Wedding Planner vs. Wedding Coordinator: What’s the Difference?

When couples begin their wedding journey, one of the most common questions is whether they need a wedding planner, a wedding coordinator, or both. While the titles sound similar, the roles are actually quite different. A wedding planner is with you from the very beginning—helping design your vision, recommending vendors, managing budgets, and keeping every moving piece on track. They’re your guide through the entire planning process, ensuring every detail aligns with your style and goals long before the big day arrives.

A wedding coordinator, on the other hand, typically steps in about a month before the wedding. Their job is to take the plans you’ve already made and ensure the day itself runs smoothly. They confirm details with vendors, build timelines, and troubleshoot behind the scenes so you can relax and enjoy. In short, planners create the roadmap and walk with you the whole way, while coordinators step in at the finish line to make sure everything goes according to plan. Depending on your needs, either role—or both—can be an invaluable investment in a stress-free wedding.