Wedding Coordinator

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Wedding coordinator?
   I've studied Interior Design and am now working in my brothers business who designs cakes and I am in the wedding side of the business. I started just to help him out and I've been there for nearly two years. I really didn't think I would love it this much. I've always been girly when it comes to weddings and I really want to get into the industry full on. Can anyone please give me some advise on how you or anybody you know who is a wedding coordinator etc please let me know how to get started?

   • ANSWER:
     The cool thing about a job like that is that you can do it however you want to do it - there's no need to go and do an internship or anything; you just go with your own ideas.

     Read bridal magazines and visit trade shows to get ideas and to learn about the industry. Then just launch your own business. Start by networking to get yourself some clients! Talk to everyone you meet, use online communities to advertise your services, get friends to tell their friends, and so on. Once you've done a few weddings succesfully, those people will refer you to their friends, etc.

     The good thing about starting up a business such as this is that you need not invest very much money to start with. You can work from home, and you will probably only need to get some business cards printed and maybe a seperate phone line installed, and that's it.

     The other good thing about it is that initially, you probably won't be able to generate enough business to support yourself, but you can easily work part-time at another job as the hours here can be as flexible as you want.

     When you start getting busy, make sure you see an accountant to help with that side of the business.

2. QUESTION:
   Wedding Coordinator???
   what would it b more of...

   Business, Management & Administration

   Hospitality & Tourism

   or

   Human Services???

   (im looking on a career site trying to see which colleges would b best to become a wedding coordinator)

   • ANSWER:
     down too, Business, Management & Administration and human services

     But i would go with Business, Management & Administration, because you'll be running your own business, and you'll have to manage it. It does fall into human services, but Business, Management & Administration is more specific.

     Good Luck!

3. QUESTION:
   What is the average wedding coordinator cost for 50 person or smaller wedding?
   Looking to find an average cost for a wedding coordinator to arrange a relatively small wedding (50 guests and under).

   • ANSWER:
     The wedding planner can range from 500 dollars to 3000 depending on their experience and what they will be responsible for. They usually charge either by the hour, by the percentage total of wedding or a flat fee. Whatever the cost, they are well worth it. A good wedding planner though expensive may save you money, as they will compare vendors etc.

4. QUESTION:
   How do you become a wedding coordinator/planner?
   How do you become a wedding planner/coordinator?

   I have actually wanted to do this for a very long time, but I have never known how, plus the urge is even stronger now that I am planning my own.

   • ANSWER:
     The wedding planning institute offers an online course and also offers courses at some local community colleges. Check out their website.

5. QUESTION:
   How much should I tip my wedding coordinator?
   How much should I tip my wedding coordinator? She is the manager of the hall I am having my reception at. She helped me choose the food, cake and other details for the ceremony. I've read 15-20%, but that would be almost 2K which seems like to much.

   • ANSWER:
     She is not considered a wedding coordinator as she is not an outside wedding vendor she is a manager of the hall. She gets paid a commission and may also get an hourly fee as well. She actually was just helping you with the selections that the venue she works for offers. You do not have to pay her 15%-20% that is way out of line. You can offer her a small amount if you feel you should do it but it is not even necessary.

     I was a Banquet Manager and was paid both hourly and commission.

6. QUESTION:
   What does a wedding coordinator charge for one day?
   My fiance and I were discussing the possibility of hiring a wedding coordinator for our wedding day. We are doing all the leg work, we just need him or her to take care of things on the day of our wedding. That way we can focus our attention to just getting married.

   • ANSWER:
     Depending on where you live a "Day Of" coordinator can run 8%-15% of your wedding budget. Now some planners charge by the hour too so be careful when choosing a planner.

7. QUESTION:
   What is the going rate for a Day of Wedding Coordinator?
   What is the normal rate charged by a "Day Of" wedding coordinator. We're doing all of the other arrangements ourselves, but I think we need some profeesional help to make sure everything runs smoothly on the day of the wedding. I live in Virginia Beach, VA.

   I want to start interviewing possible coordinators soon, but am interested in finding out how much they normally run so I have something to base it off of when I talk to them.

   • ANSWER:
     Expect to spend between 0.00 - 1000.00 for a whole day!

     Too much if you ask me for what they do!

8. QUESTION:
   What should I expect going to a Disney Wedding Coordinator meeting?
   My fiance and I are having a wedding at Disney. We're meeting with the coordinator this Saturday (May 21st, 2011), I want to know what should we expect when we go into the meeting? What information do we need to have on hand?

   • ANSWER:
     you should expect to pay a lot!

9. QUESTION:
   What is the average expense for a wedding coordinator?
   I am looking for a wedding coordinator to do everything - look for the place of the ceremony and reception, etc.

   • ANSWER:
     It depends on how much your wedding budget is -- usually the coordinators take a percentage of the overall cost.

     Check out www.theknot.com for lots of resources. If you search their site for "wedding planner," "coordinator," etc., you will turn up articles. They also have a budget planner.

10. QUESTION:
    What responsibilities can I give a friend if Im using her as a wedding coordinator?
    I am planning on using a friend of mine who lives out of state as my wedding coordinator. I'd like her to help with the details of my wedding day to make sure everything is running smoothly. I'm thinking of asking her to help with the decorating details, and our timing... but what other things can she help me with that I wont have time to check on ?

