You've spent months choosing the details: the florals, the menu, the music, the people you love most. Then the wedding day arrives, and someone has to make sure all of it actually comes together. That's where a day-of wedding coordinator comes in.
At J Gathered, coordination is one of the services we love most. Here's what a coordinator really does, and why so many couples across Minneapolis, St. Paul and the Twin Cities choose to have one.
"Day-of" Really Means "Month-of"
The name is a little misleading. A good day-of wedding coordinator doesn't show up for the first time on your wedding morning. We step in several weeks ahead to learn your plans, review your vendor contracts and build a timeline that works.
By the time your day arrives, we know your vision as well as you do. That preparation is what lets everything feel effortless.
What a Day-of Wedding Coordinator Handles
Before the wedding
Building your timeline. We create a detailed schedule, from hair and makeup to the last dance, and share it with every vendor.
Confirming vendors. We reach out to your florist, caterer, photographer, DJ and others to confirm arrival times, setup needs and contacts.
Walking through the space. We review your venue layout so we know where everything goes and how guests will move through the day.
Running the rehearsal. We lead your ceremony rehearsal so your wedding party knows exactly where to be and when.
On the wedding day
Being the point of contact. Vendors come to us with questions, not you or your family.
Setting the finishing details. Place cards, signage, favors, guest book and the personal touches you've gathered all land exactly where you pictured them.
Keeping the day on schedule. We cue the processional, the entrances, toasts and the cake cutting so the evening flows naturally.
Quietly solving problems. A late delivery or a missing boutonniere gets handled before you ever hear about it.
Wrapping up. We help make sure your personal items, gifts and cards are gathered and go home with the right people.
Why Twin Cities Couples Love Having One
You get to be present
Your wedding day goes by fast. With a coordinator in place, you can stay in the moment with your partner and your guests instead of checking the clock or answering vendor questions.
Your family gets to be guests
Without a coordinator, those jobs often fall to a parent, sibling or close friend. Having us there means the people you love can relax and celebrate too.
Your planning is protected
You've made a real investment of time, money and heart in your wedding. A coordinator makes sure the details you chose are carried out the way you imagined.
Local knowledge helps
We work across Minneapolis, St. Paul and the surrounding communities. Knowing the area helps with practical things like travel time between a ceremony and reception, or planning around Minnesota weather for outdoor moments.
Is Day-of Coordination Right for You?
Day-of coordination is a great fit if you've enjoyed planning yourself and have your main vendors booked, but want a professional to carry it across the finish line. If you'd like guidance from the very start, including design and vendor selection, our Full Planning & Styling service may be a better match.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a day-of wedding coordinator cost?
At J Gathered, Coordination & Finishing Details starts at $1,800. Full Planning & Styling starts at $6,000. Your final investment depends on your date, guest count and the details you'd like us to take on.
When should we book a day-of coordinator?
We recommend reaching out as soon as you have your date and venue set. Popular Twin Cities wedding dates book early, and connecting sooner gives us time to get to know your plans.
What's the difference between a wedding planner and a day-of coordinator?
A wedding planner guides you through the whole process, from setting your investment and choosing vendors to design. A day-of coordinator steps in near the end to finalize the details and run the wedding day.
Do you coordinate rehearsal dinners and other wedding events?
Yes. We also help with rehearsal dinners, welcome parties, bridal showers and other celebrations around your wedding weekend.
Let's Make Your Day Feel Effortless
Your wedding should feel like a celebration, not a to-do list. If you're planning a wedding in Minneapolis, St. Paul or anywhere in the Twin Cities, we'd love to hear about it.