Wedding Planner and Day-of Coordinator

Engaged couples and sometimes their families, often booking 6 to 18 months ahead.

Flat package fees for full planning, partial planning or day-of coordination, or a percentage of the wedding budget. Some planners also earn referral fees from suppliers, which should be disclosed to clients.

• Organised and calm under pressure
• Budgeting and negotiating with suppliers
• Clear communication with couples and families

• Commercial general liability insurance, and ask whether venues require proof of cover from planners
• Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence
• Wedding season is concentrated in warmer months, so plan cash flow for quieter winters
• Register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold (check with the CRA)
• Use written contracts that cover cancellations, postponements and who is responsible for supplier bookings

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on your software, website, contracts, marketing and insurance. These are estimates, so start with the essentials and add tools as bookings come in.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,500, depending on how many weddings you take and whether you offer full planning or day-of coordination. Wedding season is concentrated in warmer months, so plan for quieter winters.

Check commercial general liability insurance and whether venues require proof of cover. Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence, and when to register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold with the CRA. Use written contracts covering cancellations and postponements.