A Day In The Life Of A Wedding Planner

Wedding planners can work a variety of hours depending on their experience, the type of wedding, and the package offered. On average, wedding planners work between 40 and 70 hours, with some working up to 100 hours or more. The number of hours worked can also depend on the type of planner, with full-time planners typically handling all aspects of the wedding planning process, while partial or day-of coordinators may only work on specific tasks or for a set number of hours. Couples who do not hire a wedding planner can expect to spend between 200 and 300 hours planning their wedding.

Full-service wedding planners

Full-service wedding planning is a comprehensive offering where the planner is involved in all aspects of the wedding planning journey. This service typically includes creating and managing the budget, handling vendors, optimising the timeline, and designing the wedding's cohesive aesthetic. The planner acts as the main point of contact, coordinating all aspects of the day and ensuring smooth communication between the couple and vendors.

The number of hours a full-service wedding planner works varies. Some sources suggest that full-service wedding planners work at least 50 hours, often closer to 60 or 70 hours. Others state that full-service planners can spend 400 to 500 hours or more on each wedding. The number of hours depends on the specific needs and requirements of the couple, as well as the planner's own processes and scope of work.

It is important to note that the services included in "full-service" can vary between planners, so it is essential for couples to understand exactly what is included in the package they choose.

Wedding coordinators

Some coordinators may start working with the couple as soon as they are hired, regardless of how far in advance of the wedding this is. Others may begin closer to the wedding date, typically two months before. Coordinators may offer a specific shift of six to ten hours on the wedding day, with additional hours incurring an hourly rate.

The duties of a wedding coordinator include setting up decorations, creating and managing timelines, and attending walkthroughs and rehearsals. They may also be involved in choosing and booking vendors, creating mood boards, and arranging rentals.

The cost of hiring a wedding coordinator can vary, with rates starting at $1,500 and going up to $4,500 or more. The rate will depend on the coordinator's experience, the location, and the specific services offered.

Day-of wedding coordinators

The day-of coordinator's role begins a few weeks before the wedding, when they meet with the couple to create a detailed timeline for the day. On the wedding day, they ensure that everything goes according to plan and handle any emergencies. This includes supervising vendors, managing setup, and coordinating the wedding party and family members.

The cost of a day-of wedding coordinator varies depending on their responsibilities and the specifics of the wedding, such as the number of locations and expected guest count. On average, they charge a flat fee of $800 to $1,000, with an additional hourly rate if the day runs long.

Hiring a day-of wedding coordinator can be a valuable investment, as they allow the couple to focus on enjoying their special day without worrying about logistics or last-minute problems.

• Creating and managing a detailed timeline for the wedding day
• Communicating with and overseeing vendors to ensure they fulfil their contractual obligations
• Troubleshooting any issues or emergencies that arise
• Distributing the wedding day timeline to vendors and the wedding party
• Conducting the wedding rehearsal
• Assisting the bride and wedding party with dressing and photographs
• Checking floor plans, lighting, cake placement, menus, and other details
• Collecting wedding gifts and ensuring the safety of personal items

Partial wedding planners

The average starting cost for a wedding planner is approximately $75 per hour, according to Wedding Wire research. Billable hours include consultations with clients, onsite visits, and planning the event. However, the number of hours a partial wedding planner works depends on the specific services the couple requests. For example, a partial planner might offer a specific shift of between six to ten hours on the wedding day, with any additional hours costing an extra hourly rate.

• Budgeting
• Finding the venue and vendors
• Design ideas
• Logistics
• Being onsite at the wedding
• Planning the wedding weekend
• Design and day-of management
• Building a budget
• Vendor hiring
• Contract negotiation
• Creating a seating chart
• Managing RSVPs
• Ensuring guests have all the information they need
• Planning the wedding design choices
• Setting up the reception and ceremony space
• Managing the kitchen and bar
• Acting as a point of contact for vendors
• Managing the rehearsal, wedding ceremony, and transition to the reception

Wedding designers

A wedding designer's role is purely aesthetic and doesn't include things like contract negotiations or attending appointments with the couple. They are the creative experts, conceptualising a cohesive aesthetic and ensuring that each detail, from lighting and floral arrangements to linens and signage, has a wow factor that reiterates the chosen theme.

• Create the wedding's design concept
• Provide colour palette guidance
• Oversee the décor budget and vendors (florist, rentals, lighting, stationery)
• Source special props and equipment
• Attend a site visit to visualise the layout and identify potential problems
• Create detailed floor plans
• Ensure all décor elements are in place on the wedding day

Frequently asked questions