I can’t count how many times someone has asked what I do, and when I say wedding planning, they respond with, “Oh! like the J.Lo movie?” I usually laugh and say, “Yeah, but not quite as glamorous.” Because in reality, being a wedding planner is so much more than standing around with a clipboard and a CIA-style earpiece (although I definitely do wear one).

It’s a behind-the-scenes role that’s filled with organization, quick problem-solving, and a whole lot of emotional support. And more and more couples are realizing just how valuable a wedding planner really is. So today, I wanted to answer the question: What does a wedding planner do?

But couples are catching on. The more complex weddings become (guest lists, travel logistics, weather, family dynamics, vendor teams), the more people are realizing how much wedding planners really do.

So let’s get into it. Today, I want to answer the question once and for all: What does a wedding planner do?

First Things First: You’re in Good Hands

I’ve been planning weddings long enough to say with confidence that no two events are ever the same, and that’s exactly why I love what I do. Whether I’m coordinating a weekend-long celebration in the Hudson Valley or a modern soirée in the heart of New York City, I bring the same level of care, organization, and calm to every detail.

I’ve helped couples navigate everything from rainstorms and last-minute layout changes to surprise ceremony additions and wardrobe malfunctions. And through it all, my job is to keep things moving smoothly so you feel taken care of.

Being a wedding planner means having a Plan A, B, and C, and knowing how to adjust without making it anyone else’s problem.

Because at the end of the day, I do this work to help people celebrate something incredibly meaningful. And I take that responsibility seriously.

So… Do I Need a Wedding Planner?

It’s a fair question. “Do I need a wedding planner?” is one I hear all the time, and the honest answer? It depends on what you want your experience to feel like.

If you want to enjoy your engagement, feel confident in your decisions, avoid overwhelm, and know that someone has your back on your wedding day (and every day leading up to it), then yes, hiring a planner might be one of the best decisions you make.

A past couple once told me, “I don’t know whether to call Berenice a planner, a decorator, a vendor liaison, an artist, or a friend”, and honestly, that’s exactly how I want my couples to feel

That’s the goal. Whether I’m creating timelines, managing vendor communication, or putting out tiny fires behind the scenes, I’m here to make your day feel effortless and joyful.

What a Wedding Planner Really Does

Let’s go behind the scenes for a moment. A big part of what I do happens before the wedding—when no one’s watching, but everything is getting done.

Here’s a glimpse of where my time often goes:

Reviewing vendor contracts and flagging red flags or missing details
Requesting and organizing COIs (Certificates of Insurance)
Creating detailed timelines for multiple days of events
Building custom layouts and floor plans
Coordinating deliveries, transportation, and vendor load-ins
Managing rehearsal schedules
Sourcing last-minute rentals, ceremony programs, or umbrellas (yes, really)
Running point on the wedding day, so you don’t have to lift a finger

But even more than the task list is the emotional energy I pour into your day. I’m your advocate, your go-to problem solver, your calm in the chaos.

So if you’ve ever wondered, What does a wedding planner do?. It’s this: I hold all the moving pieces so you and your loved ones can be fully present.

Your Celebration, Handled

Planning a wedding takes time, energy, and a lot of decision-making. My job is to make sure you never feel like you're doing it alone.

I hope this helped pull back the curtain a bit. And if you’ve been wondering whether hiring a planner is the right move, I hope this gives you the clarity and confidence to move forward.

You can learn more about my wedding planning services here or reach out directly to schedule a complimentary consultation. I’d love to support you as you plan your celebration.

Let’s make your day beautiful, together.

Schedule your free consultation today to get this celebration started!