While the titles may all sound the same, there is a different level of service for a wedding consultant, wedding coordinator, and wedding planner.
Below is a breakdown of the difference between the three. This will help you determine which type of wedding professional will be the best fit for you and your wedding planning needs.
Wedding Consultant
Offers advice and guidance for wedding planning during an appointment or meeting.
Some may even offer a vendor list, but they will not contact vendors on your behalf.
After your appointment, their job is done; no planning or working on the wedding day is involved with a wedding consultant.
Wedding Coordinator
Logistically focused, but on a shorter timeline than a wedding planner.
Confirms vendor contracts, creates a day-of timeline, and makes sure things like payments and guest counts are in order, but won't be involved in the earlier planning phases.
Still checks in during the planning process to ensure planning is on track.
Can provide vendor referrals, but will not reach out to vendors on your behalf.
Meets with you four to eight weeks before the wedding and becomes the point of contact from then on.
As the point of contact, they will be reaching out to vendors on your behalf and will need to be kept in the loop of all communication.
Checks in with your vendors to review the signed contracts and confirm logistics.
Creates detailed timelines and confirms floor plans with the venue and rental company.
Completes a final walk-through of the ceremony and reception sites.
Addresses any overlooked details that may have been missed.
Works directly with the entertainment provider to create the reception timeline.
Manages and coordinates the rehearsal.
Oversees everything on the wedding day itself.
Becomes the go-to person for everyone on the wedding day.
Will be there on the wedding day to execute the details and handle any issues or emergencies that arise.
Wedding Planner
Contracted work typically begins at the very start of the wedding planning process.
Can attend site tours and venues to help select the best venue that fits your style, needs, and budget.
Provides vendor referrals; planners offer a vast amount of knowledge and insight into the best vendors in your area to bring your wedding vision to life.
Can negotiate and review vendor contracts.
Schedules and attends vendor meetings (the number of meetings are determined by the package selected).
Helps create and manage your wedding budget.
Assists with other wedding items such as coordinating the hotel room block and any transportation needs.
Can coordinate design details with your florist, venue, and rental company.
Manages and coordinates the rehearsal.
Oversees everything on the wedding day itself.
Becomes the go-to person for everyone on the wedding day.
Will be there on the wedding day to execute the details and handle any issues or emergencies that arise.