Exploring the Types of Wedding Coordinators: From Day-of to Full-Service
So, what’s the difference between the types of wedding coordinators? A day-of coordinator manages everything on your wedding day, a month-of coordinator jumps in a few weeks early to finalize details, and a full-service coordinator is there from start to finish, guiding the entire planning process.
If you’ve ever felt lost in the wedding-planning wilderness, knowing which coordinator you need is like finding your personal GPS. Each type offers a different level of involvement, cost, and sanity-saving magic. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which type of wedding coordinator will keep your big day running without a single “Wait, who’s got the rings?!” moment.
In this article:
What a wedding coordinator does
Day-of wedding coordinator
Month-of wedding coordinator
Full-service wedding coordinator
How to choose the right wedding coordinator for you
FAQs: Types of wedding coordinators
What a wedding coordinator does
Think of a wedding coordinator as the stage manager of your big day, they make sure all the moving parts run smoothly, from vendor arrivals to the last dance. Their job is to take your plans and make them happen exactly how you envisioned, troubleshooting problems before you even know they exist.
Depending on the type of wedding coordinator you hire, their duties can include:
Creating and managing the wedding-day timeline.
Communicating with vendors to confirm details and arrival times.
Overseeing ceremony and reception setup.
Directing the wedding party and keeping events on schedule.
Handling last-minute surprises (like the missing bouquet or a broken boutonniere).
Acting as the go-to point of contact so you and your family can simply enjoy the day.
Day-of wedding coordinator
A day-of wedding coordinator is like the calm, collected friend who steps in on your big day and makes sure everything runs exactly as planned. They typically start working with you a few weeks before the wedding to review your timeline, confirm vendor details, and understand your vision, but their main role is to take the reins on the actual day.
What they usually handle:
Reviewing and finalizing your wedding-day schedule.
Confirming all vendor contacts, arrival times, and setup needs.
Managing the ceremony and reception flow.
Directing the wedding party for entrances, speeches, and photos.
Troubleshooting any unexpected hiccups without disturbing you.
Pros: You get a professional running the show so you can fully enjoy your wedding.
Cons: You’re responsible for all the planning and booking before they step in.
Best for: Couples who have everything organized but want peace of mind on the big day.
Month-of wedding coordinator
A month-of wedding coordinator is the perfect blend of moral support and professional backup. They step in about 4–6 weeks before your wedding to tie up loose ends, confirm every detail, and ensure nothing falls through the cracks in those chaotic final weeks. Think of them as your wedding-day bodyguard who also happens to be a master organizer.
What they usually handle:
Reviewing all your plans and vendor contracts.
Creating a detailed wedding-day timeline.
Communicating with vendors to confirm logistics.
Coordinating the rehearsal and ceremony flow.
Managing setup, timing, and problem-solving on the wedding day.
Pros: Gives you breathing room in the busiest part of planning while ensuring a smooth event.
Cons: You’ll still need to handle most of the planning and booking yourself before they come on board.
Best for: Couples who have most details handled but want a professional to finalize and execute their vision without added stress.
Full-service wedding coordinator
A full-service wedding coordinator is your right-hand partner from the moment you get engaged to the moment the last sparkler fades. They handle every detail, so you can focus on enjoying the process instead of drowning in to-do lists. From booking venues and vendors to designing your tablescape, they’re involved in every decision and execution step.
What they usually handle:
Creating a wedding budget and keeping spending on track.
Sourcing and booking vendors that match your style and budget.
Managing design, décor, and overall event style.
Handling contracts, timelines, and communication with all vendors.
Overseeing every aspect of the wedding day from setup to breakdown.
Pros: Takes nearly all planning stress off your plate and ensures a cohesive, professional event.
Cons: Comes with the highest price tag of all the types of wedding coordinators.
Best for: Busy couples, destination weddings, or anyone who wants expert guidance every step of the way.
How to choose the right wedding coordinator for you
Finding the perfect wedding coordinator is a bit like dating, you need to know what you’re looking for before you commit. Start by asking yourself how much help you want and how early in the process you want it. Your budget, personal organization style, and how much time you can devote to planning will all play a role.
Key tips:
Consider your planning style: Are you a DIY bride/groom who just needs someone to run the show, or do you want a partner from day one?
Factor in your budget: Remember that service level impacts price, full-service is the most expensive, day-of the least.
Ask the right questions: Find out exactly what’s included in their package and how much time they’ll dedicate to your event.
Trust the vibe: You’ll be working closely together, so choose someone you feel comfortable with.
Choosing between the types of wedding coordinators
No matter which type of wedding coordinator you choose, understanding the options helps you book the right partner for your personality, budget, and vision. Because on your wedding day, you deserve to focus on marrying your favorite person, not managing the cake delivery.
FAQs: Types of wedding coordinators
How far in advance should I book a wedding coordinator?
It’s best to book your coordinator at least 6–12 months before your wedding. Even if you’re hiring a day-of or month-of coordinator, many book up far in advance, especially in popular wedding seasons.
Do I need a coordinator if my venue has an on-site coordinator?
Venue coordinators usually manage the venue’s responsibilities only (like catering, staff, or setup for in-house equipment). A wedding coordinator works for you directly, managing all vendors, the timeline, and any last-minute issues beyond the venue’s scope.
Can a wedding coordinator help with design and decor?
It depends on the type of wedding coordinator you choose. Full-service coordinators often offer design services, but day-of or month-of coordinators typically focus on logistics and execution rather than creative direction.
How much does each type of wedding coordinator cost?
Costs vary widely based on location, experience, and package inclusions. In Coeur d’Alene, ID, day-of coordination might range from $1,200–$1,500, month-of from $2,500–$3,500, and full-service can begin around $6,000 and go up from there.
