WHAT TYPE OF PLANNING IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

by ANNE PYBURN CRAIG

date posted: March 13, 2018

Wedding planners are a special breed. They thrive on the art and science of transforming your dream from concept to flawless execution. Hiring a planner can save you money and time as they deploy their expertise and network on your behalf.

How much planner do you need? Many planners offer several service options. Here are some things to consider:

Full-service planning will guide you through every step, from fantasy to reality. A full-service planner is ideal for couples with busy lives or those who know they want a beautiful wedding, but can’t bear the thought of spending time deciding exactly how the napkins should be folded.

Maybe you have very definite ideas about your playlist and your menu, but would just as soon let someone else figure out who can provide those. Maybe you’re planning your wedding from a distance and want local knowledge on your choices.

A full-service planner will listen well and then take the reins, handling contracts, negotiation, and scheduling. Make sure you’re comfortable with your planner’s style, make sure you’ve communicated your vision clearly, and you’re on your way.

great choice for couples who want to do their own choosing and hiring, but can use a hand with the logistics during those last crucial weeks from someone who has a lot of practice.

Time-challenged couples, people with a tendency to procrastinate, eager dreamers who just want to enjoy the last bit of their engagement with their heads in the clouds, guilt-free—if any of these describe you, a month-of coordination package may be the perfect choice.

A month-of coordinator is an expert at handling final negotiations, scheduling deliveries, and trouble-shooting. Communicate your vision, make good lists, hand them over, and the month-of coordinator will leave you free to get ready to celebrate.

Hiring a day-of (or weekend-of) wedding coordinator is a great way to make sure that you and your guests will have a lovely time.

You’ll be free to wed and to revel, with someone else as the point person sorting out details, making sure everything and everyone is in the right place at the right time, and solving any last-minute problems that arise.

A day-of coordinator is almost a necessity if you’re planning a large wedding. Throwing any sort of a gathering for dozens and dozens of people is a major logistical feat, even if you’re not getting married at the same time. A day-of coordinator will take over the arrangments and leave you free to love each other, your day, and your company.

bliss events

Hudson Valley, Catskills, Capital Region, 518-821-5020, www.myblissevents.com

Bliss Events is a certified wedding planning company specializing in design, decor, and day-of coordination. We will work with your vision and budget to provide you with the best of our creativity, professional expertise, and knowledge of resources and contacts. Bliss Events is also proud to offer the state-of-the-art “Selfie Time Selfie Station” open-air photo booth! It’s an ice breaker, photo taker, and memory maker. Green-screen background options, unlimited prints, and instant uploads to social media, texts, and emails.

catskills concierge

Cairo, 518-821-1750, www.catskillsconcierge.com

Your go-to wedding guru. Boasting over ten years of experience in planning and executing, from off-the-grid to classic charm weddings and special events. If there is one thing we’ve learned, it’s that not one wedding is the same and we are here to guide your unique style and requests! Provide staffing for out-of-town catering and beverage services. Connections to local venues and vendors. Specializing in day-of coordination.

events by mb

Tivoli, 845-756-5043, www.eventsbymb.com

Events by MB produces and designs gracious weddings and events. Bringing together a unique combination of skills, Mary Beth has Fortune 500 business savvy (good for working with budgets!), a Maine-grown sense of pragmatism, and an inherent love all of things beautiful. Her design sense has been influenced by international study and travel, as well as wonderfully diverse clients. Mary Beth has particular expertise in planning weddings and events at private homes and estates which require a special skill set. Let’s Create your Dream Day.

gina maloney events

Woodstock, 845-853-4075, www.ginamaloneyevents.com

Winner of The Knot’s Best of Wedding Award for 2016, 2017, and 2018, Gina Maloney Events is where creative design and detailed organization meet. From the initial planning stages of your event until the last guest departs, Gina and her crew are dedicated to making your event the most memorable, stress-free, beautiful affair that truly reflects your specific dreams and desires. For a consultation, e-mail info@ginamaloneyevents.com. You can also see her work in The Knot.

grounded

Kingston, 845-514-3432, www.groundedny.com

If you are are opting to plan your own wedding, we can provide you with day-of coordination to ensure that your plans are carried out smoothly. Let us be the liaison with your vendors and pull all the pieces of the puzzle together. Not only do you want to relax on your wedding day, those closest to you should as well! Entrust your special day to a wedding professional with the experience and flexibility to handle any last-minute changes that may come up, so you and your family can enjoy your celebration.

hudson valley ceremonies

Rhinebeck, 845-244-1482, www.hudsonvalleyceremonies.com

This large group of wedding planners will assist you in designing the event of a lifetime. With over 24 years of experience and a vast network of professionals, Hudson Valley Ceremonies will help you and your families enjoy the wedding planning process. They have a package to fit every wedding and budget, specializing in rustic, chic, and elegant weddings. Services include day-of coordination, partial and full planning, and virtual wedding planning as well.

lauren pasternak events

Newburgh, 845-264-2955, www.laurenpasternak.com

LP Events & Weddings is a full-service wedding planning company designed to break paradigms and create soulful experiences. I’m here to bring your vision to life, and add in those personal touches to make sure your wedding is truly yours. I love fun, unique elements and incorporating those details that make all the difference. From day-of coordination to full planning and everything in between—I’m your girl. I also offer personalized yoga classes throughout the planning process! Contact me for a free consultation.

main course

New Paltz, 845-255-2600, www.maincoursecatering.com

Every couple has a unique vision for their wedding day, and Main Course event planners are there to help bring that vision to life. Whether it’s deciding on the perfect venue or choosing the right china pattern, Main Course staff will be by your side to ensure that every detail is addressed. Expect highly personalized service from their professional staff whose only goal is to make the planning process as easy for you as walking down the aisle.

rsvp by b

Hudson Valley, 845-202-3340, www.rsvpbyb.com

RSVP by B Wedding Coordination serves the beautiful Hudson Valley! We primarily focus on wedding day coordination. We understand what it takes to create a smooth, stress-free, beautiful wedding. We want the entire process of finalizing your details to be a joyful one for you and your families. We are organized, energetic, and detail-oriented. We have your best interest at heart, and we take our responsibility of creating an experience that you will remember seriously. We believe in making your day happen your way!