In today's society most couples are extremely busy and honestly do not have the time to plan their dream wedding. A not so surprising fact is that it takes the average couple approximately 250 hours to plan their own wedding. For most this is a daunting figure, especially since couples normally have full time jobs, classes, children, hobbies, commitments with family and friends, etc.
Another worry is the price of weddings, the average cost of a wedding in Ottawa is $25,000. Wedding Coordinators have connections and have extensive knowledge of who's who in the wedding industry. Most couples don't want to run blindly and learn the hard way on their wedding day. Wedding Coordinators have spent so much time building up vendor connections, that you as the couple can take advantage of. Not only will this save you money, but you know you are getting professional and respected vendors working for you.
All couples want their wedding to be beautiful and have that creative flare. Wedding Coordinators know "what's in" and what does and doesn't work from experience. As a couple you may have an idea of what you want but a Wedding Coordinator can take that idea to the next level. Again, teamed with reliable vendors this can all be a reality.
Couples that plan their own weddings have to keep one eye on everything during their rehearsal dinner and wedding day. This should not be the case, as a couple you are supposed to be worrying about walking down the aisle and having fun. A Wedding Coordinator will be your eyes and ears throughout the whole process, especially during the main event. If for whatever reason a small hiccup arises during your day, you can be rest assured that your Coordinator will take care of it without you needing to lift a finger.
Wedding Coordinators are very organized people by nature and creating a timeline and schedule for all of the tasks that need to be completed before the wedding is very important. This is generally part of the package when you hire a Coordinator and it is one of the most invaluable. Organization when planning is key and a couple can benefit from the help of someone who knows appropriate deadlines for certain tasks. When thinking about planning your wedding you may think, "How long can I wait before picking out a dress?" or "When is it appropriate to send out invitations?" Certified WPIC Wedding Coordinators are trained on proper etiquette for all of these important tasks.
When you put all of these points together a main idea pops up. There is no reason for you as the couple to be stressed out on or around your wedding day, this day is supposed to be special and memorable (for the right reasons). Leave the stress and hardwork to someone else and take in one of the most incredible days of your life together. Not too long ago Wedding Coordinators were thought of as something for only the wealthy, but these days it is becoming more and more popular for everyone. This is an affordable option and not by any means only for certain people. In plain terms, it is worth it!
The last but very important point is how do you pick your Wedding Coordinator? This is another fairly simple answer. You want to make sure that you and your Coordinator click and that you feel you can trust them with this important day. You should feel completely comfortable with them and what they have to offer! In Canada there is a Wedding Coordinator Certification through WPIC (Wedding Planners Institute of Canada - http://www.wpic.ca/), when working with Certified Coordinators you can be rest assured that you are dealing with someone who is professional and adhering to a code of ethics through the association.
~ Ashley Cooke
