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How Far in Advance Should I Book a Wedding Planner?

Updated: Feb 26

Wedding invitation for Brandi & Eoin on a rustic table with rings in a box, beige fabric, and golden pampas grass photo.

So, you’ve said “yes!” and now you’re staring at your Pinterest board with a mix of excitement and, let’s be honest, mild panic. Planning a wedding is no small feat, and one of the first big decisions is deciding when to book your wedding planner. Let me make this simple for you: the sooner, the better. But let’s break it down a little, shall we?

 

1. Full Wedding Planning (12–18 months in advance)

If you’re dreaming of a seamless wedding where someone else handles all the nitty-gritty, you’ll want to secure a full-service planner as soon as possible. Many couples book full wedding planners 12 to 18 months before their big day.


Why?

  • Planners are like wedding fairy godmothers—there’s only so much magic one person can create at a time.

  • Top-tier planners (hi, hello!) often book up quickly, especially for peak wedding seasons like late spring, summer, and early fall.


 

2. Partial Planning (8–12 months in advance)

If you’ve already picked your venue or a few vendors but need help tying it all together, a partial planner might be your go-to. Think of it like having a co-pilot who helps you navigate all those decisions still waiting on your to-do list. Booking at least 8 to 12 months out gives us enough time to dive into your vision and ensure no detail is overlooked.


 

3. Day-of Coordination (4–6 months in advance)

Spoiler alert: “day-of” coordination is a bit of a misnomer. To make your wedding day run smoothly, planners need time to review your vendor contracts, create timelines, and figure out how to ensure your cousin doesn’t monopolize the DJ. Booking 4 to 6 months before your wedding ensure's you have the chance to secure a professional you love in time for your big day.


 

Why Booking Early is Always Better

  1. You Get Your First Choice: Wedding planners are like your dream dress or that exclusive venue—popular dates go fast. Booking early ensures you don’t miss out.

  2. You’ll Save Yourself Stress: Let’s face it—having a professional to lean on makes everything easier. The sooner you book, the sooner you can relax knowing someone is in your corner.

  3. Budget Planning Made Easy: Wedding planners help with budgeting, vendor recommendations, and getting the best value for your money. Booking early means you can start your budget off on the right foot.


Last-Minute Weddings? We’ve Got You!

By now you should have an idea of how far in advance you should book your wedding planner, but if you’ve decided to tie the knot in a whirlwind, don’t panic. While most planners prefer a bit more notice, many of us (myself included) have systems in place to make magic happen in shorter timeframes. Just be ready to hustle, and let’s make it happen!


 

TL;DR: How Far in Advance Should I Book a Wedding Planner

Book your wedding planner as soon as possible to secure your date, minimize stress, and ensure your wedding dreams come true. Whether you’re planning a luxurious year-long affair or a last-minute celebration, having a planner by your side makes all the difference.


Ready to get started? Let’s chat, because your dream wedding deserves nothing less than flawless.

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