When you’re planning a wedding, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether to avail of a full coordination service or an on-the-day (OTD) coordinator. Both services provide invaluable assistance, but they cater to different needs and stages of the planning process. Understanding the scope and benefits of each can help you decide which service aligns best with your wedding goals. And we’re here to help, so keep reading, bride-to-be!
Take it from the name–full coordination is the most thorough service available for couples who want extensive support throughout their wedding planning journey. This typically involves a wedding planner who works with you from the moment you start planning your event until the last guest leaves the reception. Said planner essentially becomes your partner in decision-making and is around to offer expert advice and manage all the details that make up your special day.
With full coordination, your planner takes the lead in understanding your vision and making it a reality. They handle everything from coordinating with the venue and vendors you chose, to managing the budget you allotted. They also oversee the design and décor of the event and help create a cohesive look that reflects your preferred style and theme.
Moreover, full coordination includes creating a detailed timeline that organizes all (and we mean, all) aspects of your wedding day and even the days leading up to it. The planner ensures that everyone involved, from vendors to the bridal party, are in sync and know exactly what to do and when to do it. Regular meetings and updates from your planner keep you in the loop and reassure you that everything is on track.
On the flipside, an on-the-day coordination service is best for couples who want to take an active role in planning their wedding but need professional assistance on the actual day to ensure everything runs smoothly. This service kicks in only a few weeks before the wedding day, when the OTD coordinator reviews all the plans you’ve made to familiarize themselves with every detail.
The OTD coordinator’s primary role is to manage the wedding day logistics. They oversee the vendors and make sure that they deliver and set up everything as you’ve planned, from floral arrangements to the audio-visual setup. They also manage the timeline, keeping the ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, and other activities on schedule.
Solving problems is one of the most important roles of an OTD coordinator. Whether a bouquet goes missing or the food service is delayed, the planner takes care of these problems quickly and effectively. In order to keep everyone where they need to be during the event, they also play a crucial part in controlling the crowd flow. They also play a key role in managing the flow of guests and ensures that everyone is where they need to be throughout the event.
Ultimately, it will depend on your specific needs. If you want complete support from the beginning to the end and prefer not to manage the complex details like planning and vendor coordination, full coordination is the right choice. It’s perfect for those who want a professional to handle everything and make all the decisions.
On the other hand, if you’re keen on planning your wedding but need help only on the actual day, OTD coordination is a great option. This service lets you be a guest at your own wedding, all while knowing that a professional is making sure everything runs smoothly.
Both full coordination and OTD coordination provide essential services that help make your wedding day beautiful and stress-free. Your choice will mostly depend on how involved you want to be in the planning and where you feel you need the most support.
It’s also important to remember that not all Full or OTD Coordination services are the same, so be sure to read the contract carefully and discuss the details with your coordinator.
Got more questions, bride-to-be? Leave them below and we’ll get back to you!