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Writer's pictureSara Richardson

The Difference Between a Wedding Planner & a Venue Coordinator

Embarking on the exhilarating journey of planning your dream wedding involves a myriad of decisions, and one of the initial choices often centers around selecting the perfect venue. Accompanying this decision are two significant players: the venue coordinator and the wedding planner. While their r

oles may initially seem interchangeable, unraveling the unique responsibilities each holds is essential to orchestrating a seamless and unforgettable wedding.


In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between a venue coordinator and a wedding planner, offering insights into what to anticipate leading up to and on your special day.



1. Venue Coordinator


When you secure a venue, it typically comes with a venue coordinator or manager—think of them as the curator of venue experiences. Their role is intricately tied to the specific space, focusing on enforcing venue rules, confirming layout details, and overseeing the setup of essentials like tables and chairs on the big day. If your chosen venue offers in-house catering, the coordinator ensures that the culinary experience aligns with the venue's commitment to excellence. While they're dedicated to ensuring your day aligns with the venue's aesthetic, it's important to note that their presence might not be constant throughout your entire wedding day.


2. Wedding Planner: Your Personal Wedding Bestie


Enter the wedding planner, your personal wedding bestie. Unlike the venue coordinator, a wedding planner is solely dedicated to ensuring your wedding day runs seamlessly. Offering a range of packages from full wedding planning to wedding management (month-of coordination), they become your confidant throughout the planning process. For instance, at SōCō, our wedding management package goes beyond traditional month-of coordination, providing extra attention and support in the lead-up to your wedding day.

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Whether you opt for full planning or wedding management, a wedding planner becomes your go-to person for all things wedding-related. They assist with budget management, vendor selection, design concepts, and more. On the wedding day, your wedding bestie takes charge of crafting timelines, directing vendors, overseeing setup and breakdown, and ensuring everyone is in their designated spots at the right moments.


In Conclusion


In the intricate dance of wedding planning, both the venue coordinator and the wedding planner play crucial roles. While the venue coordinator safeguards the essence of the venue, your wedding planner is your dedicated partner in ensuring every detail of your dream day is brought to life. The magic truly happens when these professionals collaborate, resulting in a wedding weekend that flows effortlessly and becomes a cherished memory for you, your family, and your guests. So, as you embark on this exciting journey, remember the unique contributions of each, ensuring your wedding day is a harmonious celebration, from conception to completion.



Did you hire a wedding planner/coordinator? How involved was your venue coordinator at your wedding?Let me know in the comments below!

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