    • ANSWER:
      I had my back fence neighbor as my wedding coordinator for the day of ceremony. I had a box for the ceremony site and she was responsible for taking it to the church and making sure everything was laid out where I wanted it. I had ordered 2 trays those tortila roll sandwiches, so she picked those up from the deli as well as 2 cases of water, so she made sure that there was food and water in the bride's room and the groom's room at the church. She also received the flowers from the florist and passed them out to everyone who was supposed to have flowers.

      I introduced her to my entire wedding party and she was the point of contact for the wedding day. Everyoe went to her instead of asking me a million questions because quite frankly, I did not want to be pulled in a thousand directions on wedding day looking for things that were no longer in its away place at home...because now it was at the wedding venue with people touching and moving stuff. She made sure the ushers had the wedding programs; that the flower girls had petals in their basket; brought the marriage certificate to me to sign; told the organist when I was ready to come down the aisle; made sure the aisle runner was where it belonged and that the groomsmen knew when to pull it down the aisle; etc. Her total work time on the day of the wedding was about 90 minutes.

      It really helped that we met ahead of time and went over my plans for the church in detail. On the wedding day, she was completely in charge. All I had to do was get my hair done, put on a dress, pose for pictures, and get married. It was a great stress relief for me...and my wedding party appreciated not having to do that stuff while they were getting ready or posing for pictures, but they also knew that she was more accessible (and calmer) than the bride, but could move around the venue freely and knew where everything was.

      I also introduced her to all of my vendors. If a problem arose on wedding day (none did), she was to resolve it. If she couldn't resolve it, then it was to escalate to me or my husband.

      The only thing I really regret is that I did not pose for formal photos with her. I forgot to tell the photographer to do that. Grrrr!

11. QUESTION:
    How much do you pay a "Day-Of" Wedding Coordinator?
    She works for a banquet facility that often does weddings, so she has experience. We aren't buddy/buddy - she's my in-laws' neighbor. I was planning on inviting her and her husband to the wedding, but her husband suggested she be our "Day-Of" Coordinator. I need her to oversee the set-up of the vendors at the reception site and be my eyes to make sure everything is perfect. We live in Southwestern Ohio and it's going to be a fall wedding.

    • ANSWER:
      Definitely ask her what she would charge. If she has experience she will probably have a ballpark figure in her head. You may be able to negotiate with her, but check with her. The fee depends on your area and what services are being offered etc. You can check web sites for wedding coordinators in your area and see what the rates are for day of services that may help give you an idea.

      Good luck!

12. QUESTION:
    how much does a day-of coordinator cost, for a wedding?
    I am curious to know how much a day-of wedding coordinator charges, and what, exactly, is their role. Anyone have any suggestions as to companies, where I can hire a day-of coordinator? Thank you!

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    • ANSWER:

13. QUESTION:
    stipends for priest and wedding coordinator at catholic church ?
    Our wedding is in a couple of weeks, it will be a small Catholic chapel wedding and the church knows we're rather poor right now and offered to let us not pay for the location at all if that would be a burden. They were only asking for . I am wondering if we should still give the priest and wedding coordinator a small stipend for their work and how much we should give? thanks!

    • ANSWER:
      i went through that just last night actually, my catholic wedding is coming up dec. 6th (small as well, only 24 guests, reception is dinner and drinks back at our house). It costs us 150$ for the church and priest, 30$ for the premarital books, so the priest asked us for a cheque for 180$, so we gave a cheque for 200$... in retrospect we think we could have given a little more (200$ is only 13% of the initial 150$ if you don't count the books, tips where I live usually run around 15% or a bit more), but it wasn't something we planned in advance... I was trying to look over at my fiance as I was writing the cheque but he wasn't catching my drift lol

      I mean it's a catholic church they really aren't going to say anything no matter what, but really can you not come up with 50$? Churches are old, attendance is down, I personally would feel the need to contribute even a small amount as a token of your appreciation.

      I never usually encourage people to rely on gift money, but you don't think if you give the 50$ that you won't get it back as a gift from someone at the wedding?... or could you ask your parents or something? I Would personally cut out or scale down other things if it hasn't been done already (such as bonbonieres, flowers, etc.) and pay the church.

      Congrats and good luck

14. QUESTION:
    Where can I find a "day of" wedding coordinator in Chicago for a good price?
    Hi everybody! I'm getting marry soon and although I have almost everything ready, I really need a wedding coordinator to make sure that everything runs smoothly in my wedding day. Can you recommend someone professional ,but affordable in Chicago? Thank you.

    • ANSWER:
      Here are some places I found...I'm not sure if they're "affordable" or not, so I'm just going to let you do that part.
      -http://www.lolaeventproductions.com/index.html
      -http://www.eventsworthtoasting.com/
      -http://www.greatestexpectations.com/index.html
      -http://www.janeallenevents.com/home.html
      -http://www.idoevent.com/
      -http://www.allenwilliamsevents.com/
      -http://www.creativespec.com/
      -http://www.engagingeventsbyali.com/
      -http://eventsbyjeanamarie.com/
      -http://www.crimsonrd.com/

15. QUESTION:
    Does a wedding coordinator's certificate make a difference?
    I live in maui,hawaii and I'm planning on getting into a career in weeding plannng and I would like to know which way would be the best way to get started, get my wedding coordinator's certificate or just look for apprenticeship and/or work with a florist, caterer etc just to get to know more about the business? And if I came to you and ask to be an apprentice would my chances be higher if I had a certificate or would it matter? Pls if possible could people in the business answer me back thank you.

