Here’s our answer. It can be less as a cost and more as your wedding sanity subscription. At Dolce Vita Makers, your trusted LA wedding planner, we’re breaking down what planners charge, and what you get for your gold-plated dollar.
What’s Included in a Wedding Planner’s Cost
Let’s clear something up: you’re not just paying for someone to cue the music. Wedding planner fees reflect a full suite of services designed to protect your peace of mind.
So, a planner’s job is part strategist, part logistics manager, part design curator. While packages vary, here’s what’s typically included in the base wedding planner cost:
- Custom planning timeline to keep everything on schedule
- Vendor sourcing and communication (yes, they’ll chase that florist for the fifth quote)
- Budget tracking and management to keep spending sane
- Day-of coordination, including vendor arrivals and last-minute problem solving
- Logistical oversight from rehearsal to reception breakdown
Beyond the basics, higher-tier packages often include:
- Design services from color palettes and layout planning to overall event aesthetics
- RSVP management and guest list tracking
- Multi-day coordination: think welcome dinners, brunches, or cultural ceremonies
- Vendor negotiation and contract reviews to ensure every dollar counts
Coordination handles the who and when, while design shapes the what and how. Full-service planning wraps all of it together.
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Tip: As you explore planners, keep in mind: what’s included (and what costs extra) will depend on your planner’s experience, pricing tier, and the scale of your event.
Full-Service vs. Day-Of: What Each Costs
From luxe, full-service experiences to single-day coordination, wedding planner prices vary dramatically based on how much hand-holding (or champagne refilling) you’re looking for.
Full-Service Planning: The All-In Experience
This is the top-tier, no-detail-left-behind option. A full-service wedding planner’s cost typically includes everything from vendor selection and design to budgeting, logistics, and on-site management for every wedding-related event.
Typical Cost Range
$5,000–$25,000+, depending on location, planner experience, and wedding complexity
What’s Included:
- Venue scouting and contract negotiation
- Full design concept and production
- Vendor coordination and meetings
- Budget tracking
- Timeline creation and execution
- Management of rehearsal, ceremony, and reception
- Travel, accommodation, and guest logistics (as needed)
Best For: Couples who want expert-level involvement from day one, and prefer sipping cocktails to chasing down caterers.
Partial or Month-Of Planning: The Middle Ground
Partial planning bridges the gap between full-service and hands-off. Month-of packages usually kick in 4–6 weeks before the wedding.
Typical Cost Range
$1,500–$8,000
What’s Included:
- Timeline finalization
- Vendor confirmations
- Limited design input or consultations
- Rehearsal coordination
- Day-of logistics management
Best For: Couples who’ve already booked most vendors and planned key elements, but want a pro to tie it all together.
Day-Of Coordination: The Wedding Day Lifesaver
Often misunderstood, day-of coordination doesn’t mean showing up for just the big day. Planners usually start 2–4 weeks in advance to prep. It’s ideal for couples who want to stay hands-on but free themselves on the actual wedding day, similar to how many couples prefer a DIY approach for backyard proposal ideas.
Typical Cost Range
$800–$3,000
What’s Included:
- Review of vendor contracts and timelines
- On-site coordination and setup oversight
- Vendor point-of-contact
- Emergency problem-solving (because something will go sideways)
Best For: Organized couples who’ve done the work but want someone else running the show when it counts.
For couples planning in Southern California, Dolce Vita Makers offers full-service wedding planning starting at $4,199. Based in Los Angeles, they handle every detail that makes luxury weddings beautifully effortless from start to finish.
Average Cost of a Wedding Planner in the U.S.
Wondering what you’ll actually pay? Let’s talk numbers. The average cost of a wedding planner in the U.S. is often quoted around $2,000–$3,000, but that’s only part of the picture.
National Average vs. Real-World Ranges
According to recent reports, most couples spend:
- $1,500–$3,000 for day-of or partial planning
- $4,000–$10,000+ for full-service planning
- In metro areas like NYC or LA, costs often start at $10,000 and can climb significantly
- In smaller cities or rural areas, full-service may fall in the $3,000–$7,000 range
Price by Planning Type
- Day-of Coordinator: $1,500–$3,000
- Month-of / Partial: $2,500–$6,000
- Full-Service: $5,000–$25,000+
Remember: Wedding planner cost reflects time, expertise, vendor access, and how involved you want your planner to be.
How Wedding Planners Structure Their Fees
If you’re wondering how much wedding planners charge, the answer is in a pricing buffet. From flat rates to hourly billing to percentage-based models, planners offer flexibility based on the level of hands-on involvement they’ll provide and the scale of your event.
Common Pricing Structures
Flat Fee
You pay a set amount for clearly defined services, which is great for budgeting.
Pros: Predictable cost, easier to compare quotes
⚠️ Cons: Less flexibility if your needs expand mid-planning
Percentage of Total Budget
Often used in luxury or full-service packages, planners charge 10–20% of your total wedding spend.
Pros: Planner is motivated to optimize your entire budget
⚠️ Cons: The higher your budget, the higher their fee
Hourly Rate
Some planners charge by the hour, especially for consultations or partial planning help. Rates range from $75 to $250/hour.
Pros: Ideal for small weddings or when you need targeted help
⚠️ Cons: Can add up quickly with unclear time estimates
Hidden Costs to Watch
Before signing anything, ask about:
- Travel fees for destination or out-of-area weddings
- Assistant or team member costs
- Extended event hours or overtime
- Fees for additional events (welcome dinner, farewell brunch)
- Knowing how wedding planner fees are structured helps you pick a pro who fits your budget and your vision.
Hourly Rates and What They Cover
Hiring a planner doesn’t have to mean a five-figure commitment. In fact, many couples who are wondering about the wedding planner cost per hour are pleasantly surprised to find flexible, pay-as-you-go options that make perfect sense for smaller weddings or targeted help.
