What a Day-Of Coordinator Does (And Why 'Day-Of' Is a Myth)
- Christine Ingham
- Sep 30, 2024
- 2 min read
Many couples hire a "day-of coordinator" to ensure their wedding runs smoothly, thinking it’s all about the coordinator showing up and managing things on the day itself. But the truth is, the work starts long before the big day. Here’s why the term "day-of" is misleading and why it’s actually month-of coordination.
What a Day-Of Coordinator Really Does
While it’s called "day-of," the coordinator’s job begins weeks in advance. Here’s what they handle:
Before the Wedding: We have an initial meeting so I can understand your vision and ensure no detail is overlooked. This is where we make sure we're a good fit to work together, and we go over what's keeping you up at night.
Two months before your wedding, we schedule a timeline meeting where we go over all the little details, and then I take that information and build your wedding day timeline. You may already have a photography timeline at this point but mine goes into much more detail about all your vendors and all moving parts of your day.
In the 1-2 weeks before your wedding I confirm with all your vendors to ensure we're all on the same page and nobody needs additional information.
At Your Rehearsal: I help the wedding party and key participants understand their roles and where they need to be during the ceremony so there are no surprises day of.
On the Wedding Day: I manage vendors, ensure the timeline is followed, and troubleshoot any issues that arise. My goal is to keep things running smoothly so the couple can enjoy their day stress-free.
After the Wedding: I send a follow up detailing where all your important items were left- the marriage license, gifts and cards, your veil... maybe even your shoes!
Why 'Day-Of' Is a Myth
The term "day-of" is misleading because the work typically starts 4-6 weeks before the wedding. A coordinator needs time to finalize logistics, confirm vendor details, and create a solid plan. Waiting until the actual wedding day would be chaotic, which is why it’s more accurate to call it month-of coordination.
Why You Need a Month-Of Coordinator
Hiring a month-of coordinator ensures the final weeks of wedding planning are smooth. They step in during the busiest time, allowing you to relax and enjoy the lead-up to your wedding. With their help, your day will run seamlessly, and you can focus on what truly matters—celebrating with loved ones.
Why I Market my Services as a Day Of Coordinator
You may be asking yourself "if you're really a month of coordinator, why don't you call it that?" I find that those who aren't immersed in the wedding world aren't familiar with the term "month of coordinator", so my goal is to put my information in front of people who are looking for a day of coordinator and then explain the difference.
In Conclusion: Don’t wait until the last minute to hire a coordinator. A professional needs time to bring your vision to life, manage the details, and ensure everything goes off without a hitch. It’s more than "day-of" help—it’s about overseeing the final crucial weeks to make your wedding day perfect.

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