Do I need a Wedding Coordinator or a Wedding Planner?
Coordinators and planners and designers, oh my! In the world of wedding planning, the different terms and what each one means can be pretty daunting. Between wedding planners, wedding coordinators, and even wedding designers, what is the difference and who’s the best for your needs? Let’s break it down.
Wedding Coordinator
While each wedding business will have their own packages here are some typical duties of a wedding coordinator. A wedding coordinator, also known as a “Day-of ” or “Month-Of Coordinator,” typically steps in to help 2-3 months prior to your big day. Wedding coordinators lead a final walk through meeting to make sure everyone on your vendor team is on the same page. They will tie up any loose ends and make sure no details have been overlooked. When most people think of wedding coordinators, they think of the person in the background of a wedding day, running around to keep everything in check and on schedule, which is exactly right!
On the day of, your wedding coordinator will be in charge of making sure everyone is where they need to be, when they need to be there. Whether it’s your dad is ready for the first dance or making sure your photographer is camera ready to capture the cake cutting. Your wedding will be sure to flow flawlessly with the help of your wedding coordinator.
A wedding coordinator might be your best match if you’re basically ready to tie the knot, and you just need someone to be there on the big day to take the lead so you can truly enjoy the moment. You want your loved ones to relax and enjoy the day just as much so you, so coordinator can be the one to oversee decor set up and direct vendors as they arrive. If you’re already done with wedding planning and you don’t want to spend your wedding day worrying about all of the details, a wedding coordinator is a must for you!
Wedding Planner
A wedding planner is essentially the next step up and are with you throughout the whole planning process. From deciding on a venue, to managing the grand exit at your wedding and everything in between. From creating and managing your budget, to outlining your entire planning process – your planner will be there to take care of every worry. Wedding planers take care of all the not-so-fun things about wedding planning such as vendor research and logistics. We will recommend the perfect vendors match based on your style, personality and budget. Wedding planners know that their vendor recommendations are a reflection of themselves so you can have peace of mind each vendor referred is reputable and trustworthy. Your planner will keep you on track with wedding planning by checking in with you periodically and being available via phone or email to answer any urgent questions or concerns.
As wedding planners, we know how stressful planning a wedding can be, so we take that stress on for you! On top of crafting all the details of your big day, your wedding planner will also be your “Day Of Coordinator.” On the big day, your planner will greet you first thing in the morning, help you make your way down the aisle, and clean up the mess after the reception.
Wedding planners are best for couples who are overwhelmed or too busy to plan their wedding. You want to sit back, relax, and know that your special day is in the hands of professionals who have your best interest at heart.
Wedding Designer
Wedding designers don’t always double as planners, though some planners do offer design services – that’s us! Regardless, wedding designers can play a crucial role in your wedding day by organizing all of your wedding aesthetic details. Your designer will sit down with you and gather an in depth idea of your vision – do you have a theme in mind, what colors appeal to you, are there any unique details you are dying to include? Based on your wishes, they’ll put together a comprehensive plan, often in the form of a design board, and provide suggestions of where to acquire these details from other vendors.
Generally, designers will not be providing your floral arrangements, decor, rental furniture, etc. However, they can attend meetings regarding design such as floral, rentals, and stationery to ensure that every vendor is on board with your design vision. Your designer will oversee every detail, from your Save-The-Date cards to the flatware your guests will use to eat their meal, making sure each part of your wedding is absolutely perfect.
Designers are essential if the look of your wedding and guest experience is high for you. If you aren’t the most design-savvy and the thought of picking out colors and decor for your wedding overwhelms you, a wedding designer will be your best friend! Your designer will cover every single detail and make sure your entire day is cohesively stunning. Bonus points if you can get design services through your planner, a two in one deal!
At the end of the day, every wedding professional’s goal is to make your wedding day perfect for you and your new spouse. We work tirelessly on your behalf so that you can soak up every moment of love instead of worrying about the not-so-fun details like budget management or knowing what time your vendors should arrive for set-up. The level of involvement you’re expecting and the tasks you need help with, will determine which professional service is best fit for you.
If you’re ready for a wedding planner to help plan your day or need further guidance on which is the best fit for you. Click here to send us an inquiry and let’s get this planning party started!
Bianca Nichole Events is a wedding planner in Austin, and will travel to San Antonio, Fredericksburg and the surrounding Texas Hill Country area.
