Top 6 Wedding Planners in Michigan
-
Content Marketing Manager -
Editor & Publisher
- February 26, 2026
- 20 min read
- Events
Source: Peerspace
Michigan is a state defined by incredible variety, offering landscapes that shift dramatically from the industrial chic of downtown Detroit to the pristine, sandy coastlines of the Great Lakes. Known as the “Great Lakes State,” it boasts more than 3,000 miles of freshwater coastline, making it a premier destination for waterfront celebrations that rival oceanfront weddings. Beyond the water, the state is home to vibrant cultural hubs like Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor, as well as the rustic charm of the Upper Peninsula.
This diversity creates a thrilling playground for event hosts, but it also presents unique logistical hurdles—from navigating lake-effect weather patterns to managing travel logistics across two distinct peninsulas. The competitive landscape in Michigan has fostered a community of highly skilled planners who are experts at transforming everything from historic automotive factories to remote lakeside retreats into breath-taking wedding venues.
The planners on this list master the complex logistics of Michigan’s distinct seasons and geography, ensuring your event runs smoothly whether it’s a snowy winter gala or a humid summer garden party. We’ve curated this guide to help you find the partner who matches your aesthetic and communication style, ensuring your Michigan wedding is as stress-free as it is stunning!
How we built our list
Finding a planner who matches your aesthetic and communication style is critical to the success of your event. We’ve carefully selected the professionals on this list based on a rigorous set of criteria designed to ensure quality and reliability. We know that a planner is more than just an organizer—they are your advocate, your designer, and your peace of mind.
Our selection criteria include:
- Client reviews across multiple platforms: We analyze feedback from couples on The Knot, WeddingWire, Google, and social media to ensure consistent satisfaction. We look for patterns in reviews that highlight reliability, crisis management, and emotional support.
- Industry recognition and awards: We look for planners who have been acknowledged by peers and publications for their excellence. Features in local and national wedding blogs or awards from industry associations indicate a high level of respect within the professional community.
- Professional credentials and associations: Active membership in industry groups, ongoing education, and verified business operations are often held by our planners. This ensures they are up-to-date on safety standards, insurance requirements, and industry trends.
Best wedding planners in Michigan
1. Mitten Weddings and Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Mitten Weddings and Events / Meagan McPhail
Meagan McPhail founded Mitten Weddings and Events with a deep appreciation for Michigan’s unique charm. Her company is built on the principle of “Mitten” hospitality—a warm, approachable style of service that prioritizes the client experience above all else. She brings years of logistical expertise to the table, ensuring every event is not only beautiful but meticulously organized. Her approach is highly personal, treating every wedding as if it were for a close friend.
Specialty/niche: Mitten Weddings and Events specializes in creating authentic, stress-free celebrations that honor Michigan’s unique character. Meagan focuses on comprehensive wedding planning that embraces local charm, whether it’s a relaxed lakeside ceremony or a chic urban reception in Detroit. Her niche serves couples who want a deeply personal wedding without the overwhelming stress of managing details themselves.
Notable projects or signature style: Meagan’s work blends classic elegance with modern comfort. She excels at managing the complex logistics that come with Michigan’s diverse venues, ensuring outdoor events run smoothly despite unpredictable weather. Her portfolio features events that feel personal and intimate regardless of guest count. Her style incorporates soft, romantic aesthetics that complement the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Pricing: Mitten Weddings and Events offers custom packages tailored to each couple’s specific needs, so contact them directly through their website for a personalized quote.
Why we love them: We love Mitten Weddings and Events for their genuine passion for Michigan-based celebrations. Clients consistently describe the team as “fabulous” and “total pros,” noting that their warm, personable approach makes them feel like family. Reviews highlight their ability to execute a vision where “no detail goes unnoticed,” ensuring a stress-free experience. Meagan brings dedication that makes clients feel like they’re planning with a knowledgeable friend rather than just a service provider.
Connect with them: Follow Mitten Weddings and Events (@mittenweddings) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
2. Durpetti Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Durpetti Events / Michelle Durpetti
Michelle Durpetti is a powerhouse in the event industry, bringing an international perspective and deep hospitality background to her company. With a family history rooted in the restaurant business, Michelle understands the nuances of service and guest experience better than almost anyone. She has established herself as a leader in the luxury market, known for executing complex, high-stakes events with grace and precision. Her expertise extends beyond planning—she’s a producer who orchestrates every sensory detail.