    • ANSWER:
      The certificate is just validation about the profession you're in. First hand experience is very valuable and also helps you when you do begin to study...you can relate the textbook to experience. Ask a caterer, florist and/or local coordinators if they would mentor you and you serve as an assistant. This way you can determine whether or not this profession is for you. Test the waters first locally and learn about the business as much as you can ...then look into getting certified. I wish you the absolute best!

16. QUESTION:
    Is there such thing as a wedding coordinator/planner dress code?
    I am about to become an independent wedding coordinator for a church. Beyond appropriate wear for church/weddings, should I wear all black, suit, etc., or does it even matter?

    • ANSWER:
      a wedding co-ordinator for a church is responsible for a lot of things-I would think
      something your comfortable in , like a flowered dress, or I have seen where the wedding party asked for a certain attire, like a business look, etc./ if the wedding party is that interested in how you look according to their thinking, then I would want more money too.

17. QUESTION:
    Is 0 for a "day of" wedding coordinator worth it? I'm having a small wedding - 75 people but live in NYC?
    I booked the officiant, caterer, photographer, etc., but need help with the day of the wedding, since I'll be too busy getting ready to pay attention to the caterer, etc. Is paying someone to be there for 7 hours worth it? Is 800 cheap for a NYC wedding coordinator?

    • ANSWER:
      I would ask 3 of my friends who are highly organized to do the coordinating.

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18. QUESTION:
    Would you pick a harpist or a wedding coordinator?
    I want both but I can only afford one. I need your opinions please They are almost the exact same price.

    I would get a full day of wedding coordinator or a harpist to play at the ceremony for an hour and a half
    Donald - you are so wrong. Day of wedding coordinators are a huge business. Do your research before you act like you know what you are talking about

    • ANSWER:
      I actually would not get either---a friend/cousin/hated aunt can wrangle your guest for you, and do all of that "fun" stuff they actually might enjoy it. and for a harpist really that is nice and all, but a little over the top, and what would your friends think?
      I would take the $$ that you would spend on that and upgrade your hotel room for the honeymoon or if you are flying upgrade your seats to first class. or if going somewhere like hawaii get a double massage on the beach something that you have always wanted to do, but never had the $$ for, this way you will have the memories of that instead of a harpist at the wedding.

19. QUESTION:
    Is hiring a wedding coordinator worth it?
    My wedding is about a year and a half away and it will probably be a medium sized wedding. I'm debating about a wedding coordinator to help. I don't know a lot about the makings of a wedding but I don't have a lot of extra money to spend. So I'm curious on peoples experiences with a coodinator or if you didn't have one did you wish you would have? Thank you.

    • ANSWER:
      Okay, this is really your preference. I am a wedding planner so here is my advice to you if you are on the fence. Before you start making decisions spend a few months educating yourself on weddings. There are tons of books, the internet is wonderful, and talk to your friends who have been there. There are many wonderful wedding planning organizers and websites I recommend GETMARRIED.COM ONEWED.COM These type of sites have many of the tools you will need to learn and do it yourself. The more you know about organizing and planning your wedding will be only to your advantage.Alot of people don't research and view all there options and end up being over charged. Alot of people don't start booking things til around 12 months out, so you have plenty of time to learn and make wise decisions. If you are on a budget may I suggest CRAIGSLIST.COM you can find many wedding vendors providing coupons and discounts on here and there are just plenty of them in one place. http://classifieds.weddingbee.com/ here you will be able to find wedding items from designer dresses to table runners that people bought and didn't need or bought and used once for there wedding and can get them for a steal.

      -- As for using a wedding planner, if you have a very busy schedule, alot of commitments, or simple don't want to deal with the sometimes stress of planning a wedding then hiring one wouldn't be a bad idea. To hire a wedding planner to help plan ur whole wedding it usually costs between 8%-10% of ur general wedding budget. What I would recommend to any brides (considering I did it and that is how I got into the business) is do your research, include ur bridal party to help plan and DIY anything you want to save money on if you are on a tight budget, but save you and all your loved ones the stress on the day of your wedding, Hire a Day-Of-Wedding-Planner. They just handle everything on your wedding day, all the problems, the punctuality, the scheduling. Let your loved ones be guests to your wedding and enjoy it, don't ask them to run the show. This is very hectis and a large task and when you are making sure things happen as they are suppost to you will miss out on the important details, like being with you to give you a good luck kiss or catching the great one chance moment of the teary-eyed smile and eye contact right as you turn to walk down the aisle. A Day of coordinator can come very cheap. I work in St. Louis and They can be as low as 0 for the whole day upto 14 hours of whatever you tell them to take care of. I hope this helps and good luck to you. Congratulations.

      Final Note- Remember anything that has the word "Wedding" or "Bridal" will be probably astronomically priced. A limo for a prom night for 4 hours will cost 0 but the same thing for a wedding will run you almost 0. So do plenty of research. RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH! Try and find what you are looking for from a different place that doesn't specialize in wedding or bridal but parties and events whatever you are looking for will probably be cheaper. Internet shopping will save you a fair amount of money. EBAY.com has always been my friend. Great personalized bridal party gifts, crinoline, favors, decorations, anything you need.

