The Top 10 Best Event Planners in Philadelphia

Planning an event in the City of Brotherly Love and feeling overwhelmed? An event planner can help to take some of the burden off your shoulders in terms of brainstorming, dealing with vendors and executing your vision. Whether you’re hosting the wedding of your dreams, a milestone party, or a giant corporate gathering, the city is home to talented planners who will take care of every single detail. From timeless venues in Center City to locations across the Main Line, these professionals are the best event planners in Philadelphia—creative forces turning visions into hassle-free celebrations.

How we curate our list of top event planners in Philadelphia

At Peerspace, our goal is simple: to connect you with the best local event professionals who can turn your plans into reality. Each industry leader on our list has been carefully selected based on a combination of client ratings, niche areas of service, and proven excellence. 

We evaluate client testimonials across multiple platforms, professional certifications and affiliations, and any notable awards or media recognition. We also look closely at their portfolios, seeking diverse examples of high-quality events that demonstrate creativity, strong execution, and poise under pressure. These planners don’t just know how to organize events; they know how to elevate them. We regularly update our list to ensure every industry leader continues to meet our high standards for professionalism, innovation, and attention to detail.

Top planners in Philadelphia

Philadelphia’s event scene is thriving, and these standout professionals are at the heart of it. Each industry leader brings a unique creative vision, exceptional organization, and a deep understanding of how to craft experiences that feel personal and unforgettable. Explore our curated list below of event management companies in Philadelphia to discover the city’s top planning talent and find the right expert to make your next event extraordinary.

1. Shannon Wellington Weddings

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Company name and founder/lead planner: Shannon Wellington Weddings / Shannon Wellington

Specialty/niche: Shannon Wellington Weddings, which shares a name with its founder, Shannon Wellington, is a boutique wedding planning and design firm based in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, serving the Mid-Atlantic region. Shannon focuses on full-service event planning, design and styling, as well as day-of coordination with a luxury, high-end aesthetic.

Notable projects or signature style: The company is known for crafting highly detailed and visually stunning weddings, with clients remarking on how the “design was flawless.” The firm has been featured in major wedding publications and blogs and has worked with a range of clients, including high‐profile families and estate venues.

Pricing: Their services are listed in the “$$$ – Moderate” range on third-party listings websites, indicating a premium but accessible market position.

Why we love them: At a time when many wedding planners might feel like contractors, Shannon Wellington Weddings radiates the hallmarks of a true creative partner. Shannon’s team not only executes logistics but genuinely becomes part of each client’s journey, ensuring that what unfolds feels cohesive and stress free. One review notes that planning felt like “a second job” until bringing Shannon’s team onboard. Its signature lies in the marriage of logistics and artistry. Many wedding planners handle timelines well, but few also deliver designs fit for a magazine spread while saying within budget.

Follow Shannon’s work on Instagram at @shannonwellingtonweddings.

2. The Styled Bride

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Company name and founder/lead planner: The Styled Bride / Susan Norcross

Specialty/niche: This upscale full-service wedding planning and styling firm is based in Philadelphia’s Old City. It focuses on highly curated weddings from the Main Line to the coast.

Notable projects or signature style: The Styled Bride is celebrated for designing weddings that feel deeply personal yet polished, blending textures and patterns, tailored venue selections (from museums to private homes) and immersive vendor teams.

Pricing: Full-service weddings start at about $15,000 in the Philadelphia region.

Why we love them: The Styled Bride makes its mark through the combination of deep event-industry experience and an exclusive boutique approach with owner Susan only accepting a limited number of weddings each year. Client reviews consistently highlight remarkable responsiveness, attention to detail, calm leadership on the wedding day, and a tangible sense of ease for the couple. 

For a look at Susan’s portfolio of work, head to her Instagram page: @styledbride.

3. Porch & Pearls

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Company name and founder/lead planner: Porch & Pearls / Marian Braccia

Specialty/niche: This Philadelphia-based luxury wedding planning firm provides full-service, partial, and day-of coordination for couples seeking an elevated, highly curated experience across Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

Notable projects or signature style: The firm is celebrated for creating weddings that feel effortless yet opulent. Clients mention weddings with more than 250 guests, multi-day celebration weekends and complex logistics handled flawlessly by Marian and her team.

Pricing: Starting prices are published on WeddingWire, with day-of coordination beginning at around $1,300, partial planning at $1,500, and full planning at $6,000.

Why we love them: What really sets Porch & Pearls apart is how Marian combines her background as a practicing attorney with her passion for event design and coordination, giving clients both defensible logistics expertise and creative vision. Reviewers repeatedly highlight how she anticipated vendor issues, managed family dynamics gracefully, and guided couples through complex decisions with rational, even-keeled clarity. 

