Do You Really Need a Wedding Planner?

Weddings in Canada are beautiful — and often wildly complex. With unpredictable weather, multi-location timelines, and guests flying in from across the country (or beyond), even small weddings come with big logistics.

As photographers, we’ve seen firsthand what happens when no one is steering the ship. The difference between a chaotic wedding and a joyful, well-paced day? Often, it’s the presence of a planner or coordinator.

If your wedding includes more than 20 guests, takes place anywhere other than your own backyard, or involves multiple vendors or locations — hiring a professional isn’t overkill. It’s common sense.
Read: How to Plan a Wedding in Canada — Month-by-Month Timeline

What Wedding Planners Actually Do

Whether you opt for full-service planning or day-of coordination, the goal is the same: keep your wedding running smoothly so you can enjoy it.

Great planners handle:

• Vendor coordination and contract management
• Timeline creation and execution
• Day-of logistics and last-minute pivots
• Putting out fires (without you even noticing)
• Direct communication with your photographer, DJ, officiant, and caterer
• Tools for budgeting, design, and vendor tracking
• Keeping you calm, focused, and in the moment

Photographer Insight:

“I shot a wedding where the couple asked friends to coordinate. The ceremony started 40 minutes late, dinner was cold, and we completely missed golden hour portraits. They were crushed. A planner would’ve prevented it all.”

Read: Planner vs. Day-Of Coordinator — What’s the Real Difference?

When You Definitely Need One

Consider a planner or coordinator a must-have if:

• You’re planning from another province or country
• Your guest list is over 80
• Your venue is non-traditional (barn, backyard, Airbnb)
• You’re combining multiple events or cultural traditions
• You’re a Type A personality who wants to relax (yes, really)

Wedding planners aren’t just for lavish affairs — they’re for anyone who wants a smooth day with fewer surprises.
 

Can You Get Away With Just a Day-Of Coordinator?

Possibly — especially if:

• Your wedding is small (under 50 guests)
• The venue is all-inclusive with in-house coordination
• You’ve already done most of the planning
• You’re working with vendors who don’t need oversight

Still, even a day-of coordinator can be a lifesaver. Your friends and family should celebrate with you — not run your event.
Read: What to Put in Your Wedding Day Timeline — According to Your Photographer

Real Problems We've Seen (Without a Planner)

Photographers often become de facto coordinators when no one else is. Here’s what that looks like:

• Hair and makeup run late — pushing back the entire day
• Vendors arrive without direction
• Bouquets, rings, or vow books go missing
• Ceremony starts late, shrinking photo time
• No one gathers family for portraits — shots are missed
• The couple ends up managing the day instead of living it

Read: Wedding Photography Horror Stories (and How to Avoid Becoming One)

Still Not Sure?

Ask your photographer. We’ve worked with countless planners and coordinators and can tell you honestly whether your day needs full planning, day-of coordination, or just a really solid spreadsheet and a few hyper-organized friends.

Read: What to Expect When Meeting With a Wedding Photographer

Final Thought

A planner isn’t a luxury — it’s a lifeline. For your peace of mind. For your photos. For your memories. A calm, well-run wedding will always lead to better images and a better experience.