Rounding out the introductions in the “Meet Our Team” series is the group that spends the most time with our clients working through the details for each event. The “heartbeat” of the planning process is made possible by our Event Coordinators, Day-Of Coordinators, and Office Admin. This team of ladies (no discrimination here fellas, they just all happen to be female) help each of our client’s make the numerous decisions related to the venue, floor plan/setup, catering selections, etc.
So, here are the formal introductions:
Chere Velazquez – Event Coordinator & Day-Of Coordinator
Jordan Miller – Event Coordinator & Day-Of Coordinator
Katie Swain – Office Admin, Day-Of Coordinator & Catering Coordinator
Meg Henson – Day-Of Coordinator & Catering Coordinator
While all of the ladies can be contracted as a Day-Of Coordinator for an event, you are likely to find Jordan or Chere in the office during the week answering client questions and emails. Million-dollar smiles aside, what you will find about our entire team is a seriously proficient, veteran crew of event day problem-solvers who help make the event a seamless success.
A little about Chere…I have been with 128 South and Bakery 105 for almost 4 years now and time really does fly when you love what you do! I really enjoy getting to meet with all of our Bride & Groom’s but what I love the most is the moment they walk into the venue and they see everything for the first time, the look on their face is priceless! I am truly honored to be trusted with such an important and beautiful day in their lives!
A little about Jordan…I am going on my third year on staff at 128 South/ Bakery 105. I started working in the office part time as a office admin while going to school for my degree in Hospitality Management. I have since then graduated and am now on staff full time as an event coordinator. My favorite part about my job is the joy I receive in helping our clients create an event that is truly memorable and then seeing that event come to life.
A little about Katie…A wife and mother of three wonderful boys I first started working at 128 South as a server six years ago . Since then, I have now worked my way up the ranks from server to catering coordinator and now a new addition to the Day-Of Coordinator team and Office Admin. I love that I get to develop a personal relationship with each client – I feel that it is truly the key to making each event a unique and special affair to remember. And, I’m very detail-oriented person. This helps me focus on even the smallest aspects (that sometimes turn out to be the most important) when I’m helping you create the day of your dreams.
A little about Meg…I began dabbling in event coordination in 2006 with a dear friend’s wedding and was immediately drawn to the process. I have worked for 128 South/Bakery 105 since 2012. Having worked for several venues in town, 128 South is, by far, my favorite! The teamwork mentality of the staff enables us to go above and beyond and have a good time doing it.
What we do?
We handle everything from floor plans, timelines, menu selections to vendor recommendations. If our Day of Coordinating services are contracted, we take it even further with final vendor confirmations prior to the wedding, we coordinate & compile a timeline of vendor arrival and pick up times, we develop wedding day Itinerary and distribute to applicable vendors, we direct the rehearsal and the ceremony, we coordinate the wedding party, we handle set up and break down of personal decor, and oversee all details of the event on the day.
What’s the difference between Event Coordinator vs. Day-Of Coordinator?
This may be a little over simplified…but in a nutshell, the Event Coordinators help with the decisions leading up to the event related to the venue and catering. The Day-Of Coordinator will actually be present on the day of the event to oversee the event execution.
Why is a Day-Of Coordinator helpful/important on a bride’s wedding day?
The peace of mind afforded to the bride and groom on their big day is the number one reason to choose a day of coordinator.
What is the one thing every bride/client should consider when planning their event?
Decide on the three most important things to you and focus on them. Everyone one has their own opinions on what they would do but your opinion is what matters the most!
What’s your favorite trend (or trends) you see the brides doing these days?
We are loving the increase in dessert and doughnut bars with the small cake to cut. It really gives your guests a variety to choose from.
On the big day, what’s the one piece of advice you have for brides/clients?
STOP, take a breathe and take it all in! Let the professional that you have hired do what they do so you and your family get to enjoy every moment!!
If you’re interested in hosting an event at 128 South or Bakery 105, please contact us at 910.399.1709 or email us at events@128southevents.com.