The 16 Best Wedding Planners in Chicago
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Written by Annie Muscat
Editor & Publisher
- November 17, 2025
- 22 min read
- Events
Source: Peerspace
If there’s one city that really knows how to throw a party, it’s Chicago. From sweeping skyline views to lakefront sunsets and historic ballrooms that practically sparkle on their own, the Windy City sets the stage for weddings that feel effortlessly timeless. It’s no wonder the Chicago metro area hosted over 40k weddings in 2024.
But behind every seamless celebration is a planner who knows how to turn organized chaos into pure magic. A great wedding planner does more than just manage vendors and timelines. They calm nerves, solve problems before you even know they exist, and keep the joy front and center.
With the right professional in your corner, your only job is to soak up every moment of the day you’ve been dreaming about. Below, we’ve rounded up the 16 best wedding planners in Chicago.
How we put our list together
At Peerspace, we know the right wedding planner in Chicago can make all the difference. You need a creative visionary who knows how to make the city’s vibrant energy work in your favor. That’s why we set out to spotlight Chicago’s standout professionals—the ones couples rave about, publications feature, and industry peers respect.
These industry leaders earned their place on our list by excelling in a few key areas:
- Glowing client reviews and testimonials across multiple platforms
- Recognition through awards, press features, or local accolades
- A strong, diverse portfolio that shows range and creativity
- Professional certifications or affiliations with trusted wedding organizations
- A proven track record of delivering memorable, well-executed events
Every planner featured here has shown exceptional creativity, professionalism, and an instinct for the details that matter. They craft experiences that reflect who you are as a couple and it really shows.
Featured wedding planners in Chicago
Ready to move from dreaming to doing? Here are the wedding-planning professionals in Chicago who can translate your Pinterest vision board into reality. Take a look, explore their portfolios, and find the one who feels right for your style and vibe.
1. The Urban Union
Company name and founder/lead planner: The Urban Union / J.B. Herron
Specialty/niche: Full-service planning and design, including inclusive officiating, with a focus on creating weddings that deeply reflect each couple’s story and identity. The Urban Union proudly supports LGBTQ+ couples and celebrates love in all its forms.
Notable projects or signature style: The Urban Union is recognized for its inclusive, meaningful ceremonies and attention to detail, tailored to each couple’s values and backgrounds. With a background in public speaking and large-scale events, J.B. Herron brings both creativity and logistical genius to every celebration.
Pricing: Final phase planning and day-of coordination starts at around $3,500. Full-service planning starts at around $7,000. Additional services like officiating (which includes a full mimosa bar for the bridal suite!) cost around $1,500.
Why we love them: Couples rave that working with The Urban Union means way more than an airtight timeline. It’s about feeling truly heard and celebrated. J.B.’s warm demeanor shines through his website and social media presence alone. Clients share that the team’s inclusive approach makes the planning process feel personal and stress-free. Their ability to elevate both the ceremony and the behind-the-scenes coordination makes them a standout.
Learn more about The Urban Union on their website and Instagram.
2. Amelia Cole Weddings + Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Amelia Cole Weddings + Events / Regina DiTomassi
Specialty/niche: Full-service and partial planning with strong emphasis on design and styling alongside logistics. Regina’s team helps couples who want elevated, unique weddings in the Chicago region (and beyond) by bringing both structure and creative flair.
Notable projects or signature style: Known for lush, romantic textures—and a self-proclaimed “love [for] peonies and greenery”—Amelia Cole’s work earns consistent five-star reviews and awards. She makes sure couples always feel supported by sending at least two hand-selected planners on their big day.
Pricing: Partial planning starts around $4,500 and full-planning/large-scale options begin around $12,000—with a few packages in between. The team emphasizes that they do what they can to create custom packages tailored to each couple’s needs.
Why we love them: Clients praise Regina and her team for their professionalism, warmth, and effortless communication throughout the planning process. Many describe wedding days that unfold seamlessly and leave friends and family in awe. It’s proof of the care and intention Amelia Cole brings to every detail. With her, couples feel they’ve found both a meticulous planner and a trusted creative partner.
Learn more about Amelia Cole Weddings + Events on their website and Instagram.
3. Love Story Weddings and Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Love Story Weddings and Events / Jelena Radoicic
Specialty/niche: Full-service wedding planning and design that blends elevated style with deeply personal moments. Jelena and her team support couples who want more than just “a day”— they aim for an experience that’s meaningful, beautifully styled, and smoothly executed.
