So, what does a wedding planner actually do?  True story?  There is not much a wedding planner doesn’t do.  Aside from planning, designing and producing beautiful weddings, a wedding planner is also a therapist, a crisis-control expert,  a logistical ace, a communications specialist and a best friend.

Some people believe that a planner’s job is glamorous; fancy and easy…clad with a clipboard and a headset, barking orders.  While he or she definitely means business on the day of the wedding, a planner’s job includes a lot of behind the scenes “grunt work” (for lack of a better word). Wedding planners are usually the ones cleaning up, looking for tiny flaws, perfecting the tiniest of details,  and putting out fires (figuratively, that is)…and that is just on the wedding day.  The 12-18 months leading up to the wedding…we’ll save that story for another day!

A huge part of the job is making each and every client feel like they are the number one priority. And from there, plan what will be one of the most important days of the couple’s life…no easy feat!  The calming voice; the creative, cool and collected person who works tirelessly to make sure every little detail is met so that the couple’s vision comes to life…that’s a wedding planner.

The Wedding Day

Mid-Morning 

First, things first, your planner will arrive at the venue or hotel to check in with you while you are getting ready. Once they double check with you and make sure hair and makeup are in order, the team will go to the ceremony site and reception space to greet and manage the vendors. 

Early Afternoon 

Set up is now in full swing!! If you are having a First Look, the planner will  accompany you to fluff your dress and hand you your bouquet. Meanwhile, the  team is also holding down the fort, whether that means setting up your welcome table or pinning on your groomsmen’s boutonnieres.  At this point we’ve got you covered, the planning team is spread throughout the location taking care of all of the finishing touches before it is time to walk down the aisle.

Pre-Ceremony 

Right before your guests begin to arrive, the planning team will ensure that the couple is hidden from view. The team will position themselves at the venue’s main entrance to personally welcome each of your guests and direct them to either have a pre-ceremony beverage or take a seat at the ceremony space.  Your lead planner will make sure your wedding party is lined up correctly to begin making their way down the aisle.  Before you know it, it will be your turn to waltz down the aisle to your beloved. They will wish you luck and send you on your way! 

Cocktail Hour 

As you soak up the first few moments of wedded bliss, one of the planning team members will stay at cocktail hour to answer any questions and make sure it runs smoothly.  Another team member will be present as you take your family photos and get ready for your reception to make sure you have everything that you need.  At this point, a planner will bustle your dress or give you a quick fashion check so you are all set for your first dance.

Reception 

It’s party time!! Once you’ve made your grand entrance into the reception, the planning team will take care of coordinating toasts, special dances, cake cutting and any other special moments you would like incorporated into your big night. The planning team will be in direct communication with your DJ or band to make sure that all VIP’s and your photography team are present for all of the special moments. 

The planner will also be coaching anyone giving a speech and providing some guidance for them a few minutes before showtime. After that, your only job is to make newlywed memories and dance the night away!

The Send-Off 

At the end of the night, your planner will provide any props that you want for your exit; sparklers, maracas, champagne bottles, etc. The team will also be in charge of packing up any sentimental or decorative items that you brought to display. The planner will also refer to the forms filled out during the planning process, to make sure that the cards and gifts fall into your designated person’s hands. All that you have left to do at this point is to live happily ever after.

From vendors to budgets, to unruly guests to family spats, wedding planners deal with it all.  These men and women are the purveyors of happiness, the curators of dreams and the inventors of  wedding fantasies. They bring a smile, a helping hand and an eye for design, they are your go to for pep talks when emotions run high, and will give you the honest facts. They are your support system and professional problem-solvers  but also a friend and confidant. You can’t go wrong with having a planning team by your side on your special day.

If you are still on the fence about whether or not you need a wedding planner to help you through the planning process. Check out our blog, A Planner’s Perspective on Why You Should Work With a Wedding Planner, for some tips on why we think a wedding planner is a sure thing!

If you are ready to hire your “superhero team” and interested in finding out more about Anyvent’s planning services, check us out here, we would love to help bring your wedding vision to life.