Q:  When should you hire a wedding coordinator?

A:  Select a coordinator a year out from your wedding date or 6-7 months at the very latest.  Given ample enough time to plan, will help in pulling off an affair to remember. 

Q:  Should you hire a part-time or full-time coordinator?  

A.  If you are willing to do the legwork yourself, meet and negotiate with vendors, coordinate schedules, have time to visit sites etc., then consider hiring a coordinator for the "day-of."
If you prefer someone who will take care of everything from soup to nuts---  a full-time coordinator will get the job done.

Make sure you and the coordinator are both clear on the exact services she will provide, and what will be charged for ala carte services. 

3 things a coordinator can do--- 

---Be a trusted negotiator when conflict arises between you and your vendors.  

---Manage emotions.  

---Assist in taking care of the last minute details