Couples typically spend 12–18 months planning their wedding. And with all the “moving parts” a wedding encompasses, it’s no wonder they include some professional assistance in their budget. But who do they need? Understand the important differences between wedding planners, day-of coordinators, and venue hosts—and then learn how the Oakhaven wedding team can make your big day a dream come true.
Understanding the role of a Wedding Planner
A wedding, from a financial perspective, is one of those rare times when you’ll (hopefully) never again spend so much money on so many products and services you don’t normally use. Wedding planning can be time-consuming, frustrating, and anxiety-inducing.
A professional wedding planner takes a lot of that pressure off your shoulders. From the initial consultation to the final send-off, your planner is with you every step of the way. They can help you select vendors, manage your budget (and keep you on track), answer etiquette questions, coordinate logistics, and even serve as your day-of coordinator. While they focus on pulling off your big day, many also bring a flair for event design.
Day-of Coordinators provide peace of mind
Maybe you’re super organized and confident in your wedding vision—but you’d rather spend your wedding day calm, relaxed, and fully in the moment, not running around making sure everything goes smoothly. Enter the day-of coordinator.
Actually, “day-of” is a big misnomer. This professional believes in preparation. Your DOC reviews your wedding day plans, puts together a timeline, and ensures your vendors have that schedule and the appropriate contact info.
Your DOC is also responsible for lining up the wedding party for both the ceremony and reception. They handle personal décor setup and breakdown, and make sure the right member of your wedding party leaves with items like gifts and cards at the end of the night.
Throughout the event, your DOC will be seamlessly coordinating and communicating with key wedding pros—your photographer, DJ, caterer, and venue host. And they’re always ready for the unexpected. A top DOC carries a “wedding emergency kit” with everything from Band-Aids and personal items to a sewing kit, zip ties, and dark shoestrings for that one forgetful groomsman.
Meet your venue host
They go by many names—venue manager, event day host—but whatever the title, their responsibility is to ensure the venue fulfills its contractual obligations. This wedding professional is your liaison to the venue staff and ensures the space is set up according to your specifications.
While a seasoned venue host will often have great working relationships with other vendors and understands how to run an event, they are not a day-of coordinator. Some may go the extra mile, but that’s a bonus, not a guarantee.
How does Oakhaven work with wedding planners and coordinators?
Like many premier NC wedding venues, Oakhaven requires couples to work with a professional day-of coordinator. And no, that doesn’t mean your sister who planned your cousin’s wedding. Let her use her skills for the shower, rehearsal dinner, or farewell brunch instead.
You’re welcome to bring your own coordinator—or take advantage of Oakhaven’s wedding planner extraordinaire, Jeanette Wagoner. Known as The Wedding Day Lady, Jeanette is available for both day-of coordination and full wedding planning. In fact, her services are included in Oakhaven’s all-inclusive wedding packages.
“Many of our brides appreciate having a planner who works directly at the venue,” says Jeanette. “They often feel I bring added insight into the space and how it flows. Plus, I’m very familiar with the vendors who frequently work at Oakhaven, which can be a big help in the planning process.”
Say hello to Oakhaven’s Venue Host
Your first point of contact for a wedding at Oakhaven is Kara Groenevelt. As your Wedding Specialist, she’ll check date availability, answer your questions, and give you a tour of our elegant countryside venue.
“My role encompasses the beginning and end of their wedding planning experience,” says Kara. “I’m the point of contact before booking, during the tour, and as they choose a package. I’m also available throughout the planning process if they have questions or want to revisit the property or our Decor Room.”
If you choose a day-of coordinator other than Jeanette, Kara meets with couples and their planners for a final walkthrough one month before the wedding. Then, either Kara or Elizabeth (Jeanette’s daughter) will serve as your “event-day host” for the rehearsal and wedding. You can learn more about Jeanette and Kara on our About Page.
Planning your wedding doesn’t have to be tedious, tiresome, or overwhelming. With a pro at your side, you can relax and enjoy your wedding—just like your guests! Fill out our contact form, and let the planning begin!