Specialty/niche: Durpetti Events is synonymous with high-end, luxury wedding planning and production. Michelle specializes in events requiring sophisticated logistics and elevated design, catering to clientele that expects nothing less than perfection. She’s particularly adept at managing multi-day celebrations and destination weddings, bringing cosmopolitan flair to Michigan venues. Her team transforms raw spaces into immersive environments that transport guests.
Notable projects or signature style: Michelle’s signature style is defined by opulence, precision, and deep appreciation for culinary excellence. With her hospitality background, she places strong emphasis on guest experience, particularly food and beverage service. Her events are often grand in scale and rich in detail, featuring elaborate floral installations, custom lighting, and immersive entertainment. Durpetti Events manages production with the rigor of a theatrical performance.
Pricing: Pricing for Durpetti Events is bespoke and reflects the complexity and scale of each event. According to their website, their weddings typically range upwards of $1,500 per person. Get in touch with them directly for more information on their services and custom proposals.
Why we love them: We admire Durpetti Events for their unwavering commitment to luxury and logistical excellence. Client testimonials frequently describe Michelle as a “fierce mama bear” with exquisite taste who brings magic to life. Couples praise the team’s ability to handle complex logistics while maintaining a supportive, family-oriented dynamic. Michelle doesn’t just plan weddings—she produces experiences that leave lasting impressions.
Connect with them: Follow Durpetti Events (@mdurpettievents) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
3. Ryan Abney Event Design
Company name and founder/lead planner: Ryan Abney Event Design / Ryan Abney
Ryan Abney founded her eponymous firm with a vision to merge meticulous logistics with high-impact design. She believes the visual story of a wedding is just as important as the timeline. With a background emphasizing creativity and structure, Ryan has carved out a unique space in the Michigan market for couples who want weddings that truly reflect their personal style. She approaches each event as a blank canvas, working closely with clients to curate fresh, authentic experiences.
Specialty/niche: Ryan Abney Event Design focuses on the intersection of logistics and aesthetics, offering a design-forward approach to wedding planning. Ryan specializes in creating visually cohesive events that tell a story through color, texture, and thoughtful details. Her niche serves clients who value artistic expression and want their wedding to feel like a curated experience. She’s particularly skilled at working in non-traditional venues like industrial lofts and outdoor tented spaces.
Notable projects or signature style: Ryan’s signature style is modern, bold, and meticulously styled. She’s known for transforming blank canvases into sophisticated environments that surprise and delight guests. Her work features striking floral arrangements, custom tablescapes, and unique layout configurations encouraging guest interaction. She collaborates closely with creative vendors to ensure every element contributes to a unified design narrative. Her events feel intentional and polished.
Pricing: Ryan Abney Event Design creates custom proposals based on the scope and design requirements of your event. Contact the team directly via their website for pricing specifics and to discuss your vision.
Why we love them: We love Ryan Abney Event Design for the emphasis on visual storytelling. Reviewers describe Ryan as a “consummate professional” who goes above and beyond the call of duty. Clients specifically praise her exceptional organizational skills and consistent communication, noting that she is present every step of the way. Her ability to merge creative direction with logistical planning makes her ideal for couples who have a strong aesthetic vision but need a professional to execute it flawlessly.
Connect with them: Follow Ryan Abney Event Design (@raeventdesign) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
4. Affinity Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Affinity Events / Caitlin Wernet
Based in Grand Rapids, Caitlin Wernet founded Affinity Events with a mission to create meaningful connections through celebration. She views wedding planning as a relational art form, prioritizing the bond between the couple, their families, and the vendor team. Caitlin’s background in event management is complemented by deep roots in the West Michigan community, giving her an insider’s perspective on the best local resources. She approaches every event with a calm, organized demeanor that instantly puts clients at ease.
Specialty/niche: Affinity Events specializes in creating weddings that feel personal, grounded, and deeply connected to the local community. Caitlin serves West Michigan and beyond, focusing on couples who value authenticity over performative grandeur. Her niche involves a highly relational approach to planning, ensuring the vendor team and couple are perfectly aligned in values and vision. She excels at planning weddings in unique, non-traditional venues requiring a thoughtful touch.
