Wedding Planner vs. Coordinator Cost: What’s the Difference, and What Should You Expect to Pay?

When planning your wedding, deciding between a wedding planner and a coordinator is an important choice. Both can help make your big day stress-free, but their roles (and costs) are quite different. Whether you’re juggling a tight budget or planning a lavish celebration, understanding what you’re paying for is key.

“A wedding is a beautiful beginning, a day where love stands still in time. It is the embrace of two hearts, the gathering of family and friends, and the promise of forever. Every smile, every tear, every whispered ‘I do’ becomes a cherished memory, woven into the fabric of a lifetime together. And through the lens of a camera, these moments are captured—preserved not just as photographs, but as timeless reminders of the love, joy, and commitment that started it all.” – Unknown

In this easy-to-read guide, we’ll break down the costs of hiring a wedding planner versus a coordinator, what affects their pricing, and how to decide which option is best for your wedding.

What’s the Difference Between a Wedding Planner and a Coordinator?  

Before diving into costs, let’s recap their roles:  

– Wedding Planner: A wedding planner handles the entire planning process, from budget management and vendor bookings to design and logistics. They’re with you from the beginning to ensure your wedding vision comes to life.  
– Wedding Coordinator: A wedding coordinator steps in closer to your wedding date, usually 4–6 weeks before. Their job is to manage the logistics you’ve already planned, making sure everything runs smoothly on the big day.  

Because their responsibilities differ, their pricing varies too.  



How Much Does a Wedding Planner Cost?  

Wedding planners typically charge more than coordinators because they’re involved in the entire planning process. Here’s what you can expect:  

1. Full-Service Wedding Planner  
A full-service wedding planner handles everything from start to finish.  

Average Cost: $3,000–$8,000 (or 10–20% of your total wedding budget).  

What’s Included:  
– Budget management.  
– Vendor research, booking, and coordination.  
– Design and styling guidance.  
– Timeline creation and management.  
– Day-of coordination.  

Best For: Couples who want professional guidance throughout the entire process or are planning a large or complex wedding.  



2. Partial Wedding Planner  
Partial planning services are ideal if you’ve started planning but need help with specific aspects.  

Average Cost: $1,500–$4,000.  

What’s Included:  
– Vendor recommendations.  
– Assistance with design and timeline creation.  
– Support with remaining planning tasks.  

Best For: Couples who want some professional help but prefer to handle certain elements themselves.  



How Much Does a Wedding Coordinator Cost?  

Wedding coordinators typically cost less than planners because they step in closer to the wedding date and focus on executing your plans.  

Day-of or Month-of Coordinator  
These professionals ensure your wedding day goes off without a hitch.  

Average Cost: $1,000–$2,500.  

What’s Included:  
– Reviewing your plans and timeline.  
– Confirming vendor contracts and schedules.  
– Overseeing the wedding day timeline.  
– Managing vendors, the wedding party, and any last-minute issues.  

Best For: Couples who have planned their wedding but want someone to handle the logistics on the day.  



What Affects the Cost of a Planner or Coordinator?  

Several factors influence how much you’ll pay for a wedding planner or coordinator:  

1. Location  
Wedding planning services in large cities or popular wedding destinations tend to be more expensive due to higher demand and cost of living.  



2. Experience and Reputation  
Highly experienced planners and coordinators with glowing reviews and an extensive portfolio often charge more.  



3. Size and Complexity of the Wedding  
Large weddings or events with multiple locations, cultural traditions, or elaborate decor require more time and effort, which can increase costs.  



4. Services Included  
The more services you need, the higher the price. Full-service planners charge more than partial planners or coordinators due to the level of involvement.  



5. Customization  
If you need a highly tailored package, expect to pay a premium for the added personalization.  



Planner vs. Coordinator: Which Is More Budget-Friendly?  

If you’re on a budget, hiring a coordinator is typically the more affordable option. Coordinators focus on logistics rather than full-scale planning, making their services ideal for couples who are confident in their planning abilities but want a stress-free wedding day.  

However, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the planning process or don’t have the time to manage every detail, a wedding planner is worth the higher cost. They’ll save you time, reduce stress, and often negotiate better deals with vendors, which can help offset their fee.  



Tips for Saving on Wedding Planning Services  

1. Choose Partial Planning: Many planners offer à la carte services or partial planning packages that cost less than full-service options.  
2. Book Early: Planners and coordinators may offer discounts for booking their services well in advance.  
3. Opt for a Coordinator Only: If you’re confident in your planning skills, a coordinator can handle the logistics without the higher cost of a full-service planner.  
4. Ask for Referrals: Some venues or vendors offer discounts if you use a planner they recommend.  



How to Choose the Right Professional for Your Wedding  

When deciding between a wedding planner and a coordinator, ask yourself these questions:  

1. How Much Help Do I Need?  
   – If you’re overwhelmed or short on time, a planner is worth it.  
   – If you’ve got the planning under control but want a smooth wedding day, go for a coordinator.  

2. What’s My Budget?  
   – Planners cost more but offer comprehensive support.  
   – Coordinators are a more budget-friendly option for day-of assistance.  

3. What’s My Vision?  
   – For large, elaborate weddings, a planner can help bring your vision to life.  
   – For smaller or simpler weddings, a coordinator may be enough.  

Final Thoughts

Wedding planners and coordinators both play essential roles in creating a stress-free, memorable wedding. The choice between them ultimately depends on your budget, planning confidence, and the complexity of your event.  

– Wedding Planners: Ideal if you want someone to handle the entire process, with prices ranging from $3,000 to $8,000+.  
– Wedding Coordinators: Best for couples who need help managing the day-of logistics, with costs between $1,000 and $2,500.  

No matter which option you choose, hiring a professional to support you ensures you can relax and focus on what really matters—celebrating your love.