20. QUESTION:
    How much to pay a wedding coordinator?
    How much should a pay a wedding coordinator? They are friends of the family but will assist me in making alot of my wedding decorations and securing my plans. I am coordinating my own wedding. And I know they will say no charge. But I want to give them something.

    • ANSWER:
      No need for money...give them a special gift. There has to be some kind of running joke, since they have been with you throughout the process. Make them a gift yourself, a photo album maybe, or buy them something small. They will appreciate that more than money.

21. QUESTION:
    Are you supposed to tip your wedding coordinator?
    Is there a rule of thumb about tipping wedding coordinators?
    My mother's getting married, small ceremony, beach in Maui, and it's only like 6 of us, an archway, flowers, and a preacher and is about ,500 this is INCLUDING her (coordinator) fee/ commission. My mom says she thinks she's supposed to tip her 10% of that.
    I think she's wrong.
    So ARE you even supposed to tip them, and if so how much?

    • ANSWER:
      If your coordinator is an independent coordinator and works for herself, no tip is necessary. Her fee is sure to cover everything.

22. QUESTION:
    Anyone know a good wedding coordinator in the Dominican Republic? I cannot get anyone to email me back!?
    I have emailed a ton of so called "wedding coordinators" in the Dominican Republic (prefer Punta Cana) and NO-ONE has emailed me back. Resorts charge too much for ceremonies so I thought I would use an outside vendor. Very small symbolic ceremony for two people. Anyone know someone that is legit and efficient that can help? Thanks!

    • ANSWER:
      Trying to get ANYONE from the Caribbean to respond to e-mail inquiries is frustrating and nearly impossible.. doesn't matter if you are buying a house.. asking about facilities or trying to get a wedding coordinator.. Even if you hopped on a plane and went there in person, it wouldn't change too much.. in the 3rd world it's common for people to keep their bookings IN PENCIL and the last booking will be erased so they can put the next one in its place.. I've seen this done too many times and nothing is more frustrating than having a Doctor's or Dentist's appointment and when you show up at the appropriate you find out someone else has your time booked because they were the LAST PERSON to book the time and your name was erased long before.

      If you want to be sure you are getting the booking you want you almost have to PAY FOR IT by going through the hotel.. trying to save money in the Caribbean by doing your own thing is false economy and can end up costing you time and money and frustration.

      If you don't want to go through the hotel for your wedding planning then you are pretty much on your own. It's not like in AmeriKa.. the Caribbean operates on a whole different mind set.

23. QUESTION:
    I would like to hire a personal wedding coordinator?
    Where I come from, I am not able to find any wedding coordinator in my country(PNG) so I would like to know if its possible to hire one from overseas maybe a private one that can assist me organize my wedding. Or if someone can give me information of someone who is willing to assist preferably in Australia.
    Thanks....

    • ANSWER:
      Living in PNG an Australian (or US for that matter) wedding coordinator would be of no use. Their job is to assist in the hiring of vendors and no wc in Australia will have any idea of what is available in PNG.

      Your best bet is to ask people who have recently married in your town/city what they could recommend.

24. QUESTION:
    How much should a wedding coordinator cost?
    My budget was 000, but the coordinator wants 00. Is this normal?

    I've done most of the leg work, like picking the place, photographer, dresses, tuxes, organist, etc.

    I have the florist, caterer (almost done), DJ and cake. I just need someone to make sure it all falls together.

    • ANSWER:
      You are being ripped off. You have already done all the leg work, you should not be charged that price. I would advise that you tell your coordinator to take a hike and not spend one penny.

      If you have already put everything together and just basically want a supervisor on your wedding day to see it is all done correctly, assign the task to a friend you trust. Just relay to that person exactly how you need everything to come together, and they should have no problem.

      When you hire a planner, they have a better idea of exactly how things should come together, so you need them, or someone working for them, that knows whats going on to coordinate. But you did the planning, you put it all together, you know exactly what you want. This is your vision. You can relay that vision to a friend just as easy as you can to a coordinator who, having not been involved in the planning, will need you to hold their hand and explain everything to them anyway.

      Save your 00 dollars to start your new life with your husband.

25. QUESTION:
    As a bride, what do you look for in a wedding coordinator?
    Ok, ladies...I'm becoming a wedding coordinator, and I wanted to know what are the things that would definitely make you go with a particular wedding coordinator? What are some things you look for when searching for a wedding coordinator? Does A LOT of experience matter,price, or just the way they go about preparing your wedding, or everything? Please let me know, because it would be great!!

    • ANSWER:
      I hired a coordinator. I looked for the following things:

      1. experience. and proof of it. I wanted to see weddings they had done and be able to talk to the brides in those weddings to get their reaction. And I wanted to see more than 10 weddings. If the themes/feelings/attention to detail wasn't along the lines of what I wanted, then I knew they weren't the right planner for me.

      2. a back up plan. I wanted to know my planner had a partner or two that could take over if something happened on our wedding day (flat tire, sickness, whatever).

