What Does a Wedding Planner Really Do? (And Why You Need One)

So…what does a wedding planner really do?

If you’ve ever thought “but do I really need a wedding planner?” – you’re not alone. I hear this all the time from couples when they first start planning. The truth is, wedding planning is basically a full-time job (and you most likely already have one of those!). From vendor contracts to timeline management to making sure Grandma is in her seat before you walk down the aisle, my job is to handle the details so you can actually enjoy your engagement and wedding day.

Here’s what I’ll cover in this blog:

1. The difference between full-service wedding planning and month-of coordination

2. What I actually take off your plate (vendor calls, timelines, décor setup, and more)

3. Why even the most organized couples need at least a coordinator

4. How to figure out which package is the right fit for you

5. A peek inside my Moments by Maddie planning packages

Full-Service Wedding Planning vs. Month-of Coordination

There are two main ways I help couples: full planning or month-of coordination. Both are so valuable – it really just depends on how much support you want.

Full-Service Wedding Planning

→ Full planning is for you if you want me by your side through the entire process. I’ll:

→ Tour and book venues with you

→ Help find, negotiate, and secure vendors

→ Review contracts

→ Design your layout and aesthetic

→ Schedule and attend consultations

→Check in regularly so you never feel lost or behind

It’s basically having a partner in crime from the “Yes!” to the “I do.” 🫶

Month-of Coordination

If you’ve enjoyed planning but don’t want to be the one stressing over logistics at the end, month-of coordination is a lifesaver. About four weeks before your wedding, I’ll step in to:

→ Finalize your timeline

→ Confirm all vendors and details

→ Coordinate your rehearsal

→ Be the main point of contact for vendors, family, and guests

→ Oversee the entire day so you don’t have to

Even if you’re Type-A and love planning, trust me – you don’t want to be the one pinning boutonnieres or fielding DJ questions while you’re in your wedding dress.

Why Every Couple Needs At Least a Coordinator

No matter how organized you are, things come up. A cake delivery that’s running late, a boutonniere that goes missing, a last-minute seating change – you shouldn’t be the one fixing it. Having at least a coordinator ensures everything is handled seamlessly behind the scenes, so you and your family can actually be present.

When people ask me what does a wedding planner do, I always smile because the answer is: so much more than you think! Yes, I create timelines and confirm vendors, but I also handle the behind-the-scenes details you may not even realize exist. From managing last-minute hiccups to making sure your décor is placed exactly how you envisioned it, my job is to let you stay present and soak in every moment of your day.

Which Package Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick breakdown of my packages so you can see which one feels right:

• Moment #1 ($1,650) – Month-of coordination: I tie everything together, finalize your plans, and run the show on wedding day.
• Moment #2 ($2,650) – A little more support: I step in three months out to help with layout, vendor management, and walk-throughs.
• Moment #3 ($5,000) – Full planning: From booking vendors to design to contracts and timelines, I’ll be with you every step of the way.

Each one includes detailed timelines, vendor communication, and me (or one of my amazing coordinators) making sure your day goes exactly as it should.

My Takeaway for You

Your wedding is too important for you to spend it worrying about logistics. Whether you need someone to guide you from the very beginning or just want a pro to step in at the end, I’d love to help you create a day that’s stress-free, beautiful, and full of joy.

🩷 Ready to chat about which package is best for you? Reach out here – I can’t wait to hear about your wedding!

xoxo,
Maddie
Founder, Moments by Maddie