Day-of Wedding Coordinator vs. Full Planner — Which Do You Actually Need?

Planning your wedding can feel like a full-time job. Between venue tours, vendor emails, budgets, timelines, and design choices, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why so many couples consider hiring help. But here’s the big question: Do you need a full wedding planner, or just a day-of coordinator?

These roles sound similar, but they’re actually very different — and choosing the right one can save you stress, time, and money. Let’s break it down.

What a Full Wedding Planner Does

A full-service wedding planner works with you from the very beginning of your engagement until the last guest leaves the dance floor.

Here’s what a planner typically handles:

• Creating and managing your budget
• Recommending and booking vendors
• Designing your wedding style and décor
• Reviewing and negotiating contracts
• Keeping your planning timeline on track
• Being your point of contact for questions and decisions
• Coordinating the entire wedding day

Best for couples who:

• Are busy with careers or school
• Feel overwhelmed by details
• Are planning from out-of-town
• Want someone to take the reins so they can simply enjoy the process

A planner is your partner, guide, and problem-solver from day one.

What a Day-of Coordinator Does

A day-of coordinator steps in closer to your wedding date (often 4–6 weeks out) and takes all the planning work you’ve done, then makes sure it’s executed flawlessly.

Here’s what a coordinator typically handles:

• Reviewing vendor contracts and confirming final details
• Creating your wedding day timeline
• Running your rehearsal
• Directing vendors and setup on the wedding day
• Solving problems behind the scenes so you don’t have to
• Keeping the flow of the day on track

Best for couples who:

• Love planning but don’t want to “work” on their wedding day
• Have most of their details organized
• Want peace of mind knowing someone will manage vendors and logistics

Think of a coordinator as your wedding-day manager, making sure your hard work pays off without stress.

How to Decide Which is Right for You

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I enjoy planning or does it feel overwhelming?
• Do I have the time to manage vendors and details?
• Do I want help creating the vision or just making sure the day runs smoothly?

If you want a partner for the entire journey → choose a full planner.

If you’ve done the work but want someone to bring it all together → a coordinator is the perfect fit.

Final Thoughts

Both roles are incredibly valuable — it just depends on your needs, personality, and budget. The good news? Whether you choose a full planner or a day-of coordinator, you’ll save yourself stress and actually get to enjoy your engagement and wedding day.

✨ Not sure which is right for you? Let’s chat about your wedding vision — I’ll help you figure out the perfect fit.