Your Wedding BFF

Should you hire a wedding planner?

Yes. 

That’s all. Next question…. 

In all seriousness, a wedding planner is an invaluable resource to couples planning their wedding. For most couples, this is the first (and hopefully last) time they will ever plan a wedding. So, it’s understandable that a couple may not know where to begin, which vendors to trust, or what a realistic budget is for their celebration.

A wedding planner truly holds your hand through the planning process from putting together your budget (I know, not a fun word!) to vendor recommendations, design assistance, and managing the event flow on your wedding day.

On-site Event Coordinator vs. Outside Wedding Planner

There is a lot of confusion of what the difference is between the on-site coordinator at the venue (i.e. the person who you likely booked the venue with) and an outside wedding planner. So, let’s break it down:

The on-site coordinator’s main responsibility is to be the liaison between you and the venue. If the venue also offers catering services, they are responsible for your food and beverage selections, in-house set up and maintaining the integrity of their venue and staff. 

An outside wedding planner’s role is entirely different. Not only are they the liaison between you and the venue, but they are the liaison between you and ALL of your vendors. A wedding planner will create your budget for you, take the guess work out of vendor selections, design your wedding, create your timeline, and put together floor plans. They also will likely run your ceremony as well as the reception. A wedding planner spends the most time with the couple throughout the wedding planning process, and by far has the most insight into a couple’s likes, dislikes, and even their family dynamics. 

Why Can’t I Just Have A Friend Plan My Wedding?

I know what you’re thinking. My (insert my best friend’s sister’s cousin) loves weddings and she can plan my wedding for next to nothing. While it is tempting to hire a friend, my advice is to hire a professional. A professional wedding planner has mastered the art of vendor negotiations, budget management, design, event management, and most importantly - is a neutral partner in the planning process. Believe me … you’re going to want that.

Bottom Line

Yes, their fee is an investment. Some planners will charge a flat rate while others will charge a percentage based on what you have spent on the wedding.  But it is important to remember that they are likely spending an entire year of planning with you. A good planner is the glue that holds the wedding together and keeps open communication between your vendors. If you are able, I would highly recommend hiring one!