Have a look at more of Marian’s work at @porchandpearls on Instagram.

4. Details Made Simple

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Company name and founder/lead planner: Details Made Simple / Carla Friday

Specialty/niche: Based primarily out of New Jersey with a strong presence in the Philadelphia and Bucks County regions, Details Made Simple specializes in day-of and month-of coordination for couples who have managed much of their planning on their own and are seeking an expert to handle the final stretch and execution. Their offering is tailored for clients who want to shift from planning mode into celebration mode with confidence.

Notable projects or signature style: Client testimonials showcase that the team at Details Made Simple thrives when complexity is high—multiple vendors, custom décor, large guest counts and challenging venues. One couple noted their coordinator “created a schedule… handled the tiniest details I hadn’t even considered” so they could “just relax.” Carla’s trademark style includes organized logistics and a calm demeanor.

Pricing: The company’s primary service tier is the day-of and month-of model. Carla does not offer hourly rates but rather package pricing, reflecting that the investment is for an entire day of oversight and execution.

Why we love them: Details Made Simple stands out because they serve the exact niche of couples who have done the heavy lifting in planning but now need someone to put it all together. Through numerous reviews, the common thread is stress relief. Clients repeatedly say they were thrilled to stop managing timelines and vendor check-ins and instead just be present.

Follow Details Made Simple for a better look at their recent work: @detailsmadesimple.

5. Elegant Events Planning + Design

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Company name and founder/lead planner: Elegant Events Planning + Design / Donielle Warren

Specialty/niche: Elegant Events Planning + Design focuses on full-service luxury wedding planning and design with a strong proficiency in multicultural, interfaith, and fusion weddings throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding region. It is also LGBTQ+ friendly.

Notable projects or signature style: The team has orchestrated multi-day wedding celebrations; elaborate cultural events combining Hindu, Catholic and other traditions; large guest counts; and complex logistics, all while maintaining a refined and elevated aesthetic. Their portfolio includes weddings at landmark venues like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and they’re known for design-forward execution that’s custom and high-end.

Pricing: While specific package costs are not prominently listed online, vendor listings indicate that Elegant Events operates at a multi-award-winning premium service tier, meaning pricing is a significant investment.

Why we love them: Elegant Events stands out because Donielle’s clients consistently emphasize how the team took true ownership of the wedding day, from design through execution. One couple noted that they had “a complicated wedding schedule over multiple days… and she did not miss a beat.” The positive client sentiment underscores responsiveness, organization and clear communication. Donielle’s particular strength in multicultural and fusion celebrations also sets her company apart in a region where many planners focus only on western-style weddings.

For a glimpse of Donielle’s work in motion, explore @eleganteventsphilly on Instagram.

6. Natalie Trento Events

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Company name and founder/lead planner: Natalie Trento Events / Natalie Trento

Specialty/niche: Natalie Trento Events, named after its founder, is a boutique firm that serves both New York City and Philadelphia, specializing in highly customized wedding planning and design across full-service, partial-planning and day-of coordination tracks.

Notable projects or signature style: Clients and media alike highlight Natalie’s meticulous attention to detail and ability to merge thoughtful planning with elevated design touches. For instance, one review praises her work on a destination wedding with 150 guests. Her portfolio features elegant, experiential weddings that feel personal and refined.

Pricing: While precise pricing tiers are not broadly listed, her boutique positioning and full-service offerings place her in the premium tier of planning companies. Her brand narrative emphasizes that she offers custom packages suited to each couple’s needs and scale of event, so it’s safe to assume her services are priced accordingly.

Why we love them: Reviewers consistently point to the stress-reducing effect of working with Natalie, saying they could finally relax because “she made the planning process as easy as possible” and handled a wide range of logistics with grace. What truly sets her apart is the ability to blend streamlined execution with creative flourishes.

Visit @natalietrentoevents on Instagram for a deeper look at Natalie’s work.

7. Bach to Basic

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Company name and founder/lead planner: Bach to Basic / Allison Odhner

Specialty/niche: Bach to Basic specializes in all-inclusive luxury bachelor and bachelorette party planning, focusing on destination experiences where owner Allison handles travel logistics, accommodations, event itineraries, décor and “arrival ready” group setups so the bride or groom and their friends can simply show up and celebrate.

Notable projects or signature style: The team has executed more than 600 events across over 85 destinations since 2016. Reviews highlight custom itineraries, fully decorated Airbnbs, pre-stocked fridges, VIP excursions (yachts, private dinners, party buses), and seemingly effortless coordination even when schedules changed.

Pricing: While exact packages vary based on destination, number of guests and level of customization, vendor listings describe tiered “VIP” experiences that group planners quote as “reasonable per person,” given the full service included.

