What’s the Difference Between Event Coordinator, Planner, and Stylist?
If you’ve ever searched for help with organising an event, you’ve probably come across the terms event planner, event coordinator, and event stylist. While they may sound similar, each plays a very different role in the event process.
Understanding the difference can help you hire the right person for your needs and avoid gaps in your planning. Here’s a simple breakdown of what each role does, and how they work together to create a successful event.
Event Planner: The Strategist Behind the Event
An event planner is responsible for the big picture. They manage everything from the initial concept and budgeting to logistics and timelines. If you’re starting from scratch and need full-service support, this is the role you need.
What an event planner does:
- Helps define the event objective and theme
- Creates a budget and timeline
- Sources venues, vendors and suppliers
- Manages contracts, bookings and schedules
- Oversees planning from start to finish
Best for:
Weddings, corporate events, brand launches, or any event that needs full planning and vendor management.
Event Coordinator: The On-the-Day Organiser
An event coordinator steps in closer to the event date. They make sure everything planned runs smoothly on the actual day. While they don’t usually handle the creative or budgeting side, they’re essential for execution.
What an event coordinator does:
- Reviews the event plan and schedule
- Confirms vendors and timelines
- Manages rehearsals or briefings
- Troubleshoots on the event day
- Keeps everything running on time
Best for:
Clients who have done most of the planning but need a professional to take over and run the show on the day itself.
Event Stylist: The Creative Eye
An event stylist focuses purely on how the event looks and feels. Their job is to bring the visual concept to life. They don’t handle logistics or vendors but work with planners and coordinators to create a cohesive design.
What an event stylist does:
- Develops the event’s theme or visual concept
- Designs layout, colour palette, florals, tablescapes and backdrops
- Works with furniture, props, lighting and signage
- Coordinates with vendors for décor setup
Best for:
Clients who already have a plan but want the event to look professional, on-theme and visually stunning.
Do You Need All Three?
Not always. Some clients hire a planner who also coordinates and styles. Others might only need one or two roles, depending on the event size and complexity. At Ora Events, we offer a flexible structure. Whether you need full planning, just day-of coordination, or someone to style your dream setup, we tailor our support to your needs.
Still Not Sure What You Need?
Speak with our team and we’ll help you figure it out. With over 15 years of experience handling weddings, corporate events, galas and private celebrations across Singapore, we’ll make sure you get the right people for the job.
Let’s create something unforgettable together.
