“Day Of Coordination” sounds easy. You plan everything, then someone shows up on your wedding day to take the reins. Except that service doesn’t exist. No one can run a wedding they know nothing about. It is one of the biggest myths in the industry, and it sets couples up for disappointment.

When there is no professional wedding coordinator, someone still ends up doing the work. Usually it is your photographer, bridal party, or family. Your photographer should be capturing memories, not managing timelines. Your mom should be enjoying the day, not answering questions about vendors. These people love you, but they should not have to run your wedding.

Now, let’s talk about venue event managers. They are essential, and many are incredibly talented. Their job, though, is very different. They work for the venue, not for you. They manage the catering, the staff, and the property. Some will help watch the clock or manage the flow of the day, but you do not meet them before the wedding. They do not know your vendor contracts, your priorities, or your style well enough to make executive decisions for you. They are not responsible for confirming outside vendors, managing transportation delays, or figuring out what to do when your uncle, who was supposed to drive your car home, has been celebrating too hard. None of this is their job. And that is not a criticism. I have been in that role myself, and it is important. When an event manager works alongside a planner or coordinator, it is the perfect balance. The difference is simple. The event manager works for the venue. The planner works for you.

I learned this lesson the hard way. I got married at The Bluffs at Conner Prairie, one of my favorite venues. Their exclusive caterer, The Ritz Charles, is outstanding. I even worked for them for three years before starting Altar’d Weddings & Design. The only mistake I made was not hiring a coordinator. On my wedding day, I was the one coordinating vendors, answering questions, and tracking down family members. I was the bride and the manager. I could not relax because everyone came to me for answers.

This is where Month Of Coordination comes in. It is what couples think “Day Of Coordination” means, but done correctly.

Month Of Coordination starts four to six weeks before your wedding. Your planner joins the process to learn your event in full and prepare for seamless execution. It bridges the gap between what you have planned and what still needs direction.

A Month Of Coordination package usually includes:

• A detailed onboarding meeting to review your entire wedding plan
• Full review of vendor contracts to confirm services and timing
• Creation of a complete wedding day timeline
• Communication with all vendors to confirm details and arrival times
• Venue walkthrough to finalize setup and flow
• Coordination of your ceremony rehearsal
• Full day-of management from setup through breakdown
• Problem-solving and vendor direction throughout the event

The most important part of Month Of Coordination is the relationship that forms between you and your planner. During those weeks, your planner gets to know you, your priorities, your family, and your style. They know how to make decisions on your behalf that align with what you want. That trust makes the day effortless because you can fully let go.

When couples describe a “stress-free wedding,” this is what they are talking about. Someone who knows every detail, every vendor, and every backup plan. Someone who works for you.

Luxury weddings are not about excess. They are about intention, calm, and expertise.

If you are recently engaged and want your wedding day to feel relaxed, organized, and entirely yours, schedule your consultation at calendly.com/altardweddings. Let’s make sure you get to live every moment, not manage it.