Notable projects or signature style: Love Story is praised for its luxury touches and international flair. Their portfolio features lush florals, custom draping, and thoughtful design across Chicago and the Midwest. Clients looking for culturally-inspired or destination-adjacent weddings often turn to this team.
Pricing: Three-month coordination starts at $3,000. Guidance for DIY couples who still want a little support starts at $5,800. Full planning starts at $13,000 and includes everything from budgeting, venue selection, design, guest list management, and more. All clients receive complimentary honeymoon planning!
Why we love them: You’ll feel from the very first meeting that Jelena truly hears your vision, and then elevates it with style and precision. Reviewers shout out her team’s patience and level of knowledge. Their blend of creativity and calm execution means you get the glamorous design you want without the overwhelm. For couples who care deeply about aesthetics, Love Story Weddings and Events stands out.
Learn more about Love Story Weddings and Events on their website and Instagram.
4. Heirloom Event Company
Company name and founder/lead planner: Heirloom Event Company / Haylie
Specialty/niche: Boutique planning and design studio offering full, partial, and month-of coordination. They specialize in weddings that feel personal, intentional, and joyfully executed—whether downtown Chicago or beyond.
Notable projects or signature style: Heirloom’s work often features elegant-meets-relaxed styling—think heirloom details, warm textures, and intentional moments. Their client list and review profile reflect consistently strong organization and thoughtful design.
Pricing: Event management starts around $2,995 and is perfect for organized couples who just want a little extra support during the 6 weeks leading up to and on their wedding day. Full-service planning starts at $8,995 and international planning at $12,000.
Why we love them: Couples praise Haylie’s thoughtfulness, organization, and timely communication. She picks up on all the subtle cues from couples—things that other planners might brush over—and incorporates them in a way that makes the big day feel that much more personal. That attention to detail and calm efficiency makes everything feel elegant and relaxed rather than frantic. Heirloom Event Company is a great match for couples who value thoughtful design and want to feel like their planner is a trusted partner.
Learn more about Heirloom Event Company on their website and Instagram.
5. Amanda Paige Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Amanda Paige Events / Amanda Paige Friedman
Specialty/niche: Full-service planning and coordination that’s inclusive, transparent, and styled for modern couples. Amanda’s team emphasizes organization and vision alignment while letting your personality shine through.
Notable projects or signature style: Known for its vibrant yet polished events, Amanda Paige Events has been featured for its ability to handle everything from intimate celebrations to larger-scale weddings with ease. Their commitment to inclusivity and client empowerment sets them apart.
Pricing: Coordination—which includes design assistance—ranges from $1,800–$5,000. Partial planning can cost between $4,500–$8,500 and full service ranges from $7,500–$11,500.
Why we love them: Clients consistently describe Amanda as feeling more like a close friend than a planner. From day one, her organization and attention to detail shines. It’s no wonder why couples refer to Amanda and her team as “rock stars.” The combination of top-tier logistics, friendly collaboration, and authenticity makes Amanda Paige Events a standout for couples who want to enjoy the journey and the day.
Learn more about Amanda Paige Events on their website and Instagram.
6. Danielle Kolb Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Danielle Kolb Events / Danielle Kolb
Specialty/niche: Full-service planning, partial planning, and day-of coordination tailored to each couple’s style, personality, and vision. Danielle emphasizes clear communication and a streamlined process so planning feels manageable and enjoyable.
Notable projects or signature style: Refined, personal events with an emphasis on elegant details and smooth event flow. Listings on The Knot and WeddingWire highlight consistent five-star feedback and thoughtful coordination.
Pricing: Schedule a consultation to receive a custom quote based on your desired package.
Why we love them: Reviews consistently praise Danielle’s calm guidance and reliability. She’s fastidious without feeling overbearing. One client shared that her team made planning “hassle-free” and handled every single detail so the day could unfold without stress. That sort of grounding presence is exactly the kind of behind-the-scenes support couples hope for when they’re facing one of the biggest days of their life.
Learn more about Danielle Kolb Events on their Instagram.
7. Emerald Events by Sonam
Company name and founder/lead planner: Emerald Events by Sonam / Sonam Khatau
Specialty/niche: Luxury event planning with design-forward, culturally fluent celebrations in Chicago and beyond. Sonam draws on a background in Bollywood art direction to bring cinematic polish to the planning and design process.
