Do we need a DOC?

Hi ladies I just wanted to ask a question since you guys have great advice.

FH and I went to see the reception hall set up for a wedding. We loved this RH when we saw it empty, and this was the first time we saw it being set up for a wedding. We arrived at 10:15 and the wedding was supposed to start at 12:00.

There were catering vans in the front of the mansion (the bride is getting married on the front lawn). Guests were arriving at 10 and there was no one to direct them where to go (FH and I were talking in an area and guests were confused so we directed them to the foyer entrance), the catering company was running around, napkins were still being folded, all the doors were open so guests can see the place being set up.

FH is scared that this is going to happen to us. We did not book the place yet. We're not sure if its a good idea. I know FH is dying to get married here but if we use their coordinator will the same thing happen to us? I was telling FH that maybe we could get a wedding planner or DOC, so they could help move things along.

So the question is should we book with them and hope for the best? Hire a coordinator? Or run away and never look back?

Thanks ladies in advance. I hope my rambling made sense.

this depends on the type of hall it is...

if it's a hall that does all the catering on the premises and have all the equipment (i.e. chairs, tables, linens, etc.) , then i would say no... the catering hall people take care of everything. they will direct the band or DJ, etc. etc. baquet managers know how to handle the visiting entertainment, florists, etc. and all the other people that may arrive to set up.

if it's a place where you have to being in all the food, booze, chairs, linens, etc. etc. etc. then it might not be a bad idea to have a DOC who can handle all those details for you.