      3. honesty. I HATED sales talk, especially the crap about calling anytime day or night, they will always pick up. Really, me calling you every day at 3 am was acceptable? And they can really predict that they wouldn't be on the line to another bride when I call? If they don't really mean it, then they shouldn't say it.

      4. negotiation skills. I wanted to see that they could get great deals for me- better than I could get on my own. And not just on "their" suppliers, but on any supplier I chose.

      5. professionalism. Calm demeanor, good business skills. At the end of the day, they were going to plan my wedding. The florist was going to do the flowers; the stationery expert the invites, programs, menus, etc.; the baker was making the cake. I wanted someone who could pull it all together and be incredibly organized.

      Price had nothing to do with it. All coordinators I have come across charged between 15% and 20% of the wedding budget.

26. QUESTION:
    Different wedding coordinator for hotel?
    I called the hotel where our reception will be for our up coming wedding in January and they said the wedding coordinator that was handling our wedding is not their anymore. Are they not suppose to call and let there clients know? I had some questions and the women whom I spoke with (the secretary) she answered all my questions and apologized for the inconvenience.It has been 2 weeks and still no one has called and introduced themselves or anything. Our wedding is still in their records, should I be worried? We have everything going as planned and do not want anything to mess things up for that day. Thanks for reading and responding.

    • ANSWER:
      At places like hotels and such, you can't expect much from their wedding coordinators. That's why actual wedding coordinators are able to make a pretty penny these days. Typically, hotel wedding coordinators are basically glorified sales reps for the venue.

      I would call them up and ask that the person taking over your wedding give you call to go over all the details. Or ask to arrange a meeting with them face to face. They most definitely should extend that courtesy to you.

      Where can I find a wedding facility that would allow me to choose my own outside caterer?

      Every wedding venue I've been to, they want me to use their own exclusive caterer. I cannot because of cultural reasons and it is frustrating. I did find one venue that would allow me to use any caterer of my choice, but the rental fee is much pricier and they charge an extra fee for using an outside caterer. Any websites I can look that will screen out by state?The main reason venues require their own caterer used is for insurance reasons, it is considerably more risky for them to use and outside caterer, have something go...

      Continue...

      While the venue should have made every attempt to call all their clients to notify them of the change, I'm not surprised they didn't, which is awful.

      Be a little more assertive, and hopefully you'll get what you deserve.

      EDIT: I also wanted to add that we're getting married at a hotel as well, and our "wedding coordinator" I found out, was just a sales rep assigned to our event, and she's the biggest idiot I've ever met. We correspond mostly through e-mail because it's a destination wedding, and she never answers my questions. It's so bizarre. She's awful at her job, and I'm pretty sure she's about 18 and had no event experience before she was hired. Unfortunately, this is how it as at most venues.

27. QUESTION:
    Do I have to tip my wedding coordinator and servers if gratutity is already included in cost?
    My reception contract tacks on a 21% gratuity but I have been told by other brides that I still have to tip servers and the provided wedding coodinator on top of that extra ,000 in my bill!

    • ANSWER:
      Here's the thing: it sounds like you may not be informed of who gets what and on which contract.

      You say that the contract with gratuity included is the reception contract. Typically this includes the reception hall host, place settings, hall rental, and food prep & serving.

      Sometimes, servers are hired separately. Read your contract to be sure!

      The same goes with "provided wedding coordinator". Their services may be provided, however the tip would not be covered by the reception contract money.

      What this all boils down to, is that you need straight talk from the person who provided you with the contract in the first place. Ask, in plain English (and politely!), if the gratuity includes the serving staff and coordinator.

      Best of luck, best wishes on a happy & prosperous marriage.

28. QUESTION:
    does one add the wedding coordinator name to the wedding program?
    If so, does it go along with the "wedding party" list, or somewhere else?
    Who else to include in the program?

    • ANSWER:
      As a mother of the bride since April of this year, we spent many hours listing the wedding party. And no we did not include the coordinator. She/he is a paid contractor like tux rentals and wedding cake. You do not want to list all them and I feel it is not necessary to include her/him. We did however list a memorial of those we lost recently that were near and dear to us. Just a thought for you.

29. QUESTION:
    how much to pay amateur wedding coordinator?
    I know someone that teaches a wedding planner class. She is going to recommend 2 ladies to come help me day-of wedding to make sure everything is in place and everything is on schedule. I took her class...so I am certified in wedding planning, but I only do it for fun-not monetarily. I'm sure I can ask her opinion about how much to charge these WP-in-training. But I would love to get your suggestions on how much to charge per hour, per person.

    I need them for 10 total hours, two ladies. How much should I pay them?
    I know I should spend money on a professional wedding planner, but since I am certified myself...I think I've got all the details down to a tee. However, I do need an assistant to be a point of contact between vendors, activities, etc. Plus, the instructor said she would definitely recommend someone that SHE thinks would be fit for the job. And I will be interviewing them to make sure they can be fit for the position.

    Professionals charge approx. per hour...and have a retainer/deposit of 0-175. How much should I pay the novice?

    • ANSWER:
      I wouldn't pay them too much since they are not experience and are not going to be involved in other aspects of preparation prior to the wedding (helping confirm vendor delivery times, planning and coordinating the rehearsal, etc.). Depending on the level of experience and region, you can hire a professional wedding day coordinator starting from 0-1000. So instead of paying them a fee, I'd just give them a gratuity of around 0-150 a piece.

