Day of Coordinating vs. Day of Decorating
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Day of Coordinating vs. Day of Decorating
Why They Are Two Very Different Jobs
When planning a wedding, it is common to assume that day of coordinating and day of decorating are the same service. While they often work alongside one another, they are two separate roles with very different responsibilities. Understanding the difference helps set clear expectations and ensures your wedding day runs smoothly. At Southern Made Rentals, we offer both services, but they are booked separately because each role requires its own time, focus, and staffing.
What Is Day of Coordinating?
Day of coordinating focuses on logistics, timelines, and people management. A day of coordinator ensures your wedding day flows as planned and that you are not fielding questions or managing problems.
Common coordinating responsibilities include:
• Creating and managing the wedding day timeline
• Communicating with vendors and confirming arrival times
• Directing the ceremony processional and key moments
• Managing transitions between events
• Assisting with last-minute changes or issues
• Keeping the couple on schedule and stress-free
A coordinator’s role is not physical setup or styling. Their priority is organization and execution, not decor installation.
What Is Day of Decorating?
Day of decorating is the hands-on setup and breakdown of wedding decor. This role involves physically installing and styling design elements to bring your vision to life.
Decorating responsibilities typically include:
•Setting up ceremony decor such as arches and aisle pieces
• Installing backdrops, flower walls, or balloon displays
• Styling reception tables with linens, centerpieces, chargers, and candles
• Placing signage, welcome tables, and focal displays
•Adjusting layout and decor for balance and visual impact
•Tearing down decor at the end of the event
Decorating requires time, labor, and attention to detail and often takes place while other vendors are arriving and setup is underway.
Important Note About DIY Decor
Many couples choose to include personal or DIY decor elements, such as signage, favors, photo displays, or handmade centerpieces. While we love seeing these thoughtful touches, it is important to understand that DIY setup is not part of day of coordinating.
A day of coordinator cannot pause timeline management, vendor communication, or ceremony duties to assemble, place, or style DIY items. This includes:
•Setting out favors or personal decor
•Assembling signage or centerpieces
• Styling welcome tables or memory displays
• Moving decor from ceremony to reception
If you plan to include DIY decor, you will need to:
•Assign a trusted friend or family member to handle setup, or
• Book day of decorating services so these items are professionally placed
This ensures nothing is missed and allows your coordinator to stay focused on keeping the day running smoothly.
Why One Role Cannot Cover Both
Coordinating and decorating often happen at the same time. Managing timelines and vendors while unloading decor, styling tables, and installing backdrops simply is not possible for one person.
Booking only one service does not automatically include the other, even if decor is minimal.
When You Should Book Both
Booking both day of coordinating and day of decorating is ideal if:
•You want a styled, cohesive look without DIY stress
• You are renting decor, florals, or specialty installations
• You want one professional team managing logistics and setup
•You want to fully enjoy your wedding day
Our Approach at Southern Made Rentals
We believe clarity creates calm. At Southern Made Rentals, we help you determine exactly which services fit your vision and needs. Whether you book coordinating, decorating, or both, our goal is to make sure your wedding day is beautifully designed and flawlessly executed.