To hire a decorator or not?

This is generally something that a DOC (day-of coordinator) can handle for you. They're extremely beneficial not only in setting up and breaking down your event, but in managing the timeline, dealing with vendors, and keeping you sane on the day of. I very strongly recommend hiring a DOC for your wedding, because you're right, it's not fair to ask your mom and/or bridesmaids to do all that, and frankly, with only 2 hours to do it, they probably won't even have time, because they'll be getting ready with you, doing photos, etc...

My venue package included a DOC to run the event, but if it didn't, I absolutely would've hired someone else to do it all. The cost will vary greatly by your location.

I have someone that takes care of that stuff included with my venue. How long it will take depends on how many tables you have and how difficult the centerpiece is. We have a simple mirror to put a square vase filled with pearls and roses on and only 4 tables so it's not a huge task lol. If you have 30 tables and more to arrange it will be harder.

I will have 10 tables, and my centerpiece is a little complicated.. (attached picture). I believe the venue said they will have a person there coordinating things, I'm just not sure to what extent they will coordinate before things get more expensive, or just not done..

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Are you hiring a florist to do those? They would set them up if you are.

Hi Karie!! I totally understand why you would want to hire a decorator! Setting up can be stressful especially with the timing of everything. If you would like to have everyone as stress-free and relaxed as possible then hiring a decorator may be beneficial. This will allow someone to get the job done and your mom and bridesmaids will be readily available for whatever you may need! Some couples choose to hire decorators, the day of coordinators, and also planners to set up the venue for the reception. Pricing typically varies depending on location, time, and the services being provided. There's an awesome thread in the community that I think you'll benefit from with couples this same topic and their experiences.

Decorator - community thread

View Quoted Comment I am not, my grandma is a retired florist, so she is making them. But her mobility is limited so she cannot help set up.

View Quoted Comment Thank you, I will look into this. Most everything in my wedding will be DIY to keep cost down. So hopefully I can find someone on the cheaper side.

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Oh got it!! Yes, it's definitely something to look into!

A day of coordinator would do this. Since your budget is limited, it’s not as pricey as a full or partial wedding planner. You mentioned being on a budget, maybe you can check facebook & see if there are any budget bride groups w/ local planner vendors available!

Good idea Charrell!

A day of coordinator, or also a close friend or family member that is not in the wedding party should be able to help! Assuming you don't have huge amounts of tables/decorations, it really shouldn't take that long so I don't think you need to hire someone specifically to decorate.

For our wedding, the caterer is in charge of setting up tables & chairs & linens & china. Our flowers will be set up by our florist. All other decor (signs, etc.) will be set up by our coordinator! So depending on what a decorator cost, it may be cheaper to hire a coordinator to help with set up because then you get even more help throughout the day!

2 hours is not much time at all... you may need a few hands on deck to assist with setting this all up!