“Planner” and “coordinator” get used interchangeably, but the services are very different. Knowing which you need can save thousands — or save the day.
The options
| Service | When they start | What they do | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service planner | 12+ months out | Budget, vendors, design, logistics, the day | Busy couples, big or complex weddings, destination weddings |
| Partial planner | 3–6 months out | Reviews your plan, fills gaps, runs the day | Couples who booked the basics but want expert help |
| Day-of coordinator | 4–8 weeks out | Confirms vendors, builds the timeline, runs rehearsal and the day | DIY planners |
| Venue coordinator | From booking | Venue spaces, venue staff and rules | Everyone — but it isn’t a planner |
The Knot’s 2026 study reported an average of about $2,100 for a wedding planner. Prices vary widely by service level and region.
What a day-of coordinator actually does
| When | What they handle |
|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks before | Review your contracts and plan; start confirming vendors |
| 2–4 weeks before | Build the timeline and floor plan; site visit |
| The rehearsal | Run the processional, readings and recessional |
| The day | Setup, vendor arrivals, cues, problems, décor packing, gifts and cards |
Questions to ask
Can you skip it?
Yes, if someone who is not in the wedding party (and not your mother) takes on the role properly: they have the timeline, every vendor’s number, the authority to decide small things and no other job that day.
How to choose
Read recent reviews, ask for a sample timeline, and check that they carry liability insurance. Make sure the contract says who will attend, for how many hours, and what happens if they are ill. Meet in person or on video: you should feel calmer after talking to them, not busier.
General information, not legal, medical or financial advice. Confirm details with your vendors, venue, officiant and local authorities.
Questions people ask
What is the difference between a wedding planner and a coordinator?
A planner helps plan the wedding from early on; a coordinator executes the plan in the final weeks and on the day.
Is a venue coordinator enough?
Usually not. They manage the venue and its staff, not your other vendors or your timeline.
How much does a day-of coordinator cost?
It varies widely by region and experience. Ask several for their packages and what is included.
When should you hire a wedding planner?
Book a full-service planner a year or more ahead, before most other vendors. A day-of coordinator is usually booked two to four months before the wedding.
Does a wedding planner save money?
Sometimes — through vendor knowledge, negotiated rates and avoiding expensive mistakes — but it isn’t guaranteed. Hire one mainly for time, expertise and calm.
