Frequently Asked Questions - Day of Coordinator

What is a Day of Coordinator?

A day of wedding coordinator will be logistically focused and available to you to get everything organized as you lead up to the day of the wedding. They are there to take over on the day of the wedding to ensure that all details that are planned are executed. Their job is to make sure that you, your fiance, and your family get to enjoy the day without having to worry about all of the little details!

What’s the difference between a Day of Coordinator and a Wedding Planner?

Some of the key differences between a Day of Coordinator and a Wedding Planner is the length of time they work with you and their main responsibilities. A Day of Coordinator (DOC) is not responsible for keeping you within budget (as all budget decisions are typically made before you begin working with them), hiring vendors, negotiating contracts or designing the event. The DOC’s job is to make sure that all of the decisions you have previously made are carried out the way you have planned. Their job is to eliminate and manage any last minute changes and stress.

Do I need a DOC or a Wedding Planner?

That’s up to you in regards to how much help you feel you need. If the thought of planning a wedding overwhelms you, then we recommend that you have a Wedding Planner. If you don’t have any concerns about planning the wedding, but just want some to take a “final look” and make sure everything goes as planned, then a DOC will work perfectly!

Doesn’t the venue manager handle all of those things?

No. A venue manager is strictly responsible for the venue itself. While the venue manager may help coordinate the logistics of some vendors for load in and load out, they are not going to assist with the ceremony details, actual set up and tear down of items (aside from tables/chairs), guest needs, etc. The venue coordinator is responsible for any issues with the venue and typically does not have any obligations beyond that.

What is a Day of Coordinator responsible for?

  • Meeting with you 30 days out to help finalize all the details of your big day! They will sit in  your Final Details meeting with your vendors to make sure all details have been covered.
  • Give you a check list of items to complete and/or think through to make sure there are o surprises
  • Help you design a processional for your ceremony
  • Coordinate the rehearsal and make sure your bridal party, family, and officiant know where to be and what to do
  • Help you design a Final timeline for your wedding.
  • Schedule vendor load in/load out times, when necessary.
  • Help ensure that the photographer takes all of the photos listed on your photography plan.
  • Assist with any day of errands that may be needed.
  • During the ceremony, the DOC makes sure that all elements of the service proceed as planned.
  • Make sures the guests are seated correctly and in a timely fashion.
  • Make sure your bridal party and family are in correct places and time entrances with the music.
  • Act as your point of contact for all vendors and guests the day of the event to handle any mishaps or surprises. They take all of the stress away from you and your family so that you can actually enjoy your day!

Is a Day of Coordinator worth it?

A DOC is definitely worth it! that way all the things that can go wrong and all the details are taken care of so you don't have to stress about it on your big day! even if you take care of everything before the big day, there needs to be a point person because things always come up.

How much is a Day or Coordinator?

Our normal DOC fee is $1750, however, if you use Michaelis Events for two or more services, we will discount the DOC fee to $1500.

Will the Day of Coordinator set up my decor?

Typically, no. The Day of Coordinator is not responsible for the set up and tear down of decor. They will help to set up things such as the guest book, gift table. If you do decide to DIY your own decor and need help placing it at the reception, we do offer DOC assistants that can be an “extra set of hands” to assist with DIY items.

When do we get to meet our Day of Coordinator?

You typically will get to meet your DOC approximately 6 weeks before your wedding and provide you with a list of items to think through before your meeting. They will meet with you for your final details meeting approximately 30 days before and help you finalize all of the items on your list and help you take charge of the remaining “to do” list. They will be in communication leading up to the wedding, will attend your rehearsal, and be with you up to 12 hours the day of your wedding.

Should I tip my Day of Coordinator?

It is recommended that you tip all service staff for your wedding. That usually includes your DOC, catering and bar staff, DJ, photographer, etc. The gratuity at Michaelis Events is always at the client’s discretion.