Notable projects or signature style: Caitlin’s style is fresh, organized, and community-oriented. She has a knack for highlighting the best of West Michigan, utilizing local vendors to create events that feel authentic to the region. Her projects often feature clean lines, natural light, and joyful atmospheres. Affinity Events is particularly skilled at managing wedding day flow, ensuring transitions between ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception feel natural rather than rigid.
Pricing: According to their website, the Classic Package for wedding coordination starts at $1,500. The Luxe package starts at $8,500. Reach out via their contact page for specific package pricing and availability.
Why we love them: We love Affinity Events for their focus on relationship building. With a 100% recommendation rate on major review platforms, clients praise the team for creating “thoughtful, seamless, and beautifully executed events.” Testimonials highlight their timely communication and flexibility in accommodating specific needs. Caitlin Wernet understands that a great wedding is built on trust between the couple and their planner.
Connect with them: Follow Affinity Events (@affinityeventsgr) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
5. In the Details Weddings
Company name and founder/lead planner: In the Details Weddings / Emily Wentland
Emily Wentland founded In the Details Weddings with a clear mission: to bring order and calm to the often-chaotic world of wedding planning. Her background is defined by a passion for logistics and a keen eye for the small things that make a big difference. Emily understands that while the big picture is important, it’s the execution of details that determines guest experience. She has built her company to be a reliable support system, offering a structured yet flexible approach to planning.
Specialty/niche: As the name suggests, In the Details Weddings specializes in meticulous organization and execution. Emily focuses on the logistical backbone of events, ensuring every small element is accounted for. Her niche provides peace of mind to couples who may have handled broad strokes of planning but need a professional to tie up loose ends and manage day-of operations. She’s the go-to planner for couples wanting to enjoy their wedding without checking their watch.
Notable projects or signature style: Emily’s style is defined by precision and calm capability. She’s the planner who has the timeline memorized and the backup plan ready before you know there’s a problem. Her work highlights seamless transitions and well-orchestrated vendor interactions. Her true signature is the invisible work making an event feel effortless—the perfectly timed grand entrance, coordinated dinner service, and smooth management of guest movements.
Pricing: According to their official site, “Final Details” wedding packages start at $2,500. Higher-tier “Every Last Detail” packages start at $8,000. For a custom quote based on your specific needs, reach out through their website.
Why we love them: We love In the Details Weddings for their focus on the practicalities that make or break an event. Clients call hiring Emily and her team the “best investment” for a stress-free wedding day. Reviews consistently mention their industry knowledge and ability to make the planning process organized and efficient. Her dedication to ensuring nothing falls through the cracks allows couples to truly let go and enjoy their celebration.
Connect with them: Follow In the Details Weddings (@inthedetailsweddings) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
6. Elsilu Event Planning & Design
Company name and founder/lead planner: Elsilu Event Planning & Design / Heather Miller
Heather Miller founded Elsilu Event Planning & Design with a passion for creating events that are as seamless as they are stunning. Her background combines a strong foundation in logistics with a natural flair for design, allowing her to offer comprehensive service covering every aspect of the planning process. Heather believes a successful wedding is one where the couple feels completely at ease, knowing every detail has been handled with care. Her dedication has made her a trusted name in the Michigan wedding industry.
Specialty/niche: Elsilu Event Planning & Design offers a comprehensive approach merging logistical planning with creative design. Heather specializes in creating elegant, timeless weddings that feel effortless. Her niche serves couples wanting cohesive look and feel, ensuring design elements are beautiful and practical for the venue and guest count. She’s particularly skilled at navigating outdoor and tented wedding challenges where site management expertise is invaluable.
Notable projects or signature style: Heather’s signature style is classic and refined, featuring soft color palettes, lush florals, and sophisticated details. She excels at creating warm, inviting environments, prioritizing guest comfort alongside visual impact. Her projects involve seamless integration of venue natural features with curated decor, resulting in looks that feel organic to the space. Elsilu events are characterized by grace and order.
Pricing: Elsilu Event Planning & Design provides custom quotes based on specific event needs. For more information on their services and pricing, please contact them through their website.
Why we love them: We love Elsilu Event Planning & Design for their balanced approach to weddings. Clients describe the team as a “well-oiled machine” that handles every detail of the wedding weekend. Reviews consistently praise their “refined and elegant” design aesthetic, noting that they deliver the ultimate planning experience. Her ability to deliver on both aesthetic and logistical fronts makes her a valuable partner for any couple wanting to ensure their wedding day is as enjoyable as it is beautiful.