Typical Hourly Ranges
- Entry-level or early-career planners: $75–$125/hour
- Mid-tier professionals: $125–$200/hour
- Luxury or high-demand planners: $200–$300+/hour
What’s Covered Hourly
- Vendor research and outreach
- Budget consultations and planning sessions
- Timeline creation
- Site visits and walk-throughs
- Final-week coordination calls
Hourly billing is perfect for couples doing most of the work themselves but needing a professional to tie up loose ends or confirm details.
It’s also a great way to “try before you commit” if you’re unsure how much planning help you’ll need. For the right couple, paying hourly can stretch the budget and the support.
5 Key Factors That Influence Planner Pricing
These five variables play the biggest roles in shaping a planner’s rate:
1. Wedding Location
Rates often reflect the local market. Planners based in cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Miami tend to charge higher fees. These locations involve premium vendors, complex permits, and more logistics.
Copyright © Photo by Dolce Vita Makers
2. Guest Count and Timeline
Larger weddings mean more moving parts. A 200-guest event across a three-day weekend takes far more coordination than an intimate gathering of 50. Multiday timelines or cultural ceremonies typically raise the price.
3. Customizations and Design
Weddings that involve unique venues, custom builds, or layered vendor coordination usually fall under design-heavy categories. These require more planning hours, creative strategy, and production support.
4. Planner Experience and Recognition
Highly regarded planners with awards or a portfolio of premium events charge higher rates. Clients pay for their expertise, vendor relationships, and ability to manage complex events with precision. Some planners have certifications or industry memberships, which may also influence their fees, although proven experience often carries more weight.
5. Vendor Access and Bundled Services
Planners with trusted vendor relationships can unlock exclusive pricing or negotiate better terms. Some also bundle services across multiple events, such as rehearsal dinners or farewell brunches. These packages can raise or lower the overall cost depending on what’s included.
The cost of a wedding planner depends on how they work and what they bring to your specific celebration. Pricing reflects experience, structure, and the scope of your wedding.
Budgeting for a Wedding Planner That Fits Your Vision
If you’re searching for how much a wedding planner costs, you might also be figuring out how much you should spend. The right budget comes down to priorities and clear expectations.
Copyright © Photo by Dolce Vita Makers
1. Set Your Maximum Spend
Define your total wedding budget first, then allocate a realistic portion to planning. Many experts suggest reserving 10 to 15 percent for a planner, depending on the level of involvement you want.
If you’re also budgeting for special moments, check guides like the best places to propose in Los Angeles or our picnic proposal service for inspiration.
2. Match Your Budget to the Planner’s Tier
Full-service planners often oversee entire weekends and charge accordingly. If you’re looking for day-of coordination, your budget can stretch further. The scope of service should match your needs.
3. Use Tools That Keep You Accountable
Digital budgeting tools help you track costs and stay within your comfort zone. Some planners also provide proposals or breakdowns, which outline exactly what you’ll receive.
4. Understand the Value Behind Higher Rates
Planners who charge more often save couples money in the long run. They help avoid costly mistakes, secure stronger vendor deals, and improve overall efficiency. Sometimes, the added cost creates better results and less stress.
If you’re based in LA and seeking full or partial planning, Dolce Vita Makers provides clearly priced packages. Their partial planning starts at $2,499, ideal for couples who considers creative touches like small wedding ideas or intimate design upgrades.
When Hiring a Planner Saves You Money
Hiring a planner may seem like a luxury, but in many weddings, it becomes a financial advantage.
- Vendor Negotiation: Experienced planners can reduce rates or add perks through long-standing relationships. This is similar to how we advise couples choosing questions to ask a wedding venue to avoid hidden costs.
- Tighter Timelines: Organized planning reduces vendor overtime or late fees.
- Mistake Prevention: Skipping permits or miscalculating rentals can cost hundreds. A planner helps you avoid those setbacks.
Is a Wedding Planner Worth the Cost?
For many couples, the right planner brings strategy behind every vendor and calm when you need it most. So, is a wedding planner worth it? If your time, budget, or nerves matter, the answer leans yes. But the right planner fits your needs.
When you’re ready to meet planners who match your style and budget, start with Dolce Vita Makers. We connect you with verified pros who plan with precision, so your wedding feels as effortless as it looks.
Couples planning in Los Angeles, Malibu, or the OC can rely on Dolce Vita Makers for stylish, stress-free events at transparent rates. Our full-service and partial packages are designed to flex with your vision and take the pressure off every step of the way.
FAQs
What is the typical cost of a wedding planner in Los Angeles?
Planner fees in LA vary based on experience and service level. Partial planning often starts around $2,500, while full-service packages can range from $4,000 to $20,000+, depending on the complexity and scale of the event.
Do wedding planners charge a percentage or a flat fee?
Some planners use flat-rate pricing, while others charge 10%–20% of your total wedding budget. The model depends on the planner’s business structure and your event needs. Be sure to clarify this during your initial consultation.
Is it worth hiring a planner for a small wedding?
Yes. Even intimate weddings involve logistics, vendors, and timelines. A planner helps streamline those details, letting you focus on the experience. Smaller weddings may also qualify for hourly or partial planning options.
What’s included in partial wedding planning services?
Partial packages usually cover vendor recommendations, design consultations, timeline planning, and day-of coordination. At Dolce Vita Makers, this starts at $2,499 and is ideal for couples who need expert input but want to stay hands-on.
How early should I book my wedding planner?
It’s best to book a planner 9 to 12 months before your date, especially for full-service planning. Planners book quickly in high-demand markets like LA, so reaching out early secures both availability and strategic planning time.
