“The Planner of the Venue” and Other Mythological Creatures

If you’ve ever asked yourself,“Do I really need a wedding planner if the venue already has one?”You’re not alone.

But here’s something most couples don’t find out until it’s too late: There is no such thing as “the planner of the venue.” That role doesn’t exist, and believing it does is often where the stress begins.

Let’s clear this up once and for all.

Venue Coordinator vs. Wedding Planner: Two Very Different Jobs

When a venue says, “Don’t worry, we have our own planner,” what they usually mean is: They have a venue manaeger. Or an in-house coordinator.

That person is important. They ensure the venue runs smoothly. But they are not your planner.

Let’s take a closer look:

The Venue Coordinator:

• Works for the venue

• Focuses on venue-specific logistics: staffing, set-up, access times, fire exits, catering kitchen, etc

• May recommend a few vendors they’ve worked with before

• Will be present on the day—to manage the venue

The Wedding Planner:

• Works for you

• Guides every decision from the big picture to the smallest detail

• Designs the aesthetic and ensures it's cohesive across all elements

• Manages everything, not just the venue schedule, but also hair and makeup, transportation, vendor arrivals, timeline flow, ceremony direction, and guest needs

• Is there for you from the first moodboard to the last candle lit

We don’t clash with venue coordinators. Quite the opposite. A great venue coordinator is a sign of a well-run space, and we love that.

But our roles are entirely different. One doesn’t replace the other.

Only One of Us Works for You

As a wedding planner, my role is to be your advocate. Your creative partner. Your logistics manager. Your calm in the chaos.

I help you:

• Build a trusted team of vendors that match your style and budget

• Navigate decisions with clarity and confidence

• Avoid hidden costs and last-minute surprises

• Handle guest list tensions, unexpected weather, or travel hiccups

• Create a celebration that feels like you, not a replica of the last ten weddings held at the venue

And on the wedding day? I’m there from the first delivery to the last dance.

So you’re never the one answering questions like “Where does this go?” or “Who’s managing the bus schedule?”

You’re just living it. Fully. Joyfully.

Destination Weddings? Even More Reason to Have a Planner

If you’re planning a destination wedding, relying solely on a venue’s in-house coordinator is a risk. You need someone who speaks the language, knows the area, and has long-standing relationships with local professionals, not just a shortlist.

Destination weddings are beautiful. But they’re also layered, with legal formalities, cultural nuances, guest travel logistics, and communication across time zones. You want someone managing all of it, not just one piece.

So, Do You Really Need a Wedding Planner?

If you want a celebration that feels personal, seamless, and deeply considered, the answer is yes. Your venue coordinator helps make your wedding possible. Your planner helps make it unforgettable.

Planning a Wedding in Italy?

I’ve been planning weddings across Northern Italy for over a decade. This land is my home, and I know its rhythms, seasons, and hidden gems intimately.

I work closely with some of the most beautiful venues in the region, and I’m always grateful when a venue has a dedicated manager. It means we can work in tandem to ensure your day runs effortlessly.

But my role is different.

I’m here to walk with you, through each decision, each emotion, each detail.

To make sure your vision isn’t just respected, it’s translated into something real, meaningful, and unforgettable.

If your dream is to get married in Italy, with ease, with beauty, and with someone by your side the whole way, I’d love to hear your story.