Wedding Planner vs. Wedding Decorator: What’s the Difference?

What's the difference between a Wedding Planner and a Wedding Decorator?

Hey there, soon-to-be-wed rebels in love! If you’re planning an alternative wedding and find yourself lost in the wedding industry, with all of its confusing elements - do not worry, you’re not alone.

At Un-Traditional, we know that planning a wedding is stressful, but one that’s ‘unconventional’, that reflects your unique vibe can feel like… like… waiting for Axl Rose to actually show up! A little chaotic, a lot of anticipation, and a whole lot of wondering if it’s ever going to happen...

And I’ve seen a lot on Facebook recently, engaged couples asking this question "Wedding Planner vs. Wedding Decorator: What’s the Difference?"

*Top Tip: Wedding Decorator is A.K.A a Wedding Stylist.

So, if you're not sure who you need on your dream team - a wedding planner, a wedding stylist, or both - read on to get a simple answer to your question.

The Wedding Planner: Is like Your Very Own Monica Gellar

A wedding planner is essentially the mastermind, the logistics guru, and the detail queen behind your day. They're the ones who keep everything running smoothly from your initial idea to the last song at your reception. If a wedding were a TV show, the planner would be the director and producer rolled into one.

Here’s what Wedding Planners do:

• Logistics Coordination:

  From arranging the schedule to managing vendor contracts, wedding planners handle the details that make your day flow seamlessly.

• Budgeting & Negotiation:

  They keep you on budget (or try to!) and negotiate with vendors so you can relax knowing someone has your back.

• Troubleshooting:

  A good planner is a problem-solver and fire-putter-outer. If there's a sudden issue - like a vendor running late or unexpected weather - they’re the first responder.

• Day-of Coordination:

  On the big day, they’ll ensure the timeline stays on track, handle any hiccups, and make sure everyone is where they need to be.

Basically, the wedding planner’s job is to make the whole event go off without a hitch. They’ll take the pressure off you and your partner so you can just focus on having an incredible day. A planner is the person you need if the idea of handling vendors, budgets, and schedules makes your head spin.

The Wedding Stylist: Making Your Dream Wedding Look Effortlessly Badass

Now, a wedding stylist is a little different. Think of them as the creatives who turn your ideas into a beautifully styled wedding. If we explain via how we rock n’ roll, it might be easier for you to understand.

At Un-Traditional, we’re [Stef & Rosie] are all about styling weddings that look and feel as unique as you. We’re not stylists who are just there to make things “look nice” - we’re here to make things look you.

Here's what Wedding Stylists do:

• Concept Creation:

  We work with you to create an overall look, vibe, and/or theme that speaks to your personality, not some cookie-cutter decor package of items.

• Decor Sourcing & Design:

  From finding the perfect candlesticks to creating killer statement pieces like plinths, we source and design decor that feels authentic and completely original.

• Venue Transformation:

  We don’t just put out a table runner and call it a day. We’ll bring your whole space to life with your vision.

• Attention to Detail:

  Stylists are perfectionists by nature, and we’re here to make sure each piece contributes to the look of your day. That means we work with your other vendors. So that the end result is a space that’s visually cohesive, memorable, and totally you.

If you’ve got a vision (or maybe just a vibe you’re feeling), a wedding stylist will take those thoughts and transform them into something tangible, creating a stunning atmosphere that you and your guests will be talking about for years.

Wedding Planner vs. Wedding Stylist: Which One Do You Need?

Here’s the truth:

A lot of couples can benefit from both a planner and a stylist, especially if you're going the alternative or offbeat route.

Go for a wedding planner if logistics are overwhelming you or if you’re juggling a packed life schedule. They’ll bring all the moving pieces together, making sure the day flows smoothly.

Opt for a stylist if you have a vision but aren’t sure how to pull it off - or if you simply want a visually stunning day that breaks away from traditional expectations - or if you need help setting up on your big day. A stylist will work closely with you to make your wedding look and feel uniquely yours, so every visual detail reflects who you are as a couple.

THE FAQS - Wedding Planner vs. Wedding Decorator: What’s the Difference?

What’s the difference between a wedding stylist and a wedding planner?

A wedding planner is responsible for organising all the details of your wedding. This includes managing the budget, coordinating vendors, and creating timelines. They make sure everything runs smoothly on your wedding day. On the other hand, a wedding stylist focuses on the look and feel of your wedding. They design wedding decorations, choose colour schemes, and arrange the wedding decor to match your style. While planners handle the logistics, stylists create the beautiful atmosphere for your wedding.

Do I need both a wedding stylist and a wedding planner?

Whether you need both a wedding stylist and a wedding planner depends on your wedding needs.

If you want someone to help with wedding decorations and decor but can manage the planning yourself, a wedding stylist may be enough.

However, if you want someone to handle all the logistics, vendor coordination, and day-of management, hiring a wedding planner is essential.