Wedding planner vs wedding coordinator—what’s the difference? Learn which one is right for your needs, budget, and wedding day vision.
- Corrie Slagle
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting—and overwhelming—experiences of your life. Between selecting the perfect venue, managing vendors, and keeping everything on schedule, many couples quickly realize they need help. That’s where wedding planners and wedding coordinators come in. But what's the difference between the two—and which one is right for you?
In this guide, we’ll break down the key roles of a wedding planner vs wedding coordinator, so you can decide who best fits your needs (and budget).
What Does a Wedding Planner Do?
A wedding planner is your go-to expert for the entire wedding process—from the moment you get engaged until the final guest leaves the reception.
Wedding Planner Responsibilities:
Helps develop your wedding vision and style
Creates and manages your budget
Recommends and books vendors
Assists with venue selection
Manages timelines and logistics
Attends meetings and handles contracts
Offers guidance on etiquette and traditions
A planner is ideal if:
You have a long planning timeline (6+ months)
You’re planning a destination wedding
You have a busy schedule and want full support
You’re starting from scratch and feel overwhelmed
What Does a Wedding Coordinator Do?
A wedding coordinator, often called a “day-of coordinator,” steps in closer to the big day—usually about 4-6 weeks before your wedding.
Wedding Coordinator Responsibilities:
Reviews vendor contracts you’ve already signed
Finalizes the wedding timeline
Confirms details with vendors
Runs the rehearsal
Manages the wedding day schedule
Troubleshoots any issues behind the scenes
A coordinator is perfect if:
You’ve already done most of the planning yourself
You want someone to run the show on the day-of
You have a limited budget but still need professional help
You want peace of mind without full-time planning assistance
Wedding Planner vs Wedding Coordinator: Key Differences
Feature | Wedding Planner | Wedding Coordinator |
Timeline | Start to finish | Final 4-6 weeks |
Level of Involvement | High | Moderate |
Budget Help | Yes | No |
Vendor Booking | Yes | No |
Day-Of Management | Yes | Yes |
Best For | Busy couples or complex weddings | DIY couples or simple weddings |
So, Which One Do You Need?
Ask yourself:
How much time do I have to plan?
How confident do I feel managing vendors and logistics?
Is my wedding simple or more elaborate?
Do I want someone to guide me every step—or just on the big day?
👉 If you're looking for full-service support from beginning to end, a wedding planner is worth the investment.
👉 If you've already planned the wedding and just need someone to bring it all together, a wedding coordinator may be the perfect fit.
Final Thoughts
Both roles are incredibly valuable depending on your needs. Whether you choose a wedding planner, a coordinator, or even both, having a professional by your side ensures you can enjoy your special day stress-free.
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