatting to a couple who
can’t thank their wedding planner enough for finding a niche venue/saving the day/something else amazing, or catching up with a burned-out duo who DIY-ed the most beautiful celebration but found it ever-so-stressful and, actually, admit they could have done with an expert on side.
Enter the wedding planner
“Deciding whether or not to hire a planner depends on the couple’s situation,” advises Emma Matthews of Timeless White, a company that helps organise luxurious destination weddings, intimate elopements and everything in between.
“For tented weddings, for example, it’s highly recommended due to the additional logistics, complexities and risks.
“Likewise, weddings with intricate set-ups can also greatly benefit to ensure everything runs smoothly.
“Sometimes family dynamics can add stress and a planner can help alleviate some of those concerns.”
That said, there need not be a grand or specific reason for hiring help.
It might just be that your busy life has no space for additional commitments or the thought of dealing with lots of vendors is your idea of a logistical nightmare.
“We’re here to liaise with suppliers on behalf of the couple and ensure everything runs to time and plan.
“We are a point of contact for the bridal party, guests and suppliers,” confirms Roni Hyslop of event management company All Wrapped Up Events Scotland.
What’s on offer?
All Wrapped Up offers a range of packages but Roni says that most couples create their own.
“Our all-inclusive packages cover everything from our in-house team – catering, bar, furniture, floristry, piper, ceilidh band… The list goes on!
“Meanwhile, DIY couples love our weekend coordination package where we assist in the set-up and derigging of furniture and decor.
“It means they don’t have to worry about anything. There’s no right or wrong time to get in touch and from your first consultation, you’ll know whether hiring a coordinator is the right decision,” explains Roni.
If it’s a yes, you’ll want to do a deep dive into the packages available but, well-versed in making life easier for to-be-weds, your potential coordinator will guide you.
At The Wedding Guru – Oskar, this is taken care of during a commitment-free discovery call.
“We ask a lot of questions about their vision, challenges thus far, dreams and desires as well as the non-negotiable and most important factors in the wedding,” explains lead wedding planner Oskar Gilchrist-Grodnicki.
For time-poor couples he recommends Full Wedding Planning, which covers research, shortlisting and liaison on all aspects of your day.
Part Wedding Planning is for those who want expertise, guidance and support while contributing creatively themselves.
“We identify the areas that don’t give them joy and they happily offload to us while taking care of the things they do enjoy.
“We catch up quarterly and continuously support through instant messenger.”
Meanwhile On-the-day Coordination gives you two wedding gurus from morning prep until first dance… Perfect if you want to do all the wedmin yourself, then
really focus on enjoying the fruits of your labour stress-free!
Simply seeking some reassurance that the day will run smoothly?
There’s a package for that too – All Wrapped Up’s bridal bootcamps.
“They can be used at the beginning of planning; midway to assure you you’re on the right track, or at the end to check your timelines and flag up any missed but vital details.
“We spend up to three hours chatting all things wedding – the time is yours and we go with the flow,” says Roni.
Busting the myths
Tell someone you’re thinking of hiring a planner and the chances are they’ll assume you’re very fancy.
As such, many couples don’t look into it because they reckon it’s too expensive.
But actually it’s quite the opposite – and value packed.
At Timeless White, for example, Emma’s team spends a massive 160 hours planning the average wedding!
“Aside from catering, no other vendor puts in the same amount of time and effort,” she confirms.
“So, when you’re making your decision it’s worth comparing the cost of planning services with others who may allocate less time to your wedding and its follow-ups.”
Not to mention, can you put a price on your peace of mind?
Whether it’s for supplier recommendations or having a go-to person for last-minute issues, a coordinator can take a massive load off you as you get wedding ready.
“They’ve spent years curating a list of trusted colleagues to ensure you have the best day possible,” smiles Roni.
Considering a hotel venue?
Spoiler alert: You’ll probably get a wedding expert as part of your package!
Kirsty Grant, senior wedding and events coordinator at Lochside House Hotel & Spa tells us how it works…
“We try our best to help with each wedding from the first show round to the celebration itself.
“We know our venue like the back of our hand so take stress and hassle away from to-be-weds – that means contacting suppliers, organising the running order, being the master of ceremonies and sometimes even dressing the bride on the day!
“You get as much or as little help as you like.
“I’d never impose on a couple but always reassure them that we’re here if they need anything.
“We keep in touch with meetings and guidance as standard through recommendations and a checklist.
“And for those who need more support, we’re only a call or email away – you can even have a weekly meeting if you feel you need it.
“Our team builds great relationships and on the day our couples feel relaxed because they know us and have confidence that we’ll make their wedding the best.”
are you looking for a wedding coordinator?
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