Really, these two individuals work quite synergistically together and do not compete against each other at all. However, many brides don’t know the difference between the two and cannot decipher between them at all except for maybe their titles. Mostly unique to resort areas around the country and in the mountain regions, catering managers often play a "wedding planners" role, but only up to a certain point. Let me explain.
We all know what the stereotypical planner will do; we have all seen the movie, "Father of the Bride". Really, your planner’s duties can have no limits, but, your catering manager’s just might. Destination weddings do really require a planner at some level to help a bride who just isn’t around to do all the little things that need to be done. Local wedding planners get to know on-site catering managers personally as they work with them over and over at their resort. Starting to become a little clearer? If not, read on.
The catering manager’s title doesn’t really do the job justice. In fact, they do quite a bit more than just manage the catering of your wedding. This is why it is so easy for a bride to become confused. They will often answer questions about processionals, music selection, lodging etc…and really, they can answer very knowledgably because after all, they see many weddings each season at their resort and are just sharing their expertise with you. But ask them to facilitate your rehearsal and you might get an answer you weren’t quite expecting. The fact remains, catering managers really represent the property and not the bride. As one catering manager put it…"If I do my job very well, I shouldn’t have to be at the ceremony/reception and will be a phone call away." Now often times they are around but to your surprise (and hopefully not after reading this article) they may not be managing your every wish, but are there to make sure the property is doing what was promised and that the kitchen is properly staffed and things are flowing smoothly with the AV set-up for the slideshow!
There certainly is some overlap, however, our best advise to you is to interview your catering Manager well and have them identify where their duties end and where you will need to pick things up with your wedding planner. Remember, when you are back in the big city working during the months leading up to the big day, if you hire your wedding planner locally, she will be back in Colorado making sure everything is getting done the way you would want it to. And guaranteed, he/she is meeting and chatting regularly with your on-site catering manager working over all the details.
Bottom line…you need them both!
Written by: The girls at www.RockyMountainBridalConsultants.com