Thinking about asking your Aunt Sue to be your coordinator? You might want to take a moment to consider what that really means before moving forward.
Many venues require couples to hire day-of coordinators for their wedding, and honestly, when we were planning our big day, I also wondered, Why do we even need one? It wasn’t long before I realized how invaluable our coordinator was—not just on the wedding day but throughout the months leading up to it. Unfortunately, not every couple has the same experience, especially those who think a family member or friend can step into this role seamlessly (one of the reasons why I decided to become a wedding coordinator myself).
When it comes to coordinating, there’s far more involved than meets the eye. You might have a well-organized person in your life who seems like the perfect fit, but this decision often leads to unintended stress and complications. Here are three main reasons we strongly recommend reconsidering this approach:
Let Them Be a Guest First and Foremost
If your loved one means that much to you, they should spend the day celebrating your marriage, not working. It’s easy for family or friends to get distracted at the wedding, especially if they know many of the guests. You want them to be fully present, not juggling schedules and troubleshooting issues.
No Strings Attached with a Professional
When you hire a coordinator, the relationship is professional, and communication is straightforward. If something isn’t to your liking, you can voice your concerns without worrying about hurt feelings. On the other hand, asking a family member could create tension, as you might feel hesitant to give honest feedback, and they may feel overburdened. You don’t want your wedding to become about managing family dynamics instead of focusing on you and your fiancé.
It’s More Than Just Setting Up Decorations
A great coordinator does much more than arrange your décor. They communicate with all your vendors, ensure your vision comes to life, keep everything on schedule, and handle any unexpected issues. You need someone reliable and experienced to manage these responsibilities so you can fully enjoy your special day.
That said, there are times when asking a loved one to coordinate makes sense. For example, if you’re having a casual backyard wedding or an intimate gathering and you’re not overly concerned with the finer details, this could be a wonderful way to save money and involve someone you trust.
The Bottom Line
Your wedding day should be about celebrating your love and creating lasting memories—not stressing over logistics or potential mishaps. While it might be tempting to save money by asking a loved one to help, it’s crucial to consider the potential challenges. A professional coordinator can ease your stress, ensure everything runs smoothly, and allow your family and friends to enjoy the day with you. Whether you choose a professional or a trusted friend depends on your wedding vision, but remember: a smooth, joyful day is always worth the investment.
Comments