Types of Wedding Planners & Coordinators: Finding the Right Fit for You
Whenever I meet a bride, I have a go-to conversation to ensure she’s getting the wedding day support she needs and expects. I have this conversation almost every time someone visits our booth at bridal shows. As an educator at heart, I love breaking down information so it’s easy to digest—even for someone who’s just beginning to put their wedding planning puzzle together. Think of it as a friendly flowchart, guiding us through their needs.
The first question I ask is whether they’re interested in hiring a wedding coordinator. If the answer is no, I explain why having one is essential for pulling together all their hard work and ensuring a stress-free day. If they mention that a family member or friend will act as their coordinator, we talk about the importance of letting loved ones enjoy the day instead of working through it—and why hiring a professional is a better option.
If they are interested in having a coordinator, the conversation shifts to what type of help they need. I explain that the wedding industry typically categorizes planners and coordinators into three types: full planners, partial planners, and day or month-of coordinators. Some businesses offer all three packages, while others, like MADE Weddings and Events, specialize in one. It’s important for every couple to understand these tiers to make an informed choice.
Here’s the breakdown:
Full Planners Full planners are brought on very early in the planning process. They handle everything from start to finish, including planning your wedding, scheduling initial vendor meetings, attending all subsequent meetings, designing, and styling your event. Essentially, they’re your planning partner every step of the way.
Partial Planners Partial planners join the team after some of the work has been done, typically a few months before the wedding. They help finalize details, book any remaining vendors, and tie up loose ends to bring your wedding vision to life. Think of them as your trusty co-pilot for the final stretch.
Day or Month-of Coordinators These coordinators step in after all vendors have been booked and your wedding vision has been established. They meet with you to understand your plans, help resolve any lingering issues, and ensure your big day runs like clockwork. They’re the ones who take all of your thoughtful planning and turn it into a seamlessly organized event.
Of course, not every planner or coordinator fits neatly into these categories. Some have unique niches, such as elopement, destination, or micro wedding planning, offering services tailored to specific needs.
When deciding what’s best for you, here are a few questions to consider:
Does planning a wedding sound exciting or overwhelming?
Are organization and attention to detail strengths for you or your partner?
Would having a wedding professional on your team ease the process?
Does your budget allow for hiring a professional?
In my opinion, if your budget allows, hiring a planner or coordinator is worth every penny. Troubleshooting wedding day hiccups—like a toppled cake, a sudden need to move an outdoor ceremony indoors, or coordinating an entire wedding party down the aisle—is priceless. You shouldn’t have to stress over those things; that’s our job.
At MADE Weddings and Events, we specialize in Wedding Day Management. While it aligns most closely with day or month-of coordination, we add a little extra razzle-dazzle to make your day extraordinary. Visit our website to learn more about how we can make your wedding unforgettable!