As couples begin thinking about their wedding, they are often confused as to how much to spend, where to obtain specialized services, and how to choose vendors. These worries often mount as quickly as the cost of the wedding. After the euphoria wears off and the reality settles in, it's shocking to discover how much preparation is involved. Couples are faced with decisions about everything from invitation wording to planning their honeymoon. Couples often find they want experienced professional help. Wedding coordinators are not there to make decisions for you, but to guide and assist you in making informed decisions.

IF MY WEDDING SITE AND MY RECEPTION SITE HAVE COORDINATORS DO I REALLY NEED ANOTHER COORDINATOR?

There are many people who classify themselves as wedding coordinators, but they are usually there to coordinate with you on their specific profession, such as photography, videography, and ceremony and reception location. They do not provide the personal attention you need nor do they have the entire vision down to the specific details of how you wish to spend your special day. Sometimes, family members act in the role of coordinator and then end up missing out on spending that special day with you. A certified consultant or planner normally is hired to help you with each and every detail from dresses, etiquette, ordering invitations, budgeting, determining the time the wedding should take place, selecting the attire, calling your vendors to make sure they are at the right place at the right time, along with making sure your vendors (other coordinators) that were hired are doing their job. Your consultant has already been through these steps many times over and can suggest the best vendors that they have dealt with and give you suggestions on locations depending upon the style of wedding you want.

HOW DO YOU KNOW YOU'RE HIRING THE RIGHT COORDINATOR?

Trust is important in any relationship. You should feel completely comfortable with the coordinator and feel assured that he or she completely listens and understands your needs. A wedding coordinator can serve in many other capacities. They can act as the family counselor for apprehensive brides and their mothers; a wedding coordinator can become as close as your best friend.