Why we love them: What truly sets Bach to Basic apart is their dedication to the bachelor and bachelorette party niche. Allison has a deep understanding that group travel is complex—multiple guests, varying budgets, shared logistics, and high expectations. Bach to Basics’ clients repeatedly highlight that the team not only picks incredible venues and vendors but also takes care of seemingly minute but pivotal details (groceries, welcome decor, Uber pickups, backup plans, etc.) so that no one is left scrambling. 

You can follow Allison on Instagram at @bachtobasic for real-time inspiration.

8. Events by Renee

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Company name and founder/lead planner: Events by Renee / Renee Patrone Rhinehart

Specialty/niche: Based in Wayne, Pennsylvania, Events by Renee focuses on full-service event planning, partial planning, and day-of coordination for weddings and social functions throughout the Philadelphia region. The firm promotes a luxury yet approachable service that accommodates everything from rehearsal dinners and ceremonies to receptions, corporate events and birthday parties.

Notable projects or signature style: Client feedback consistently highlights how Renee and her team anticipate logistical needs. On WeddingWire, one reviewer emphasized how Renee and her assistant “were there bright and early … dealing with last-minute hiccups at the venue” so the bride “did not have to worry about a single thing.” 

Pricing: According to their vendor listing, Renee’s events start around $2,500 for day-of coordination, about $3,500 for partial planning, and approximately $8,000 for full planning services.

Why we love them: Events by Renee stands out because Renee acts less like a vendor and more like a trusted co-producer of your big day. The testimonials reflect that couples appreciate how she took real ownership, allowing them to focus on their guests and the moment, not the timeline. Transparent starting pricing also gives prospective clients a realistic sense of investment ahead of booking. 

You can find out more about Renee’s work on Instagram at @events_byrenee.

9. O.M.Gee Events

Company name and founder/lead planner: O.M.Gee Events / Allie Gee

Specialty/niche: O.M.Gee Events is a queer-owned and woman-owned full-service event planning and coordination firm based in Philadelphia, serving the greater Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York region. The niche for owner Allie lies in crafting celebrations that are not only well-executed but which feel uniquely tailored and emphasize joy.

Notable projects or signature style: O.M.Gee’s signature style shines through in couples’ praise for how Allie expertly handles complex logistics. One recent review described how “Allie was two steps ahead…and there was never a single moment of worry” during the event. The firm’s website highlights its goal to create events that “you’ll be smiling about for years to come” and to encourage couples to build their own traditions, rather than following cookie-cutter norms.

Pricing: According to the services page, their full-service planning package starts at $6,000, while their day-of (or month-of) coordination begins at around $3,500. Additional a la carte services and hourly consultations are available with separate pricing.

Why we love them: O.M.Gee Events stands out because it celebrates diversity and brings together high-level planning precision with a warm, personable approach that makes couples feel supported, not just scheduled. Clients frequently mention how Allie’s responsiveness, adaptability and attention to both the big picture and the micro-details allowed them to relax. 

For a peek behind the scenes, follow Allie at @omgee.events on Instagram.

10. The Calla Lily Event Planning

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Company name and founder/lead planner: The Calla Lily Event Planning / Naticia Fonseca

Specialty/niche: Based in Royersford, Pennsylvania, The Calla Lily Event Planning specializes in full-service wedding planning and design for couples who seek a personalized and elevated celebration. What sets them apart is their attentiveness to the couple’s vision—from color palette and décor to vendor selection and day-of execution. 

Notable projects or signature style: Reviews consistently highlight Naticia’s ability to greatly reduce stress. One client noted that she and her fiancé felt fully supported despite an out-of-state husband and a compressed planning window. 

Pricing: While specific package pricing isn’t broadly published, the vendor listings show that The Calla Lily Event Planning maintains a sterling reputation with a perfect 5.0 rating across 45 reviews on WeddingWire, which typically corresponds with premium service positioning and pricing.

Why we love them: Naticia earns our recommendation because The Calla Lily bridges the gap between design-focused planning and execution-focused coordination in a meaningful way. Many planners excel in one or the other, but Naticia and her team are noted repeatedly for ensuring both the aesthetic details and the logistics are handled in a flawless, upbeat manner. 

Be sure to check out their past events at @thecallalilyeventplanning on Instagram.

Tips for finding event planning companies in Philadelphia

Finding the right Philadelphia planner means more than creative flair—it’s about knowing how to navigate the city’s quirks, vendors, and venue logistics. Here’s how to evaluate potential planners with confidence:

1. Confirm local vendor connections, not just name recognition

Any planner worth their salt will have a large list of contacts for area caterers, AV teams, decor suppliers and other vendors. Someone who already knows and works with trusted partners in the region can help you secure the right team and avoid surprises at the last minute. Ask potential planners for their Philadelphia vendor list and references from recent events in the area.

