Wedding Planner vs. Coordinator: Which Is Right for You?
If you’re dreaming of a sunset ceremony in Santorini or a chic terrace reception in Athens, you may need some support bringing your vision to life. That’s where a wedding planner and coordinator come in. Many people assume these individuals offer the same services, but that’s a misconception.
So, what’s the difference between a wedding planner and a coordinator, and which is right for you? It depends on how much help you want, how complex your logistics are, and how hands-on you want to be.
What a Wedding Planner Does
A wedding planner works with you early on and often. They offer big-picture strategy and day-to-day progress. They’ll help you define your vision, build a realistic budget, source and vet vendors, negotiate contracts, and create a full planning timeline. A planner also problem-solves when a venue requires specific insurance, your guest count shifts, or a vendor’s delivery window changes. They can keep your plan intact and your stress low.
Choose a planner if you want a consistent partner and prefer in-person guidance over Googling. A planner also makes sense if you want to plan multiple events, such as a welcome party, a beach day, and a farewell brunch.
What a Wedding Coordinator Handles
A coordinator focuses on execution and logistics, typically closer to the wedding date. Many couples hire a “month-of” coordinator, but their value shines most on the wedding day. Coordinators confirm vendor arrival times, run the rehearsal, manage the timeline, cue the ceremony, and troubleshoot on-site issues before you ever notice them.
If you already booked your venue and key vendors, and you simply want someone to “call the plays,” a coordinator fits beautifully. They translate your plans into a smooth experience for you, your families, and your guests.
How To Decide Between the Two
Begin by looking at how much time, energy, and flexibility you have. Planning a destination wedding requires constant communication, detailed scheduling, and quick decision-making. If you feel excited by spreadsheets and vendor emails, you might only need coordination. If that sounds like a second job, hire a planner.
Consider the scale and complexity of your celebration. Multiday events, custom builds, guest transportation, and outdoor setups add moving parts quickly. A coordinator knows how to prioritize vendors, including rentals, catering, and entertainment, and they will ensure everything runs smoothly once you arrive in Greece.
Enjoy the Process
Determining whether a wedding planner or coordinator is right for you is about responsibility. Who do you want to handle vendor negotiations? Who will build and adjust the timeline? Who will solve problems when the weather shifts or deliveries run late? If you want a professional to manage those decisions from the start, a planner delivers comprehensive oversight. If you have already shaped your vision and secured your team, a coordinator can execute every detail with precision.
Your wedding should feel intentional, organized, and joyful. Choose the role that matches your planning style, the complexity of your event, and the level of involvement you want in the months ahead. Having the right support will allow you to enjoy one of the most important days of your life.
