It’s not uncommon for an engaged couple to think to themselves: “We don’t NEED a certified wedding planner. We’ll just hire a venue coordinator – they’re basically the same thing anyways!”
These professions are frequently mistaken as being synonymous. But the fact is, they are worlds apart! Yes, they may share some commonalities, but the services they can provide clients are drastically different.
Let’s walk you through the difference between an onsite venue coordinator and a certified independent wedding planner.
WHO IS A VENUE COORDINATOR?
A venue coordinator works for the venue itself. They may also be referred to as a “wedding coordinator” or a “wedding manager”. They’re the team member responsible for being the main point of contact with the venue. Frequently, the venue coordinator is most often associated with the venue’s Catering or Sales team.
In a nutshell, they can help a couple with the decisions being made in relation to the venue itself. Some examples can include:
Menu selections
Dining/table setup
Final guest counts
Assisting with venue décor, setup, etc.
Assisting with AV equipment
Managing venue-related timelines and schedules
Collection of payment for venue services
A venue coordinator can be a very big help when it comes to all things pertaining to the venue but for couples looking for professional assistance with their special day, there’s only so much that a venue coordinator is going to be able to do.
This is namely because their job duties STOP the moment it gets to anything beyond the venue.
Now let’s examine some of the duties and roles of an independent certified wedding planner.
WHO IS A WEDDING PLANNER?
A certified wedding planner is a planning industry professional who (ideally) has earned their wedding planner certification. They’ve gained invaluable schooling and training, and are considered to be experts in the world of wedding organization.
That’s our specific role at Franomoevents!
We assist clients with planning and executing their wedding day. But this is a major simplification! In reality, the wedding planning process is a long, extensive endeavor. A wedding planner’s tasks and responsibilities go far beyond what occurs on the day of the event itself.
Our job as a wedding planner begins long before the big day!
But to give you an idea, here are a handful of regular tasks we will help you take care of:
☑️Having an initial consultation with the client
☑️Determining the client’s budget, working within it, helping to lower costs and save money, etc.
☑️Researching and securing vendors and suppliers (i.e. florists, makeup artists, hair stylists, caterers, DJs, etc.)
☑️Helping the bride find her perfect dress
☑️Assisting with event décor, or securing a trained event decorator
☑️Handling payments and making sure deadlines are met with vendors, suppliers, the venue, etc.
☑️Organizing a wedding and/or dinner rehearsal, if requested
☑️Making sure everything runs smoothly and stays on-schedule on the big day
And much more!
When it comes to putting together a wedding, a certified planner can assist clients with practically anything! It really depends on the client’s needs and budget.
Our job at Franomoevents is to take the guesswork out of the process, and make your wedding planning process as seamless and smooth as possible!
Book us today by sending us a message. You also get free 100 chairs covers on us!
