Wedding Planner Vs. Wedding Coordinator: Which Do You Need?

This topic is one that we love for many reasons. As a couple planning your wedding, you will encounter these two terms early. There’s a chance that since you do not work in the wedding industry you could confuse them. Unveiled Events is a brand committed to couples so we’d love to help.

Or you might have read an article that seemed to use both wedding planner and day of coordinator interchangeably. So now you're asking yourself, "Which is right for my Milwaukee wedding?" Don’t be ashamed to ask, you are not alone.

You might also be in a third class of couples who already know what these two terms mean. All that's now left is for you to make your choice, but you’re not quite sure. Fret not, the answer to which you'll need lies in their description.

The Difference Between A Wedding Planner and a Day of Coordinator

A wedding planner is like your best friend, where your wedding is concerned. They are the most involved wedding professional that you'll use in your planning. They'll help take the stress of wedding planning off you. It is their duty to help with your planning and turn your wedding vision into reality.

Wedding coordinators, on the other hand, are mainly focused on your wedding day itself. They'll, however, also help with your wedding planning. Most people contact a wedding coordinator three months before their wedding day. They can help you tie up the loose ends of your plans and set everything in motion.

How to Decide Which You Need

So, how do you know which of these professionals is right for your wedding? The answer lies in your response to the following few questions. So, grab your favorite drink and a chair. Let's decide on which works best for your wedding between a planner and a coordinator.

What's Your Budget?

What you have budgeted for your Milwaukee wedding plays a huge role in which of these professionals you may use. In the end, you have to settle for whichever works best for your budget. No one wants to go over budget while planning their wedding.

Most wedding planners take between 10 to 15% of your total budget. The percentage they go for depends on what needs to be done. Wedding coordinators, on the other hand, usually have a flat rate.

How Much Free Time Do You Have?

Wedding planning is no walk in the park. It can be very tasking. You'll need to make lots of decisions and talk to many vendors. Coordinating and setting up meetings will take most of your time.

If you have lots of time and planning comes naturally to you, then go ahead and choose a wedding coordinator. Someone that comes in towards the end to tidy things up might be just what you need.

However, if you do not have 3-5 hours each week to spend on your wedding, contact a planner. They’ll help you organize, plan and set things in motion so you can focus on other aspects of your life.

Also, if you find that you do have those hours free but have no idea what to do, a planner can help too. They'll help set you on the right path and make sure things get done fast.

How Much Do You Know About the Wedding Industry?

It is one thing to make a wedding budget. It's, however, another whole thing to stick to it. Without prior knowledge of the wedding industry, you could get in trouble. You need to know how to make the best deals.

If you have the experience needed, you can set things up and get a day of coordinator to monitor them. However, for couples with inexperience, a planner is best. You'll be paying for their experience and connections in the industry.

Planners will also ensure that couples like these get the best service. They'll use their relationships to your advantage and set your Milwaukee wedding up nicely. Knowledge of the wedding industry can be vital in deciding which of these professionals is right for you.

How Are Your Decision-Making Skills?

Wedding planning comes with a lot of decision-making. You have to be firm and may sometimes need to say No. Are you strong-willed enough to say that no and mean it? How about when the person you have to say no to is a loved one?

If you feel you can, then a coordinator might be who you need. So, go ahead with your planning and then contact one when it’s time for them to come in. This way you can still have time to relax and take care of yourself.

However, if standing your ground is not forte, maybe try a planner. They'll be able to use your vision to know what's best for your wedding. Since they're professionals, nobody will mind when they veto some suggestions too.

Planners are also great at handling any conflict of ideas. They’ll be able to smooth things over while making the best decision for your celebration. A wedding coordinator can also do the same, but they usually come in much later in the process.

How Great Are You at Handling Stress?

Even an elopement wedding can be stressful. For one thing, you'll have to get and file your marriage license papers. Planning a full wedding comes with even more stress. If you can take it on and remain graceful, then go for a day of coordinator.

If you, however, know there's a chance you might turn into a bridezilla, please get a wedding planner. They’ll handle the bulk of your wedding planning stress. Working with a planner will ensure that you can live your best life and also have a fantastic wedding.

Final Words

So, do you have your answer yet? Which will you be going for? Both wedding planners and coordinators have their essential wedding functions. Choosing the one right for you will go a long way in the success of your wedding.

So, use the above tips to decide which would work best for you. Talking with your partner on how much of your time you’re ready to commit will also help. Best of luck!

Here at Unveiled Events & Design, we’ve got you covered for your wedding planning, day of coordinating, and everything in between. Are you a couple in Milwaukee looking to host a memorable wedding? We’d love to help make that a success. Contact us today!