If you think that a wedding planner is a luxury reserved for the very wealthy or very lazy, you may be surprised. While many orchestrate entire affairs from start to finish, professional wedding planners can facilitate in a number of capacities. Costs vary: Some charge by the hour and others charge a flat fee depending on how much help you need.

Here´s a simple breakdown of the various types of professional wedding planning services to help you determine the type of coordinator that suits your needs.

Full Planning
Extremely busy? Not too detail oriented? A full-service wedding planner may be your savior. A complete planning package can handle every last detail—from finding and securing your reception site and vendors, to negotiating and coordinating payment, to ensuring the big day progresses flawlessly.

Partial Planning
Sure, you´re resourceful – but who couldn´t use a little handholding and advice along the way? With a partial planning package, the planner offers assistance and guidance as needed. You remains hands-on, doing much of the research and decision making on your own.

Week of/Day of Planning
This is a great option for the bride who prefers to plan everything herself but would like to have a professional on hand to tend to last minute details — so you can relax and enjoy your day as the guest of honor.

A la carte Services
Stumped on invitations? Looked everywhere for that perfect band? Many planners offer a la carte services to suit your specific needs.

Once you've determined the level of professional planning service you'll need, consult this complete guide to hiring and working with a wedding planner .