We are looking to hire both a wedding coordinator to oversee the entire day and a master of ceremonies (MC) to run the reception. The closer our wedding date gets, the more I feel the itch to solicit the aid of professionals. Quite honestly, if we were having a smaller wedding, I would feel more comfortable handling it myself or having friends and family help me. However, we are expecting close to 250 guests of all different ages, cultures and backgrounds. We will have several vendors coming and going throughout the course of the day. We need professional help!

In terms of a coordinator, we will be looking for a simple package: “day of” coordination, basic familiarity with our list of vendors, a positive attitude, and a willingness to handle and manage the day. I really don’t want someone who will be in my hair every other minute, as I know that will just make me more nervous and anxiety ridden. I have started doing research and have found that I should be able to find these services in Los Angeles in the price range of $900 to $1200. This usually includes day of coordination, 2 or 3 meetings prior to the wedding (may or may not include a tour of your venue), unlimited email communication, and help with things like the rehearsal/rehearsal dinner and vendor coordination.

In terms of the MC, we want to hire a combination DJ/MC. In addition, we have a somewhat unique situation. I don’t know if I mentioned it, but almost half of our guest list will be Mr. G’s parents’ friends. Rather than get into a long winded post about why this is the case, I’ll resist my urge to complain and present the facts. Many of the friends of the Glitters-in-law speak Korean as their first language. They understand English, but they feel most comfortable speaking Korean. I want a MC that will be sensitive to this situation and plan accordingly. An ideal MC doesn’t need to speak Korean, but they also won’t talk to the crowd like they’re idiots (i.e. speaking slowly and loudly). I hate when people do that. In the same vein, the MC will also need to connect with the other half of the crowd. These guests will be our friends and my side of the family who will not have language or cultural barrier issues.

Wow, I already feel sorry for our future DJ/MC. We have done some research into this and feel we can hire a fabulous and culturally sensitive DJ/MC in Los Angeles for about $1000 to $1100. These packages usually include one or two prior meetings to plan the music and review the wedding schedule, all sound equipment, basic lighting, and microphones. The MC would also review all of the names of the wedding party and other announced parties prior to the wedding to ensure correct pronunciation.

We have a budget of about $2000 ($1000 each) for both of these vendors. I hope we can make it work!

Will you hire a wedding coordinator? Will you hire a MC? If you wouldn’t mind divulging, about how much are you planning to spend?