Notable projects or signature style: Elegant, editorial aesthetics with meticulous detailing—think layered textures, statement florals, and immersive atmospheres. The studio’s site emphasizes tailored experiences and “unforgettable moments.”
Pricing: Schedule a consultation to receive a custom quote based on your desired level of support.
Why we love them: Clients highlight Sonam’s creative vision, warm professionalism, and energy that makes her feel like “part of the family.” Her storytelling approach, rooted in visual craft, translates into events that feel chic and deeply personal. One review from parents of the newlyweds praised Sonam for ensuring everything from the pre-reception to the cocktail hour to the ceremony to the after party and even morning-after brunch were perfect. That’s commitment!
Learn more about Emerald Events by Sonam on their website and Instagram.
8. Sustainable Soirées
Company name and founder/lead planner: Sustainable Soirées / Bristol Echeverria
Specialty/niche: This Chicago-based planning and design firm specializes in weddings that feel luxurious and intentional—while keeping sustainability front and center. They offer full-service support that includes eco-conscious design and travel advising so you can focus on your experience, not just the checklist.
Notable projects or signature style: Known for marrying stylish aesthetics with environmental mindfulness, Sustainable Soirées brings a thoughtful touch to every event. Their team features a master-certified planner and design consultant who understands how to pull off high-end looks without excess.
Pricing: Packages start at $2,500. Book a complimentary consultation to receive a quote tailored to your specific wants.
Why we love them: What stands out most is how they make “eco” feel elevated rather than a compromise. For couples who care as much about their love story and its authenticity as they do about the well-being of the planet, Sustainable Soirées brings an intentional balance that not many other planners emphasize. The combination of design experience and genuine care means couples can plan with confidence and enjoy their day without stressing about logistics or environmental impact.
Learn more about Sustainable Soirées on their website and Instagram.
9. truejoyweddings
Company name and founder/lead planner: truejoyweddings / Alicia & Deric Shonuga
Specialty/niche: Husband-and-wife team offering full-service planning and wedding management with a focus on joyful, highly personalized celebrations. Their approach centers your story and guest experience.
Notable projects or signature style: Modern, bright, and welcoming design sensibility; reviews on trusted directories note thoughtful logistics and above-and-beyond service, even on short timelines.
Pricing: Book a complimentary initial consultation to learn more about pricing. List services include general event consulting, month-of coordination, partial planning, and full planning.
Why we love them: Couples rave about the duo’s positivity and proactive problem-solving. They’ve proven themselves successful in handling pesky last-minute changes with grace and calmness while keeping the day stress-free for the couple. You feel their namesake ‘joy’ in both the planning process and the celebration itself.
Learn more about truejoyweddings on their website and Instagram.
10. Bweddings
Company name and founder/lead planner: Bweddings / Barbara Vanni
Specialty/niche: Full-service planning and design for luxury city and destination weddings, with an additional office in Milan. Known for a highly personalized process that balances creative direction with exacting logistics.
Notable projects or signature style: Sophisticated, fashion-forward aesthetics and polished production across venues in Chicago and abroad; directory profiles reflect strong reviews and “Best of Weddings”-level recognition.
Pricing: Pricing varies widely based on your package (e.g., international (Caribbean, Mexico, or Italy), full planning, partial planning, floral design).
Why we love them: Clients describe their experience with Bweddings as elevated yet easy. It’s luxurious without being overly pretentious—which is what couples deserve as they face a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Bweddings offers detail-rich planning with a warm, collaborative touch. It’s the kind of team that keeps momentum (and morale) high from design boards to the last dance.
Learn more about Bweddings on their website and Instagram.
11. HBIC Weddings
Company name and founder/lead planner: HBIC Weddings / Diane Brisk
Specialty/niche: Chicago-based planners offering planning and coordination that’s structured, friendly, and genuinely fun. Their goal: help couples plan at their own pace while avoiding overwhelm.
Notable projects or signature style: Reviews highlight an upbeat, solutions-oriented team with excellent vendor communication and day-of execution; pricing references from local media list coordination beginning around $2,495.
Pricing: Coordination starts at $2,495 while full planning begins around $5,959. Bonus feel-good moment! A portion of your payment will be donated to the World Central Kitchen and Lurie Children’s Hospital. Schedule a consult for a custom quote.
