What Does a Wedding Coordinator vs a Wedding Planner Do?
Summary
A wedding coordinator and a wedding planner both play important roles in creating a smooth and memorable wedding, but their responsibilities differ. A wedding planner typically helps couples with the entire planning process, from budgeting and vendor selection to overall design, while a wedding coordinator focuses on executing the plans, managing the wedding day timeline, and ensuring everything runs seamlessly. Couples may choose one or both depending on their needs and budget.
When planning a wedding, many couples wonder whether they need a wedding planner, a wedding coordinator, or both. While the roles overlap, they serve different purposes in helping couples achieve their dream day. Below, we’ll break down the main differences between wedding coordinators and wedding planners so you can decide which is right for you.
What Does a Wedding Planner Do?
A wedding planner is responsible for guiding couples through the entire wedding process from start to finish. They work months (or even a year) in advance to bring the couple’s vision to life.
Planners help couples stay organized, manage their budget, and connect with trusted vendors. They also often assist with the creative side of weddings, such as design themes, décor ideas, and overall event flow. Their role is big-picture and detail-oriented, ensuring every part of the planning process is covered.
Here are some common responsibilities of a wedding planner:
Creating and managing a wedding budget
Recommending and booking vendors (caterers, florists, photographers, etc.)
Designing and coordinating the wedding style and theme
Overseeing contracts and negotiations with vendors
Planning the wedding day schedule and logistics in advance
What Does a Wedding Coordinator Do?
A wedding coordinator is focused on executing all the plans the couple has already put in place. Unlike planners, coordinators usually step in a few weeks or a month before the wedding to finalize details and manage the actual event.
They act as the point person on the wedding day, making sure vendors arrive on time, the ceremony and reception flow smoothly, and any unexpected issues are handled discreetly. This ensures that the couple and their families can enjoy the day stress-free.
Here’s a quick table comparing the main differences between a wedding coordinator and a wedding planner:
| Role | Wedding Planner | Wedding Coordinator |
|---|---|---|
| Timeline of Involvement | Starts months to a year before | Joins a few weeks before |
| Main Focus | Planning and design | Execution and management |
| Key Duties | Budgeting, vendor booking, design ideas | Timeline execution, vendor coordination |
| Creativity | High – helps design the wedding vision | Low – executes existing plans |
| Day-of Role | Oversees vision but may not run all details | Manages the full wedding day logistics |
Need help deciding whether a wedding planner, a coordinator, or both are right for your big day? Contact us today to learn more about your options and how we can make your wedding stress-free and unforgettable.
FAQ
1. Do I need both a planner and a coordinator?
Not necessarily, it depends on your budget, timeline, and how much help you need.
2. How early should I hire a wedding planner?
Most couples hire a planner 9–12 months before the wedding.
3. When should I hire a wedding coordinator?
A coordinator usually comes on board about 4–6 weeks before the wedding.
4. Is a planner more expensive than a coordinator?
Yes, because planners work for a longer period and offer more comprehensive services.
5. Can a wedding planner also act as a coordinator?
Yes, many planners offer both planning and day-of coordination services.