The event industry is constantly changing and continues to grow in popularity as people’s lives are on overdrive. They can’t take the extra time to plan an upcoming event, or they don’t need the added stress. Often, in this line of work, there are several terms used that are misunderstood or defined loosely. Certain words or even job titles can mean different things to different people. An easy example of this is the word “event” in which some people will interpret it to be a birthday party, business conference, wedding, sporting game, and the list goes on. These varying descriptions can be confusing in the event industry and so can job titles, such as “event planner” verse “event coordinator.” What is it precisely that separates these two careers?
Choosing an Event Planner
No matter the type of event you are in the process of planning, whether it is a social or corporate gathering, an event planner is not a “party planner.” Throwing a grand party may seem like the profession’s main job goal but it’s not nearly as simple as that. The first step in event planning is to visualize the big picture and understand the purpose of the occasion and how to achieve it. The planner oversees making critical decisions such as who, what, where, when, and why factors of the event. An event planner communicates directly with the customer to incorporate their vision to create an affair that aligns with the client’s needs and budget. After the initial meeting, the planner will select a venue, entertainment, and discuss menu options, among other things. This career holds a considerable amount of responsibilities to ensure that the event is everything the customer is expecting.
Hiring an Event Coordinator
A coordinator, on the other hand, is responsible in making sure all the details are carried out smoothly with each vendor showing up on time and that they provide the services correctly. This specific job is typically a milestone in becoming an event planner down the line. An event coordinator requires skills such as excellent written and verbal communication and the ability to work well with others since the central portion of their job is to collaborate with vendors, their clients, and guests at the party. Once an event planner has completed the vision of the event, the coordinator can step in and provide management to the individual components to guarantee it goes smoothly. Event coordinators are hired for specific lengths of time during the planning process, whether it’s from day one of planning or if needing extra assistance on the actual day for several hours.
Which Professional to Select
Although the two roles are very different from each other, they often work hand in hand. As discussed earlier, many event planners early on are trained as event coordinators and depending on the level of expertise your event requires will help you decide which option will be best for your needs. Both professions have similar skill sets; well organized, creative, and can work well under pressure. No matter if an item turns up missing or a vendor is running late, or if an outdoor event has a sudden downpour of rain – your professional will be able to help guide your event to a successful and memorable day.
Event Planning DC provides full event planning, partial event planning, wedding planning, month-of (day-of) event coordination, event styling/design, and decorating services throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia. With access to local and national vendors who may provide additional services suitable for your event and budget, we pride ourselves in delivering only the highest quality event coordination. We promise to give you and your guests the perfect day, no matter what the occasion, including exclusive corporate and non-profit events, weddings, Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, community events, and milestone celebrations. For more information, visit https://www.eventplanningdc.com.