30. QUESTION:
    where can i find a cheap day of wedding coordinator?
    I am attempting to plan a wedding on my own. I am really wanting to hire a day of wedding planner just to take some stress off of the big day. I am on a tight budget so the cheaper the better

    • ANSWER:
      You can find a friend or acquaintance to do it. Find someone who loves being organized and loves to plan (like me!!!!) and ask them to be your day coordinator. Make sure to buy them a nice gift. I've done it because I find this thing very fun (leave the bridesmaids honors to those that will enjoy being up there with the bride). Plus I know it is very helpful to the bride and that makes me happy. The gift they buy me is just icing.

      If your friend has never planned a wedding but wants to be your wedding planner or day of wedding coordinator, then I would say include them in the planning process - then they can get to know your personality because a day of coordinator gets the reigns and is the boss on the day of. They run interference and make judgements calls on when they can make the call and when they would need to ask your opinion.

      And get one or two very nice wedding planning books as resource.

      You will be very prepared that way and should have a great wedding!

      I've linked my very favorite wedding planning book which I read often in the resource box

31. QUESTION:
    I want to become a Wedding Coordinator?
    My sister-inlaw and myself are interested in becoming a coordinator/planner(s). How do we go about doing this? What kind of licsense do we need (we want our own private buisness) and what certification/schooling? Any tips or information would be great.

    - Additional Info -

    We're in the Sacramento region, if that makes a difference.

    • ANSWER:
      in order to get into this business in today's market, it is almost imparative to take some courses and become certified. there are lots of them online. you can expect to pay about 1000 dollars each for your courses. take a look at the courses offered and make sure they include things like how to properly set up a receiving line, how to read and help couples negotiate vendor contracts, how to get the wedding covered by insurance, how to plan and exectute destination weddings overseas and how to look up marriage laws in other states and countries, plus how to help couples to stay within the law if they marry in the united states, particularily if one of the couple is from another country. also, be sure there is accredidation and/or certification offered with the courses.

      for the business license, that is something which you obtain from your local sacramento courthouse. you will have to call to see exactly where to go to pay for the business license.

      your next step will be to join any local wedding associations and taking part in local bridal shows. you will need money for all of that, so be sure you have some business funds to work with. also look into various advertising methods. your local yellow pages will be expensive, less costly are some of the online advertising sites.

      you will need to do a great deal of networking to get other wedding vendors to recommend your services to their clients. it takes a couple of years and lots of work to build up a little business. most of us started off doing it for whatever our friends and familly members were willing to give us just to get the experience we needed and to build a portfolio to show potential clients. you must have photos of weddings you have done in order to get business. make sure you get photos from every couple whose weddings you plan.

      it's a very hard business to get into and it takes some real effort and time to make enough money to even pay for the operation of the business, so be patient and work hard.

32. QUESTION:
    Who is the best wedding coordinator company in Italy to use for your wedding?
    We are Americans looking for a company to handle all these details and to give us advice on locations and procedures.

    • ANSWER:
      If you happen to have an American Express Platinum or Criterion card, they have an internal concierge to help with these things, included in your annual fee. If not, there are private concierge services you can find easily just by doing a web search. If all else fails, try calling some of the most expensive hotels and get referrals. They should have planners to talk with just to win your business but you might coax an entire vendor list from one of them. Consider taking your photographer with you from home. Most nightmares I've heard related to the coordinator and photographer, especially destination weddings. You have to trust these people and won't be able to relax as much with a stranger taking your pictures.

33. QUESTION:
    I'm 17 and want to become a wedding coordinator, what can I do now to get me started?
    I have wanted to become a wedding planner for as long as I can remember, I'm 17 right now and really want to get started on my career. I graduate high school next summer and will be taking a 2 weekend course for my wedding planner certificate. Is there anything now that I could do to help me out for my career??

    • ANSWER:
      you can offer to help plan weddings for free or a very low fee to gain some experience. Then have all of your clients write letters of recommendation for you to keep. After gaining some experience look into getting a website to help with marketing.

34. QUESTION:
    I am ready to open my business as a wedding coordinator and I need suggestions for a name?
    I want something catchy. Some of my favorite things are butterflies, bows, hearts, and my favorite color is pink. I am not sure if this is the right forum for this question. I just thought that this would be a good group to ask since most of you are in the planning process for your weddings and this is what I want my main focus of my business to be.

    • ANSWER:
      I would try to play off the butterfly thing. I'm not good with things like this, but try to play on having butterflies in your stomach before a wedding, and how you'll help calm them Like "Butterflies No More Wedding Planning" or something. That's a horrible name, but you get the idea.

35. QUESTION:
    How do you become a bridal/wedding coordinator?
    Do you have to go to school for it? Or can you start on your own?

    • ANSWER:
      The best routes to take are to research the process of starting a business as well as the industry you're interested in.

      I recommend checking out the SBA, Entrepreneur, The Start Up Journal & Nolo. All 4 are great informational resources for the new/small business owner. I posted links for you in the source box.

      Associations may be a good avenue to explore. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.

      Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can about the industry. Here are some book titles that are relevant:

      * How To Start A Wedding Planning Business by Cho Phillips, Sherrie Wilkolaski
      * Start Your Own Wedding Consultant Business: Your Step-By-Step Guide to Success by Eileen Figure Sandlin
      * FabJob Guide to Become a Wedding Planner by Catherine Goulet
      * How to Start a Home-Based Event Planning Business by Jill Moran
      * Start Your Own Event Planning Business: Your Step by Step Guide to Success by Krista Turner

      I also posted links to some free articles in the source box.

      Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

36. QUESTION:
    What do I need to do to legally be a wedding coordinator?
    i want to start doing this business and i need to know what i need to do to start. Such as any permits i need to get and all of that good stuff so i can operate legally. Thanks!!

    • ANSWER:
      Wedding coordinator is not a profession or occupation that requires licensing for you to operate (as compared say to a construction contractor or nightclub operator). Simply go to your local county clerk office and:

      - Register your business: in some states such as Virginia, this process takes only 15-30 minutes and in fees while some such as California requires that you announce your new business in the papers

      - If you are going to do business other than your given name, file the DBA or assumed name (e.g. instead of Jane Doe you use Forever Wedding Planner or something to that effect)

      With your business registration form, you can already go to the bank and show it to open your business bank account.

      Depending on your state, the process can be as simple as doing the two processes above. However, if you are going to have an office, then you need some other things such as

      - zoning board approval for your signage
      - construction permit for the office
      - and others

      Top 5 Wedding Program Templates

      Designing your wedding program can be tough if you have never seen one before and if you are planning the wedding yourself, you can find some wedding program templates on the internet to give you the most appropriate wording and sizing. These templates can be found freely available, but some will want you to become a member to have access to all the options.

      1.The top idea for getting your template is to look at the free ones. There are many great ideas and layouts that you will probably love and you can also look at some wedding planner brochures if...

      Continue...

      If you will be operating from home, things will be simplier.

      But check with your county, and some counties have websites so go online and see if the starting a business process is indicated in your county website

37. QUESTION:
    I want to be a wedding coordinator and eventually have my own business, where do i start ?
    I was wondering should I take a class?

    • ANSWER:
      Taking a class will surely get you off in the right direction, but if you can get a job as an assistant to a wedding planner, or event planning/management, or in one of the industries involved in weddings and event coordination, then that is the absolute best way to learn practical experience about best operating procedures and pitfalls to avoid other than making them yourself!

38. QUESTION:
    I have hired a wedding coordinator, just for the wedding day. What are the usual responsibilities?
    She is handling the rehearsal and the wedding day itinerary, but I think there should be more given that she is being paid to coordinate things. I appreciate your advice on this one.

    • ANSWER:
      You need to talk to HER and together determine her responsibilities. I would have her coordinate the rehearsal and deal with all vendors on the day of the wedding, at the very least.

      Finally, she should be able to handle guests that don't cooperate. My guy would just shout "Would y'all shut yer traps and get ya'll over here?" Yes, I've actually heard him say y'all twice in one sentence when he's stressed.

39. QUESTION:
    How Do I Get My Dream Job As A Wedding Coordinator?
    Ever since I was young I've been fascinated with weddings! I think love is beautiful and the ceremony should be equally as glorious. I'm just unsure how to start, or who to call. I only have a GED. Should I be in school and is there an apprentice program? Is it even a good buisness?? Does anyone know?

    • ANSWER:
      You might try IOSCAR. It asks questions and suggests occupations that you would be interested in. "Wedding planner" may not be on the list, but if that is what you really want to do, the suggestions should be close to that and will give you an idea of what kind of training or college degee would be helpful to you.

      http://www.ioscar.org/tx/ip/ipinstruct.asp

40. QUESTION:
    What do you look for when hiring a wedding coordinator?
    Do you want someone who will help with everything or mainly just taking care of things the day-of?

    • ANSWER:
      Depends on how much time you have to donate to your wedding. A wedding coordinator knows which vendors are the best and will work best with your budget and wedding style.

      If you have the money, I say get a full time wedding coordinator. They take so much stress off you and make your day go with ease.

      Now when you are looking for one, make sure you ask how much experience they have, how many weddings they have done, how much they cost, and how long they have worked in the area that you want your wedding at.

      See if you can get they're last two wedding contacts to get their point of view of the coordinator's work. Good Luck!

41. QUESTION:
    what is the average price a wedding coordinator charges?
    I'm starting a business and I would like to know what are the average prices so I'm not overpricing or underpricing (if that's a word, lol). Please help!!!
    I needed to know what is the base rate that I charge without all the vendor's fees. like if the client wants to rent chairs, this is not included in my fee. I want to know what to charge in terms of my fee.

    • ANSWER:
      In case a wedding planner is the same thing it costs about 00 to 00. Here is a link for it:

      http://people.whatitcosts.com/wedding-planner.htm

42. QUESTION:
    What are some advantages and disadvantages to hiring a wedding coordinator?
    just wondering about experiences

    • ANSWER:
      My cousin's coordinator was his godmother. She bounced around the ceremony & reception *like* she was a paid professional. They made tons of preparations months in advance.

      My sister was helped by me, my mom, and her fiance. We did the best we could with a week's notice. He was joining the Navy and they needed to be married ASAP. Every second was used, we even did the programs the morning of the ceremony on our home computer.
      ***
      My cousin divorced 3 years into his marriage. They had a bitter divorce and a messy custody battle (over their daughter).

