Despite what most people may have thought, there are actually different categories of wedding planning services available to engaged couples. Some are more far-reaching, while others may be more focussed on one or two elements of the big day. But, all are intended to make the wedding planning process simpler and to create the perfect [...]

Despite what most people may have thought, there are actually different categories of wedding planning services available to engaged couples. Some are more far-reaching, while others may be more focussed on one or two elements of the big day. But, all are intended to make the wedding planning process simpler and to create the perfect day for you. Some brides-to-be are happy to hand the entire process over to the professionals, while others prefer to be more hands-on, using their wedding coordinator as an advisor.

The following types of wedding planner are in place to help you to decide how involved you would like to be and which aspects you want your coordinator to handle:

The As-and-When Planner
This type of wedding planner would only be hired if you needed help with one or two aspects of your planning process. These aspects may include things about which you do not know much (such as certain bands or menu requirements, for example). This person will then just handle this specific job, taking that extra stress off your plate, so to speak. This is cheaper than a full-service wedding or event coordinator, but leaves you with more freedom and versatility in terms of planning your own big day.

The Last-Minute Planner
If you have been planning your wedding until now, but find that you are becoming overwhelmed with last-minute details, consider hiring a planner to handle these matters and to ensure that is in place and running smoothly. Often, when we are under stress, we can allow important issues to go unnoticed. By hiring someone to come into the process at the end, you ensure that everything runs according to your original plan.

It is wise that this last-minute wedding planner puts a detailed itinerary together for the entire week leading up to your wedding so that you are comfortable with everything that needs to take place; as well as when and how it is to do so.

The Part-Time Planner
This type of wedding coordinator is available for you throughout the pre-wedding period, providing you with guidance and advice. This planner’s involvement comprises advising and guiding the bride, but letting her communicate directly with potential suppliers, source quotes, etc… by herself. The part-time wedding coordinator might help with finding service providers. He or she may also attend dress fittings and décor appointments to provide input. But, they do not perform the specific tasks (of calling decorators, viewing showrooms, and so on) themselves. This allows the bride-to-be to be very ‘hands on’, while saving a significant amount of money on the coordinator’s fee.

The Full-Time Planner
The full-time wedding coordinator is there for the couple and every step of the wedding planning process. He or she provides important insight, advice and ideas for every aspect of the big day – from flowers to honeymoon destinations. They will take the lead in organising the event, from sourcing quotes and testing samples to attending the wedding and ensuring that the music is not too loud. This is an excellent way to lessen your load, especially if you are also very busy at work or otherwise occupied. A good wedding planner is trained to deal with cold feet, family feuds and sobbing breakdowns.

Another advantage is that they have good relationships with industry professionals and can, potentially, get better prices for your wedding. They are, admittedly, quite a lot more expensive than other types of planners, but are certainly worth their price for couples that do not know how or are not prepared to plan a wedding.

Photo Credit: Neil Cuninghame