Wedding Planner vs. Wedding Coordinator vs. Wedding Designer: Which is right for your wedding?
Wedding Planner vs. Wedding Coordinator vs. Wedding Designer: What’s the Difference?
Planning a wedding is no small task. Between picking the perfect venue, finding the right vendors, and figuring out how to bring your dream day to life, it can feel overwhelming. And when it comes to hiring professional help, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of terms: wedding planner, coordinator, designer… what’s the difference, anyway?
As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how having the right support can transform the planning experience (and your actual wedding day). So, let’s break down these roles to help you figure out what kind of help you might need.
What Does a Wedding Planner Do?
A wedding planner is your go-to person for making your entire wedding process run smoothly. Think of them as your guide, coach, and organizational guru. They’re there from start to finish (or whenever you decide to bring them in) to handle the logistics and details so you can focus on enjoying your engagement.
What they do:
- Help you create and stick to a budget.
- Find and recommend vendors that fit your style, budget, and vision.
- Manage contracts and communication with vendors.
- Create a detailed timeline for the entire planning process and your wedding day.
- Assist with guest logistics, like RSVPs and seating charts.
- Solve problems behind the scenes so you don’t have to.
Full Planning vs. Partial Planning Planners often offer two types of services: full and partial planning.
- Full Planning: Your planner is with you from the very beginning, helping you every step of the way. From booking vendors to designing your timeline, they’re deeply involved in every aspect of the process. This is ideal if you’re busy, overwhelmed, or just want to hand over the reins to someone who knows exactly what they’re doing.
- Partial Planning: If you’ve already gotten a few pieces in place but need help pulling it all together, partial planning is a great option. Your planner can step in to refine details, connect with vendors, and tie up loose ends. It’s a good middle ground for couples who want to stay involved but still want professional guidance.
Planners are all about logistics and execution. If you want someone to keep all the moving pieces organized so you can relax, a planner is the way to go.
What Does a Wedding Coordinator Do?
A wedding coordinator (sometimes called a day-of coordinator) is all about execution. While planners are involved throughout the entire process, coordinators step in closer to your wedding day to make sure everything goes off without a hitch.
What they do:
- Review your plans and create a detailed day-of timeline.
- Confirm details with vendors and act as the main point of contact on your wedding day.
- Oversee setup and breakdown.
- Solve any last-minute issues (so you don’t even know they happened).
- Keep everything running on time.
Coordinators typically step in about 4–6 weeks before your wedding, giving them enough time to familiarize themselves with your plans and ensure everything is ready to go. They’re ideal for couples who’ve planned most of their wedding themselves but want someone to handle the final stretch and make sure the day flows smoothly.
What Does a Wedding Designer Do?
While planners and coordinators focus on logistics, a wedding designer focuses on creating the look and feel of your day. They’re the ones who will bring your Pinterest board to life, ensuring every detail reflects your style and vision.
What they do:
- Help you develop a cohesive design concept, from colors to overall vibe.
- Create mood boards and recommend decor, furniture, and floral elements.
- Work with florists, rental companies, and lighting teams to execute your vision.
- Oversee setup to ensure the design elements come together seamlessly.
It’s worth noting that some wedding planners also offer design services, but not all do. If the overall aesthetic is a top priority for you, hiring a designer (or a planner with a strong design background) might be the way to go.
How Do You Decide What’s Right for You?
Now that you know the differences, how do you decide what kind of help you need? Start by asking yourself these questions:
- How much time do I have to dedicate to planning? If your schedule is packed, a full planner can save you countless hours.
- Do I enjoy handling details, or does it stress me out? If you love the idea of being hands-on but need someone to tie up the loose ends, partial planning or a coordinator might be perfect.
- How important is the overall aesthetic of my wedding? If design and decor are a priority, consider working with a designer.
- Do I just need someone to take over on the big day? If you’ve done the heavy lifting but want to actually enjoy your wedding, a coordinator is a great option.
At the end of the day, hiring the right kind of professional can take so much stress off your plate and allow you to truly enjoy the process—and the day itself.
Why Having Help Matters
I’ve photographed so many weddings where I’ve seen the difference that planners, coordinators, and designers can make. When couples have the right support, they’re more relaxed, more present, and able to soak up all the little moments that make their day special. And honestly, that’s what it’s all about—celebrating your love and enjoying every second of it.
Whether you go all-in with a planner, bring in a designer to elevate the look, or hire a coordinator to keep everything on track, having professional support is an investment in your peace of mind. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Here are some of my favorite Montana Wedding Planners
If you’re still not sure what’s right for you or need help finding an amazing planner, coordinator, or designer, let me know! I’ve worked with some incredible wedding professionals here in Montana, and I’d love to connect you with the right fit for your day.
1. Events by Killian
Based in Bozeman, MT, Events by Killian offers both partial and full-service planning, specializing in destination weddings across Montana. Recognized as Bozeman’s Choice Wedding Planner for 2023, 2024, and 2025, they are known for their attention to detail and ability to bring big ideas to life. Whether you’re looking for comprehensive planning from start to finish or assistance with specific aspects of your wedding, Events by Killian can tailor their services to meet your needs.
2. Weddings by Sara
Operating out of Missoula, MT, Weddings by Sara provides a range of services, including full-service planning, partial planning, and day-of coordination. Sara is organized and approachable, making her adept at bringing couples’ visions to life. Whether you need comprehensive planning assistance or just someone to ensure your day runs smoothly, Sara offers flexible packages to suit your requirements.
3. Anchor G Gatherings
Located in Helena, MT, Anchor G Gatherings is a wedding planning and full-service floral design company. They focus on creating cohesive and personalized aesthetics for weddings, ensuring that every detail reflects the couple’s style and vision. Their services encompass both the logistical aspects of planning and the creative elements of design, making them a versatile choice for couples seeking a comprehensive approach.
4. Carefree Events
Based in Bozeman, MT, Carefree Events offers full planning, partial planning, and day-of coordination services. Founded by Heather Hagg, who has over 15 years of experience in event and hospitality management, they specialize in transforming the planning process into a seamless and enjoyable experience. Their approach ensures that clients can revel in all the special moments without worry, making the event as carefree as possible.
Each of these professionals brings unique strengths to the table, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your wedding planning needs.
Your wedding should be as stress-free and joyful as possible—and the right team will make that happen. You’ve got this!
Let’s Capture Your Day Together
While planners, coordinators, and designers ensure your day runs smoothly and looks incredible, I’m here to make sure every meaningful moment is captured forever. From the quiet, emotional exchanges to the big, joyous celebrations, I focus on documenting your wedding day with authenticity and heart.
If that sounds like what you’re looking for, I’d love to be part of your team. Fill out the form below, and let’s start planning how we’ll preserve your once-in-a-lifetime moments!