Why we love them: Couples say HBIC made them feel supported and excited, not anxious, about planning. HBIC takes the weight off of couple’s shoulders so that they aren’t filled with dread in the months leading up to their day. Instead, they can rest assured that every element—no matter how minor—will be flawlessly executed. That blend of energy and organization makes the process (and the party itself) feel effortless.
Learn more about HBIC Weddings on their website and Instagram.
12. Kokate Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Kokate Events / AJ & Elizabeth Kokate
Specialty/niche: Bespoke planning and design from a husband-wife duo with deep experience in multicultural and large-scale celebrations, plus destination weddings. Offers fully tailored packages and creative services.
Notable projects or signature style: Bold, creative concepts executed with precision; The Knot and WeddingWire profiles note events up to 2,000 guests and a reputation for seamless coordination.
Pricing: A ‘Simple Partnership’—perfect for couples who have everything planned out, but could use some extra support leading up to the wedding and day-of—starts at $2,000. Extensive Partnership starts at $4,000 and Complete Partnership starts at $5,000.
Why we love them: With extensive backgrounds in event and people management, AJ and Elizabeth are experts at getting things done efficiently and gracefully. Clients highlight warm communication, timeline mastery, and the ability to anticipate needs so that you can enjoy every moment while the team keeps everything on track. It’s a high-touch service with imaginative design.
Learn more about Kokate Events on their website and Instagram.
13. The Event Chicago
Company name and founder/lead planner: The Event Chicago / Lety
Specialty/niche: Full planning, event design, and wedding coordination in Chicago and the suburbs, with an approachable style and an emphasis on sweet-table design and creative party concepts.
Notable projects or signature style: Clean, modern styling and guest-friendly flow; packages range from coordination to comprehensive planning, with clear outlines of what’s included for day-of support.
Pricing: Schedule a consultation to receive a custom quote based on your desired package.
Why we love them: Couples appreciate the team’s responsiveness and “run the show” mentality. Nothing slips through the cracks and you can see the team’s expertise shine through every little detail. Couples can still be in the driver’s seat, but can feel confident about letting Lety and her team take the wheel as their day approaches. The Event Chicago’s detail-oriented approach brings order and polish to the big day.
Learn more about The Event Chicago on their website and Instagram.
14. Everthine Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Everthine Events / Sofia Gutierrez
Specialty/niche: Full-service planning, design, and coordination for intentional, romantic weddings across Chicagoland. The studio focuses on experiential design that lets couples feel fully present.
Notable projects or signature style: Ethereal, romantic aesthetics with meticulous planning; trusted directories cite five-star reviews and thoughtful package structures (from wedding management to full planning).
Pricing: Schedule a consultation to receive a custom quote based on your desired package.
Why we love them: Reviews speak to an attentive team that’s both creative and organized, turning checklists into a celebration that reflects your love story. Sofia’s passion for what she does shines through in her attitude and careful approach to planning. Everthine is an easy choice for couples who value design, calm execution, and a planner who feels way more like a friend than a business partner.
Learn more about Everthine Events on their website and Instagram.
15. Vowed to You
Company name and founder/lead planner: Vowed to You / Kyna Horton
Specialty/niche: Full-service planning, partial planning, and day-of coordination with more than 15 years of experience. Known for practical guidance, strong vendor connections, and a calm, client-first approach.
Notable projects or signature style: Polished, guest-centric events with an emphasis on organization; directories reflect a 4.9/5 review profile and consistent praise for clear communication.
Pricing: Schedule a consultation to receive a custom quote based on your desired package.
Why we love them: Clients consistently note how Kyna goes above and beyond, answering questions quickly and smoothing out logistics so the day feels genuinely effortless. Working with Kyna and her team puts couples at ease so they can focus their energy on savoring every moment with loved ones. It’s Vowed to You’s steady expertise and calming energy that keeps couples’ nerves low and their joy high.
Learn more about Vowed to You on their website and Instagram.
16. Sholeh Events, LLC
Company name and founder/lead planner: Sholeh Events, LLC / Sholeh Munion
Specialty/niche: Full planning, partial planning, and wedding management with inclusive, relationship-driven service. Sholeh brings corporate and nonprofit experience plus professional certifications to each event.
Notable projects or signature style: Thoughtful, structured planning with an emphasis on belonging and guest experience; Zola lists starting prices around $3,000, and WeddingWire reviews show a perfect five-star rating.
Pricing: Schedule a consultation to receive a custom quote based on your desired package.
