Newly engaged couples often have a lot of questions, and one of the big ones is: do we get a wedding planner? This question might get more complicated if their venue comes with a wedding coordinator. If this is you, you might be wondering about wedding planner vs. wedding coordinator. Personally, for the most part, we always recommend that couples get a wedding planner. It’s important to understand the difference so you can make an informed decision
Eloping? You don’t always need a planner.
For elopements, you don’t really need a planner, but it also depends on how detail-oriented you want it to be. If you are thinking just the two of you, plus an officiant and your photographers, there is no need to have a full planner. As your wedding photographers, we help with overview logistics and can refer vendors. We love to help you pick the perfect team.
Wedding Planner vs. Wedding Coordinator
Even if your venue has a wedding coordinator, you need a separate wedding planner. A lot of venues in Lake Tahoe come with a coordinator, but that doesn’t mean they are there to help with the full planning process. Most wedding coordinators are not going to be involved in the little details. They are just focused on the day-of events and are there on behalf of the venue. They serve as the liaison between couples and the venue.
Keep in mind that if your ceremony and reception take place at two different spots, you will need a full wedding planner. They can figure out the travel, timelines, and logistics for you. Many of our couples choose an outdoor spot for their wedding ceremony and a separate venue for the reception.
A wedding planner will work for you and have your best interests in mind. A wedding planner is going to plan every single aspect of your wedding day from start to finish (and everything in between). They will also help you with the big decisions like budget, decor details, and finding the perfect vendor team.
A wedding planner is with you all day
They are also there on the day to make sure everything runs smoothly. Wedding planners handle the biggest item of all: timeline. They make sure that every single detail is outlined. They cover everything from your hair and makeup to when vendors arrive to the dinner service and even the grand exit. A wedding planner will be there to gather the bridal party to line up for the wedding, make sure guests are comfortable, and take care of vendors.
Bottom line: a venue coordinator is looking out for the venue’s best interests; a wedding planner is looking out for your best interests.
Make sure your wedding planner is a good fit
You want to make sure you get along with your wedding planner. Communication is key. Really interview them and make sure you are both on the same page. Stay true to your own vision! Find a planner who has the same design, vision, and personality. This wedding is about you.
Our Favorite Lake Tahoe Wedding Planners
As wedding photographers, we have had the honor of working with some incredible planners.
Jálie Events: This amazing team focuses on creating custom weddings that are filled with personal details that reflect you and your love story. They work to emphasize their couples’ vision by truly embracing their personalized aesthetic. Their packages range from Intimate Weddings to full-service wedding planning services. Whether you are looking for an intimate event on the shore of Lake Tahoe or a full wedding weekend, Jálie Events is the team for you!
Forget Me Knot Events: Perfect for the adventurous couple looking for a bespoke experience, we love working with Forget Me Knot Events. They offer month-of management, partial planning, and full planning services. They also provide wedding weekend management for couples who are looking to create a complete wedding weekend of celebration!
Liane McCombs: Liane is an award-winning planner who works with couples across the Lake Tahoe area. Their planning packages are perfect for the busy couple who need assistance making their vision come true.
When it comes to wedding planner vs. wedding coordinator, we always recommend getting a wedding planner. A wedding planner is just worth the investment because they’ll help you create the wedding of your dreams and keep things running smoothly. Our goal as photographers is to capture the beautiful day you’ve created and all the beautiful moments within it. We’d love to hear from you and learn all about your vision!
