Should You Go For a Wedding Planner or a Wedding Coordinator for Your Big Day? 

When wedding planning begins, most couples realize that organizing a bridal celebration is much more than it appears. There are many decisions to make and numerous tasks to complete, so it can easily get overwhelming. Somewhere along the way of planning, you might start to question the big debate yourself – wedding planner vs wedding coordinator. 

Before you decide, you should know the differences between these two vendors, along with some factors to consider. Here, we have done the comparison for you, so you can pick easily without hesitation. 

Wedding Planner Duties 

Wedding planners are real superheroes when it comes to organizing a bridal celebration. It is mainly because they do all the tasks for you, which is especially convenient if you have a busy schedule. If you choose a wedding planner, you will need someone to whom you can effectively communicate all your ideas. Then, they will execute everything just the way you want it for your special day. 

Moreover, hiring a wedding event planner means having all the necessary connections to vendors and possible discounts. These people are skilled in their work, so they can easily get you what you desire. Plus, they will be by your side from the beginning until the end, so you will have someone to rely on at all times. 

However, you need to be aware that hiring a wedding planner would mean 10-15% of your budget. Therefore, you should decide whether your costs can allow this before getting this vendor. On the other hand, this investment can save you lots of money in the long run since they not only save you time but provide you with cost-effective solutions for all other vendors. And we mentioned specialty discounts too!

Here is a short overview of the planner’s duties:

• Negotiates with and hires vendors
• Schedules meetings 
• Handles vendor payments
• Manages the budget
• Creates floor plans and timelines 
• Monitors all activities from beginning to end of the wedding

Wedding Coordinator Duties

The wedding coordinator is concerned about the duties a month before the wedding. They might help you with some vendors you might need in the last month. Alternatively, you may also find a day of wedding coordinator useful – basically, they ensure that everything runs seamlessly as the big day arrives. Simply put, the duties of wedding coordinators are mainly oriented toward the execution of the celebration. In addition, they can manage the final payments and handle the guest list counts. In other words, their main responsibility is to monitor that everything goes according to the plan you have created for your union. 

Their ultimate task is to ensure that the wedding day goes as you have imagined. The wedding coordinator will give cues to your musicians, photographers, and other vendors you have for your event. Namely, they will ensure that you do not feel stressed during your big day so you can enjoy it to the fullest. 

Here is a short overview of the coordinator’s duties:

• Manages and executes your wedding plan
• Creates timelines and floor plans
• Handles final payments
• Takes care of overlooked details 
• Oversees all operations on the wedding day 

Should You Hire a Planner or a Coordinator? 

So, let’s settle the debate of wedding planner vs wedding coordinator! 

When choosing between a wedding planner or a wedding coordinator, you should focus on your needs. If you do not have time to plan your entire celebration and your budget allows a planner, then this vendor can help you a lot. On the other hand, if you want to be fully involved in the planning, you can choose a coordinator to help you in the last month of the preparations.

Whether you go for a wedding planner or a day of coordinator, ensure that your required needs are met. We are talking about the most special day of your life, so you do not want any unfortunate situations. Therefore, look into your requirements carefully, and make the choice that makes you happy! 

If you need some more wedding advice, don’t forget to take a peek at our blog page.

Photography by Ali K – The Rutledge, Grand Rapids MI