Why we love them: Evident through her diverse wedding and event management experience, Sholeh brings the ideal trinity to planning: organization, thoughtfulness, and flexibility. Couples who have worked with her team are adamant that their day could not have been any more perfect, and Sholeh is the driving force behind that perfection! That blend of heart and meticulousness is exactly what makes a wedding day feel effortless.
Learn more about Sholeh Events, LLC on their website and Instagram
Choosing the right planner in Chicago
Prioritize planners with deep Chicago vendor networks
Chicago’s wedding scene runs on trusted relationships—florists who know how wind tunnels hit certain rooftops, DJs familiar with neighborhood sound limits, and Chicago wedding venues that book years ahead. Shortlist planners who regularly work in your target neighborhoods (West Loop lofts, River North hotels, South Shore cultural sites, North Side gardens) and can open doors to in-demand vendors.
Confirm permit knowledge across settings
If you’re eyeing a garden, beach, or skyline backdrop, you’ll likely need permits. Ask potential planners how familiar they are with the Chicago Park District’s permit process and how early they file for approvals.
Ask how they navigate major city events and street closures
Ask how they stay on top of the city’s event calendar and coordinate around closures. Large events like Lollapalooza and the Chicago Marathon can change traffic, hotel rates, and photo access. Great planners anticipate these disruptions and plan accordingly.
Verify familiarity with noise rules
If your celebration includes outdoor music or a late-night after-party, ask how your planner coordinates with venue managers to keep sound within city-mandated limits.
Confirm guest-movement logistics
Transit and parking can make or break the guest experience. Ask how your planner handles CTA/Metra schedules, ADA accessibility, and ride-share coordination during high-traffic weekends.
Planning a Windy City Wedding
Lock venue dates after scanning the city event calendar
Before placing deposits, check the citywide event calendar for major festivals or races that could affect hotels, noise levels, and access to lakefront parks.
Research and obtain the right permits
The Chicago Park District requires Special Event permits for outdoor ceremonies in parks and on beaches, along with separate photography permits for popular spots like Millennium Park and Lurie Garden. Your planner should manage filings and confirm timing with park staff.
Design for Chicago weather
Spring can be rainy and windy; summer brings heat and festivals; fall is popular (and books early); winter can be magical but requires indoor logistics and cozy transit planning. Use official climate data to inform ceremony times, tent setups, and guest comfort strategies.
Coordinate guest transportation
For downtown weddings, combine a hotel shuttle or coach with CTA directions (and accessibility info). For suburban ceremonies with downtown receptions, Metra weekend passes can simplify travel. It may be smart to include QR codes or links to a transportation plan in your welcome guide.
Time your marriage license and officiant paperwork
Plan your license pickup at the Cook County Clerk and note the 24-hour waiting period before the ceremony. Your planner or officiant should file the signed license promptly after the wedding.
FAQs: Chicago Wedding Prep
Do I need a permit to get married in a Chicago park or on the beach?
Yes. The Chicago Park District requires a Special Event Permit for outdoor ceremonies in parks and on beaches. Your planner will handle applications and timing.
Do I need a photography permit for Millennium Park or conservatories?
Often, yes. Many iconic backdrops require a separate filming or photography permit. Build in lead time and confirm restrictions before your date.
What’s the best time of year for a Chicago wedding?
Late May through June and September through early October offer mild weather and beautiful scenery. Spring can be wet and windy, midsummer brings festivals, and winter is ideal for elegant indoor celebrations.
How do we get a marriage license in Chicago?
Apply with the Cook County Clerk’s Office. There’s a 24-hour waiting period before your ceremony, and the license must be filed after your wedding.
Wedding planners in Chicago: join us!
Looking to grow your wedding planning business in Chicago? Peerspace wants to connect with you. If you’ve crafted unforgettable weddings and embody the creativity, professionalism, and attention to detail that define an industry leader, we’d love to showcase your work. To be considered for our list, complete this short form.
Amazing weddings = the right team + the right venue
Chicago’s energy makes it one of the most exciting cities in the world to celebrate love. Whether you’re an industry leader helping couples bring their dream day to life or a soon-to-be-wed duo searching for the perfect planner, great weddings start with the right partnerships and the perfect setting.
Still hunting for the perfect backdrop? Explore Peerspace’s collection of stunning, bookable-by-the-hour wedding venues in Chicago to find the space that matches your vision and makes your day feel straight out of a fairytale.
