Affordable CT day-of coordinator

Maybe having on of your guests be a "stage manager" for the day. This can be someone who is already attending the wedding, is super organized, and has probbaly already offered their services. A few people would jump on the change (as MOH for my best friend, this is me). You just hand over your spreadsheets and be confident that you have done all the planning thus far, a stage manager just needs to point out where they go. If you need someone to be setting up the venue while you're at the ceremony, then hiring someone would be a better choice.

Ask if the venue has a person who could act as a coordinator on the day of the wedding. You can usually swing this for an extra $200 if they don't already have a set price. This can be a manager, reservationist, or server with a great eye for detail. If you don't ask, you'll never know.

My last tip is the scariest but something I have done on the fly for a deal: craigslist (dramatic music). Cont. below:

Post a CL ad with the price you're willing to pay, the date, and specify that you want a DAY OF COORDINATOR. This is your time to shine. Be specific about exactly what you expect from the person, how many pre-wedding meetings you expect, and a detailed time line. And don't take anyone without a reference. Again, always get a reference. And then draw up a contract that you both agree upon and sign it. In this economy, people are willing to take a couple hundred for a grand total of 10 hours of their time. Make sure you offer then a meal (no booze) and then tip them if they do a good job.

I read somewhere that u could also hire a stage production manager from a theater company, they're used to running and coordinating shows but because they're not apart of the "wedding" industry they won't charge nearly as much as a a specific wedding coordinator

Emily Lester, of EM event management.

Toby Ellen Sarna

Those are my 'go-to"s in your area.

Don't go to CL, where you will find beginners. If you're going to hire someone, hire a pro and breath easier. A good person is worth every cent.

Thanks for the suggestions!

Your vendors can be trusted to do the job you hire them for. A great DJ/MC should be acting as your leader keeping everyone on task with what you want in the order you want it.

I do what you would pay a planner for during your reception and a good quality DJ should also do the same.

Hi Jaclyn,

I'm with Accessory to the Bride. I'm based in Milford, CT and would love to talk to you more in regards to what you're looking for. For day of services we typically run about 50% less than our competition for "Day of Services" as compared to other companies that charge a flat 10% fee off your budget. We are happy to work with all budgets and only charge based on the services you need - not just a flat package. We don't put any limits on e-mails or correspondence or phone calls - we're completely accessible to you, not just 9 to 5 or on weekdays. Our focus is really on having a very happy couple because nothing means more to us than you referral!

If you'd like to talk more to us or if you have any questions, you can reach me at 203-767-8933 or via e-mail at *******************@*****.***. You can check us out at www.accessorytothebride.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/atotheb.

Congratulations on your engagement and Happy New Year!

Rachael B