Why Day-Of Coordination Is So Much More Than "Just Showing Up"

There’s a big misconception that a day-of coordinator just walks in on the wedding day, clipboard in hand, and keeps things moving. The truth is, by the time I “show up,” I’ve already been behind the scenes for weeks making sure every detail comes together long before anyone says “I do.”

And trust me, I learned that lesson the hard way. When I was a bride, I thought I could handle everything myself. I had spreadsheets, checklists, and color-coded tabs for days. But on my wedding day, instead of being fully present, I was the one fixing small things, answering questions, and trying to keep everything on schedule. I loved the planning process, but I barely got to enjoy the actual day. That experience is exactly why I started Not Your Average Jane, so couples don’t have to do it all like I did.

The Calm Before the Beautiful Chaos

When couples book day-of coordination, it’s really “month-of coordination” in disguise. The first step is getting up to speed on all your vendors, contracts, timelines, and design details. Even the best-planned weddings have hundreds of moving parts.

I reach out to vendors, confirm arrival times, cross-check setup needs, and fill in the little gaps you might not have thought of. Who’s lighting the candles? Who’s cueing the ceremony music? What happens to your décor at the end of the night? I make sure all of that is covered so you don’t have to.

Your Personal Problem Solver

A day-of coordinator is part planner, part troubleshooter, and part best friend with a fanny pack full of solutions. A boutonniere falls apart? I’ve got extra pins. The weather changes? I already have a backup plan. Aunt Linda shows up early and wants to help? I’ll give her a job that keeps her happy and out of your hair.

My job is to quietly fix things before you even know something went wrong so you can stay in the moment and actually enjoy your day.

Vendor Traffic Control

On the wedding day, I’m not just coordinating, I’m conducting. Your florist, DJ, caterer, and photographer all have timelines that need to stay in sync. I make sure every cue hits when it should, that dinner is served hot, and that no one misses the first dance or cake cutting because they were still in the bathroom line.

The Emotional Anchor

Beyond logistics, I’m there to keep you calm. I’ll hand you a tissue, grab your lipstick, or remind you to eat. My goal is to be that steady presence so you can focus on being fully present.

So What Does “Day-Of” Really Mean?

It means weeks of preparation, clear communication, and smart coordination before the big day. When the day arrives, it feels seamless because all the details are already handled. You’re not hiring someone to just show up, you’re investing in someone who makes sure nothing falls through the cracks.

Final Thought

Your wedding day should feel easy, joyful, and full of love. A good coordinator doesn’t just show up. We show up for you.

About the Author

Liz is the lead planner and creative strategist behind Not Your Average Jane Events, a Bay Area wedding and event planning company that helps couples create beautifully unordinary celebrations. After planning her own wedding and realizing how much she needed another “her” on that day, she built her business to help others feel calm, cared for, and completely in the moment.