Vancouver Island Wedding Planners & Coordinators
Your guide to choosing the right planning support - whether you need full-service help
or just someone to make the day run smoothly.
Start here: browse local planners
A great planner or coordinator brings calm to the chaos. They know the Island, the vendors, and how to make your vision happen without the stress.
Planner vs. Coordinator: What is the difference?
These terms get mixed up a lot. Here is the quick breakdown so you know what you are actually hiring.
| Role | When they start | What they do | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Service Planner | Right after engagement (12+ months) | Budget, vendor sourcing, design, logistics, day-of execution | $3,500-$8,000+ |
| Partial Planner | 6-10 months out | Vendor recommendations, design guidance, timeline creation | $2,000-$4,000 |
| Month-Of Coordinator | 4-8 weeks before | Finalizes timeline, confirms vendors, runs rehearsal and wedding day | $1,800-$3,000 |
| Day-Of Coordinator | 2-4 weeks before | Manages the wedding day timeline, vendor arrivals, problem-solving | $1,500-$2,500 |
What a coordinator actually handles on the day
Here are the tasks that get taken off your plate so you can actually enjoy your wedding.
Dos and donts for hiring a planner
Tips to find the right match and avoid common mistakes.
Do: what to prioritize
Don't: what trips people up
Featured local planners
Planners and coordinators Island couples keep mentioning.
Planning a destination wedding on the Island?
Destination weddings on Vancouver Island - especially in Tofino, Ucluelet, or the Gulf Islands - benefit enormously from local planning help. Logistics like ferries, accommodations, and remote venue access are much easier with someone who knows the area.
Browse planners by region
Many planners serve the whole Island, but local knowledge of venues and vendors in your area can be a big advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a wedding planner and a coordinator?
A wedding planner helps from the beginning - budgets, vendor selection, design, logistics. A coordinator typically comes in 4-8 weeks before the wedding to manage the final details and execute the day-of timeline. Some professionals offer both services.
How much does a wedding planner cost on Vancouver Island?
Full-service planning typically ranges from $3,500-$8,000+ depending on scope and wedding size. Day-of coordination often starts around $1,500-$3,000. Month-of packages fall in between.
When should I hire a wedding planner?
For full planning, hire as soon as you are engaged - ideally 12+ months out. For day-of coordination, booking 6-8 months ahead ensures availability, though some coordinators start their work 4-8 weeks before the wedding.
Do I really need a day-of coordinator?
Many couples find it invaluable. A coordinator handles vendor arrivals, timeline management, and problem-solving so you and your family can enjoy the day without stress. Some venues require one.
What should I ask a wedding planner before booking?
Ask about their experience with your venue type, how many weddings they handle per season, what is included in their packages, their backup plan if they are unavailable, and how they handle vendor recommendations.
Related Resources
Final thoughts
Whether you want full-service planning or just someone to run the day,
hiring the right support means you actually get to enjoy your wedding.