      My sister has been married 7 years and has a second child!

      ***
      From that alone, I want to plan my own wedding...
      I find with planners, people get too tied up in the details of that *one* day and forget that it's just the start of a new life together! Look at all of the questions about dress designers and wedding cake icing colors here. Add someone who's job is to agree with the bride and it's a recipe for disaster!

43. QUESTION:
    How do I become an Event Planner or Wedding Coordinator?
    DETAILS: I have a BA in Psychology, but after my first job that is not the route I want to take. I have significant experience as a waitress (8 years), so I have worked with people. I have also planned a few personel parties and have worked a bit as an admin asst. I am EXTREMElY organized and know I would do a great job, now how do I get that across to an employer so they won't throw my resume out the minute they see no experience and a non related degree??? THANKS!

    • ANSWER:
      lokk on www.jobserve.co.uk

44. QUESTION:
    What are the best classes to take to become a wedding planner/event coordinator?
    i want to be a wedding planner/event coordinator. what are the best college classes to take?

    • ANSWER:
      SO DO I!!!! lol
      i asked a question similar to urs a while ago!!!

      http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AlAcSGNP6c7sZwjWfo4f5Ovty6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20071124174832AAXARor

      "The best hospitality programs (AKA hotel & restaurant schools) are at Cornell University, Michigan State and UNLV."
      Ranto

45. QUESTION:
    How do I become a wedding coordinator?
    After I got married I really had a lot of fun and I was left with sooo many ideas! I think I want to do it for a living!

    • ANSWER:
      It's tough to start out as a wedding coordinator. You need contacts and experience... girls that splurge for a wedding planner don't want the planner making rookie mistakes and figuring out things as she goes along.

      If you want to get into it, I suggest that you get some experience... if you can, get a job with an established wedding coordinator. Working for a wedding florist, baker, or dress shop could also give you experience and valuable insight. My wedding planner worked as a florist before becoming the owner... there's a lot more to being a wedding planner than just being creative and having cute ideas. Remember that you will be planning wedding for girls that want their weddings to represent them and their ideas, not just yours.

      Good luck!

46. QUESTION:
    My friend is my daughter's wedding coordinator. How much should I pay her?
    What would be a fair price to pay a friend for helping with the wedding. She has been involved in every aspect and will be overseeing the day-of set up as well directing the actual wedding. I have already bought her and her husband a gift certificate to a day spa as compensation, but I wondered if I should give her money also and if so - how much?

    • ANSWER:
      Even though she's a friend and money hasn't been discussed, I would offer to pay at least 10% of the wedding budget. It sounds like she's put in a lot of time and effort and she should definitely be compensated.

      ADD: She may decline the money and say that her services are a gift, but you should at least offer to compensate her.

47. QUESTION:
    Where do I start If I want to become an event/wedding coordinator?

    • ANSWER:
      The best way to start would be by working alongside someone else! Find event/wedding coordinators in your area, and ask them if they need help. Offer to help with things like actually carrying out the event, the planning, perhaps promotions if necessary. Chances are, they would love your help, and might feel pretty cool having an apprentice. They'd especially appreciate if you volunteer your time instead of insisting upon being paid at first. But this way, you gain invaluable experience, and you gain the respect of an expert in your field of interest, which could be great for future referrals - for example, if your "mentor" double-booked events and needed your help!

      Best of luck to you!

48. QUESTION:
    Anyone ever use a part time or day-of wedding coordinator?
    I've heard of wedding coordinators that only come in on the last couple weeks of your wedding to coordinate everything you've put together already, or coordinators that only work for you the day of the wedding. Has anyone any experience with this? Good, bad?
    Great feedback so far. I should add that this wedding is only going to be about 40 people, wedding on a pier, reception at home. 3 bridesmaids, one groomsman. August, so everything will be outdoors. I already have the dress, photos, permits, food and officiant. Just need someone for a few other details and to pull it all together.

    • ANSWER:
      I would think that would be a great idea especially with a big wedding. Less things to deal with and they probably remember a lot of small things that you might forget. A good way to make sure everything is covered and you won't have to stress out so much. I would be sure to get references.

49. QUESTION:
    What kind of college classes do you go through to become a wedding coordinator?

    • ANSWER:
      College is not necessary for this career. Try to find an informal apprenticeship with a wedding coordinator. It should not be in the city where you want to work as you will probably have to sign an agreement not to work in your mentor's city.
      Twenty to fifty miles away would be a usual distance.

50. QUESTION:
    Difference between wedding planner and coordinator?
    Did anyone hire a wedding planner? If so, did they also do coordinating - rehearsal, set-up, communicating with vendors?
    If you didn't hire one, do you think there's a distinct difference between planner and coordinator? I know some probably do both planning/coordinaing services, but just wondering. I was thinking I wanted to be a planner but not coordinator.

    • ANSWER:
      I think the difference is this:

      A wedding planner takes care of EVERYTHING... dealing with vendors, fighting for the best deal, taking care of the guest list, organizing EVERYTHING. They are there to take all the stress off the Bride.

      A wedding coordinator simply helps coordinate the ceremony and/or reception. Makes sure everything is set up and ready to go.