2. Ask about their experience with permits and city coordination

Philadelphia’s Office of Special Events requires permits for public or park events, and street closures go through the Streets Department. When interviewing planners, ask:

• Which city departments have you worked with?
• How far in advance do you typically file applications?
• What kinds of permits have you handled—street use, amplified sound, or park reservations?

A capable planner should walk you through these details, not just assure you that “permits will be handled.”

3. Look for familiarity with local venue types

From historic mansions on the Main Line to lofts in Old City and green-space parks along the parkway, Philadelphia offers many venue styles, each with its own logistics. Ask your planner to share examples of past events at similar venues, and how they handled constraints like limited elevator use or curfew compliance.

4. Check their knowledge of logistics unique to Philadelphia

Between one-way streets, tight load-in zones, and limited parking, the city rewards planners who know how to coordinate deliveries and guest arrivals efficiently. Ask them how they handle vendor drop-offs in Center City or guest parking near the Parkway. They should be comfortable discussing Philadelphia Parking Authority coordination or recommending valet providers familiar with downtown venues.

Tips for planning an event in Philadelphia

Even with a professional planner, understanding how Philadelphia’s seasons, traffic, and event calendar affect logistics will make your experience smoother.

Factor in local weather history and backup plans

Philly winters are cold and unpredictable, and summers can be hot and humid. Before committing to an outdoor venue, check average temperatures and precipitation on the National Weather Service Philadelphia page. Ask venues about tenting options, heating or cooling systems, and how they’ve handled rain plans in the past.

Monitor the city’s event calendar to avoid scheduling conflicts

Major gatherings like the Philadelphia Marathon, Wawa Welcome America, Made in America Festival, and parades can close streets and flood hotels. Use the Visit Philadelphia events calendar to identify busy weekends, then coordinate with your planner to avoid overlapping with citywide events that could spike prices or complicate logistics.

Secure all necessary municipal permits early

Large events or public gatherings require a Special Event Permit through the City of Philadelphia. Applications can take weeks for approval—longer if you need reviews from Fire, Police, or Parks & Recreation. Your planner should clarify who’s responsible for each step and provide a written timeline for submissions.

Assess transportation and parking logistics for your venue

If your venue is downtown or near Independence Mall, parking will be limited. Before sending invitations, map nearby garages and public transit options (SEPTA stations, bus stops, regional rail). For high-guest-count events, consider providing shuttles from hotels or designated pickup points. Clear arrival instructions—shared by email or printed on invitations—can eliminate confusion on the day of.

Check out additional event planning tips, too, for more peace of mind. 

Event planning FAQs for Philadelphia

Do I need a special event permit?

If your event uses city-owned property, blocks streets, or will draw large crowds, you likely need a permit through the City of Philadelphia Office of Special Events. The application must be submitted (with a fee) well ahead of time. Late applications might incur higher costs. Even for smaller park‐based gatherings (50 or more people, amplified sound, etc.), you’ll need a Parks and Recreation permit. Your planner should guide you through which permits apply and when to submit for them.

What if I book a historic venue on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places?

Many venues in Philadelphia fall within historic registers and thus might have specific rules—a preservation clause, restricted décor, noise curfews, or limited access for production equipment. The Philadelphia Historical Commission oversees these properties. When planning, ensure your planner has past experience with these sites or has confirmed all restrictions in advance to avoid surprises.

What’s the best time of year to host an event?

Late spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October) are ideal—mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and lower humidity. Summer brings heat and thunderstorms; winter can bring snow and travel delays.

How do I handle transportation and parking?

Philadelphia’s dense layout and one-way streets can make parking difficult. Work with your planner to reserve valet services or coordinate guest shuttles. They can also help secure temporary loading zones or street-closure permits if your venue lacks dedicated parking.

When should I book a venue?

Top venues like The Curtis Atrium, Cescaphe Ballroom, and The Horticulture Center often book out a year or more in advance—especially for spring and fall weddings. Confirm your date early, and have your planner cross-check city events or parades that could impact access.

Event planning companies in Philadelphia: How to be featured

Do you know a truly great planner who’d love to be added to this list? Peerspace makes it easy. Nominate yourself, a colleague, or your event planner by completing this form, and if they meet our editorial standards, we’ll consider the person you nominate to be added to the Best Event Planners in Philadelphia list. 

Great events start with standout spaces

Philadelphia is bursting with creativity, culture, and energy, making it an incredible place to host unforgettable events. Whether you’re planning your own celebration or helping clients bring their visions to life, success starts with pairing the right space and the right team. Still searching for the perfect venue? Explore unique, bookable-by-the-hour spaces in Philadelphia on Peerspace, and see how the right atmosphere can make planning so much smoother.