When you begin planning your wedding, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed. There are so many decisions to make, so many services to hire, and a constant feeling that you might be forgetting something important. At this stage, many couples discover the existence of wedding planning packages, but don’t always fully understand what each one includes — or which one they actually need.
Choosing the right package can save you stress, time, and money… but choosing the wrong one can lead to frustration and leave many things out of control. That’s why, in this article, we’ll help you understand the differences between the main types of planning packages, what each one includes, and how to choose the ideal option based on your type of wedding and your real needs.
What are wedding planning packages?
Wedding planning packages are services offered by professional wedding planners, designed to adapt to different levels of need, budgets, and types of events. Not every couple needs the same level of support: some want to delegate everything from day one, while others only need occasional help or support on the wedding day itself.
This is why different packages exist, with flexible structures that group tasks and responsibilities to make the process easier for both the planner and the couple.
The most common types of wedding planning packages
Wedding planning services are not the same for every couple, which is why different packages exist to match the level of support you may need. From couples who prefer to delegate absolutely everything, to those who only want help coordinating the big day. Below, we outline the most common types of packages offered by wedding planners, along with a brief explanation of what you can expect from each one.
- Full wedding planning: covers everything from concept development to full coordination on the wedding day.
- Partial planning: ideal for couples who have already made progress with some elements but need professional help to bring everything together.
- Day-of coordination: designed for couples who already have everything planned but want someone to manage the event on the day itself.
- Tailor-made services: custom packages based on specific needs or particular aspects of the event.
What does each type of package include?
To better understand the differences, this table summarises what each option typically includes:
| Service | Full planning | Partial planning | Day-of coordination |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guidance from the start | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Supplier sourcing | ✅ | ✅ (partial) | ❌ |
| Event design and styling | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Coordination and follow-up | ✅ | ✅ (depending on contract) | ❌ |
| Full management on the wedding day | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
It’s important for each couple to carefully review what is — and isn’t — included in each service. Sometimes, what seems like a good deal turns out to be a very limited package.
How do you know which package is best for your wedding?
There is no single “perfect” package. Everything depends on your type of wedding, your available time, and your ability to manage suppliers. These questions can help you decide:
- Do you have enough free time to handle the planning?
- Have you organised similar events before?
- Are you getting married in another city or country?
- Do you find coordinating multiple people stressful?
- Do you want to enjoy your wedding without worrying about anything?
If you answered “yes” to several of these questions, full wedding planning is probably the best option for you. If you only need someone to support you on the wedding day itself to ensure everything runs smoothly, day-of coordination may be enough.
Common mistakes when choosing a planning package
Choosing the wrong wedding planning package is more common than it seems. Some of the most frequent mistakes include:
- Choosing based on price alone, without checking what the package actually includes.
- Not reading the contract carefully or assuming services that aren’t included.
- Failing to consider the complexity of your own wedding (venue type, number of guests, suppliers, etc.).
- Assuming the venue will take care of everything.
Many of these mistakes are directly related to a misunderstanding of the type of service that’s truly needed. It’s also very common to confuse the role of a wedding planner with that of a coordinator, even though there are clear differences between a wedding planner and a day-of coordinator, which significantly affect the level of support you’ll receive during the planning process.
How much do wedding planning packages cost?
The cost of wedding planning packages can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the event, the number of guests, the location, the duration, and the type of services included. That said, to give you a general idea, these are the most common starting points:
- Day-of coordination: from €600, ideal for couples who only need support on the wedding day.
- Partial planning: from €1,000, designed for couples who have already made progress but need professional help to finalise details and coordinate everything.
- Full planning: from €2,000, covering everything from the initial concept to full execution.
Final prices may vary depending on the type of wedding, any customised services you require, the event location, and other specific factors. For this reason, requesting a proposal tailored to your real needs is always the best approach.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start with a basic package and upgrade it later?
In many cases, yes. Some planners offer modular services that allow you to scale from one package to another as your planning evolves. Always ask before signing.
What if I already have some suppliers booked?
A good planner can adapt and help you integrate the suppliers you’ve already chosen. It’s important to communicate this from the beginning so the scope of the service can be adjusted.
Is there an ideal package for small weddings?
Generally, partial planning or day-of coordination is sufficient. However, if you don’t want to handle anything yourself, full planning is also perfectly valid even for an intimate wedding.
When should I hire a full planning package?
When you don’t have time to manage everything, if you’re getting married in another city or country, if the event is complex, or if you simply want to enjoy the experience without stress.
What happens if I hire a package and my wedding changes completely?
It’s more common than you might think. Many couples start with one idea and later find that their event grows in size or complexity. In these cases, most wedding planners allow you to adjust the package you’ve hired or upgrade to a higher level of service.
Can I hire a planning package if my wedding is outside my city?
Absolutely. In fact, if you’re getting married in another city or country, having a local wedding planner is one of the smartest decisions you can make. There are packages specifically designed for destination weddings, including logistical management, site visits, and coordination with local suppliers to make the entire process easier from afar.
Conclusion: choose the package that gives you peace of mind, not just savings
Wedding planning isn’t just a to-do list. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Choosing the right package will help you enjoy the journey, make decisions with clarity, and avoid mistakes that can be costly in every sense.
If you’re looking for a wedding planner in Spain who can help you choose the ideal package for your wedding and adapt it to your style, we’re here to help. Our team offers personalised guidance so you can enjoy a truly unique experience from the very first moment.
Still unsure which package is right for you? Leave us a comment — we’d love to hear from you!
