If you’re newly engaged and starting to plan your wedding, you’ve probably thought about hiring a wedding planner. But is it actually necessary? What do planners even do? And is it worth the extra cost?

These are super common questions, and the answer isn’t always black and white.

Short answer? No, you don’t need a wedding planner. It’s totally possible to plan your own wedding, and people do it all the time! But if it’s within your budget, hiring a wedding planner can genuinely change your entire experience—for the better.

Here’s what you’re actually investing in when you bring a planner on board.

Vows and Things wedding planner Rayna Karise Power setting up a wedding reception. — Image taken by Hannah Redman

Time (and lots of it)

Weddings take so much time to plan—way more than you’d expect. Between researching vendors, comparing quotes, chasing people up, and making a million tiny decisions, it can easily feel like a part-time job. A planner already knows the industry inside and out, so we can save you hours (literally hundreds of them) by narrowing down options, negotiating, and handling the admin for you.

2. EXPERTISE AND EXPERIENCE

Planners live and breathe weddings. We know what works, what doesn’t, what to ask vendors, what red flags to look out for, and how to bring your vision to life. It’s not our first rodeo—we’ve seen it all, solved problems you didn’t know existed, and can help you make decisions with confidence.

Vows and Things wedding planner Rayna Karise Power setting up a dreamy wedding ceremony with draped fabric and white florals — Image taken by Heart and Soul Media

3. A MORE ENJOYABLE PLANNING EXPERIENCE

This is a big one. Planning a wedding should be exciting, not overwhelming. When you’ve got someone in your corner guiding the process, things feel less chaotic. You can actually enjoy the lead-up instead of burning out before the big day.

4. LESS STRESS ON THE DAY

On your wedding day, you shouldn’t be the one checking if the candles are lit, the drinks are flowing, or that the DJ has arrived. A planner manages the run sheet, coordinates your vendors, solves last-minute issues, and keeps everything moving behind the scenes so you can be fully present.

5. A WEDDING THAT FEELS LIKE YOU

Pinterest is great, but your wedding should be more than just pretty—it should reflect you. A good planner will take the time to understand your vibe, your priorities, your love story, and your guest experience goals, and then bring all of that together in a way that feels meaningful and cohesive.

Vows and Things wedding planner Rayna Karise Power adjusting big florals for a ceremony arrangement — Image take by The Light Photo & Film

So… is it worth it? In our opinion—yes. If you want to save time, avoid stress, feel supported, and create something truly memorable, a planner is one of the best investments you can make in your wedding. Especially when you're spending tens of thousands of dollars—it makes sense to have a pro overseeing how it all comes together.

Vows and Things only takes on a limited number of clients each year so we can give you the care and attention you deserve. Whether you're planning a big celebration or an intimate day filled with intention, we’d love to help bring it to life—without the stress.

Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can support you.