Bridal consultant or Wedding Planner? What is the difference?

There is a difference between planners and coordinators, although most who claim to be either one are actually both. To start with, coordinators do just that, coordinate!

She* may be there just for the day of your event, although you should meet with her a few times before the big day so that she understands your vision and has all the information she needs.

Planners can be involved from the beginning or jump in whenever you need them. They are more involved in the gathering of information, booking of vendors, keeping of budgets, and planning of time lines. They can be involved in just about every decision you make, or just help out when you need them. And of course, they are there on the day of your wedding to make sure things run smoothly.

Both are a wealth of knowledge and should be able to help you with almost every aspect of the wedding, from laying out a budget to knowing the right questions to ask when you meet with vendors to planning a detailed schedule for the big day. They are great to have around when you have random questions that need answers or wedding-related tasks that just don't seem to fit onto your to do list.


The terms "consultant" and "coordinator" mean nearly the same thing. However there are slight variations so be sure to ask any wedding professionals you consult how they define their job. Generally speaking, a "consultant" is involved in the pre-wedding planning process with the bride and a "coordinator" focuses on making sure the actual wedding day flows smoothly.


Bridal consultants discuss coordinating or arranging a wedding with the bride and groom. They help in the pre-wedding stages to come up with ideas and contact caterers, florists, etc. An independent bridal consultant is not associated with specific vendors such as a florist or a caterer, and instead operates a self-contained business.

Shediscusses coordinating or arranging a wedding with the bride and groom. They help in the pre-wedding stages to come up with ideas and contact caterers, florists, etc.

An independent bridal consultant is not associated with specific vendors such as a florist or a caterer, and instead operates a self-contained business.

The consultant sits with the couple and advises them on what she needs to do before the wedding. Part of the service may be to
send the bride reminders and provide a written plan

Bridal consultants may recommend other wedding suppliers during the consultation.

They offer advise on Etiquette,customs and many other wedding related inquires.

The bride may have only one appointment with a consultant or may make regular appointments.

Wedding coordinators assist with planning a schedule for the wedding, then help conduct and coordinate the wedding day activities. In the south, a wedding coordinator may be called a wedding director. A church wedding coordinator is usually a member or on the staff of a church and their job is to make sure church rules are followed and assist with planning a schedule for the wedding, then help conduct and coordinate the wedding day activities. In the south, a wedding coordinator may be called a wedding director. A church wedding coordinator is usually a member or on the staff of a church and their job is to make sure church rules are followed.


Wedding Planner -Coordinates the details, vendors and itinerary on your wedding day. All concerns are placed on the shoulders of the wedding director the day of your wedding. The couple doesn't need to get caught up in the small details and can enjoy their guests and the day's events- Generally a person who can take charge and plan the details of a wedding from start to finish. The couple is still involved, but most of the leg work is left to the planner - the couple can trust the professional to make their arrangements for them.

Wedding Day Director -wedding day directors or coordinators. These consultants show up for the rehearsal, ceremony, and reception.

This person makes sure the bride has everything she needs to get down the aisle properly and on time.