Connect with them: Follow Elsilu Event Planning & Design (@elsilueventplanning) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
Finding the right Michigan planner
With so many talented professionals available, choosing the right partner can feel overwhelming. However, asking the right questions can help you narrow down your options and find someone who truly understands your vision and the local landscape.
1. Test their knowledge of neighborhood logistics
Michigan is vast, and planning a wedding in downtown Detroit is entirely different from planning one in Traverse City or Grand Rapids. Don’t just ask if they know the area—test their knowledge. Ask specific questions:
- “What is the parking situation near [Venue Name] on a Saturday night?”
- “How do you handle guest transportation between the ceremony and reception in this specific area?”
- “Are there any noise ordinances in [Neighborhood] that we need to be aware of?”
A planner with real local experience will answer immediately and offer alternatives. Vague responses like “we’ll figure it out” are red flags. You want someone who knows that a Tigers game might snarl traffic in Detroit or that the Mackinac Bridge traffic can impact vendor arrival times.
2. Check how they navigate peak season conflicts
Michigan summers are glorious, but they’re also short and packed with events. Ask prospective planners: “How do you handle vendor availability during peak weekends like the Cherry Festival or major university football games?”
The right answer includes specific strategies: backup vendor lists, early booking timelines, and price negotiation tactics during high-demand periods. They should mention specific Michigan events by name without prompting. Follow up by asking to see an example of an event they planned during a busy weekend. Their past problem-solving reveals their real expertise in securing the best resources when everyone else is competing for them.
3. Evaluate their vendor network depth
The strength of a planner often lies in who they know. Ask: “Which caterers, florists, and rental companies do you work with regularly, and why?”
Strong planners will name 3-5 vendors per category and explain the relationship: “We’ve worked with [Vendor X] on 20+ events—they’re reliable for last-minute changes and offer our clients specific benefits.” Then ask: “What happens if they’re booked?” The depth of their backup list matters. You want a planner who has deep roots in the Michigan wedding industry, ensuring you have access to the best talent even if your first choice is unavailable.
4. Measure budget realism for this market
Share your budget range and ask: “What is realistic for a wedding in [City] with this budget?”
Good planners will be honest: “For a downtown Detroit venue, expect [range]. Here’s where we can save: utilizing Peerspace venues versus hotels, choosing off-peak days, or looking at emerging neighborhoods.” They should offer 2-3 cost tiers with concrete examples. A warning sign is a planner who promises everything without discussing tradeoffs. Ask them to show you two past events—one at your budget and one 50% higher. Their answer will reveal what they prioritize and whether it aligns with your values.
5. Assess their crisis management for city-specific challenges
Michigan weather is notorious for changing on a dime. Ask about backup plans: “What happens if a lake-effect storm hits or if there is a heat wave during our outdoor reception?”
Experienced Michigan planners have protocols ready: relationships with indoor backup venues, tent sidewalls on standby, and guest communication templates. Ask them to walk you through how they handled a weather crisis for a past client. Listen for specifics—did they have heaters ready? Did they move the cocktail hour inside seamlessly? Their answer should include vendor names, timeline decisions, and cost implications they managed. Generic “we’re flexible” responses indicate they haven’t stress-tested their process in Michigan’s real conditions.
Tips for planning an event in Michigan
Planning a wedding in Michigan is all about timing and understanding the unique rhythm of the state. Here’s what you need to know.
Factors to consider
- Weather patterns: Michigan experiences four distinct seasons. Late spring and early fall are beautiful but can be unpredictable. Summer is warm and humid, perfect for lakefront events, while winter offers a cozy, snowy backdrop. Always have a “Plan B” for outdoor venues. Check the National Weather Service Detroit forecast or National Weather Service Grand Rapids data for regional forecasts and historical weather data when selecting your date.
- Tourism peaks: Northern Michigan and lake towns fill up quickly from June through August. If you’re planning a wedding in Traverse City, Charlevoix, or Mackinac Island, book accommodations for guests at least a year in advance. The Traverse City Tourism lodging guide website offers helpful resources for lodging and local information.
- Traffic timing: Construction is practically a season in Michigan. Be aware of major road projects, especially on I-75 and I-94, which can significantly delay travel times for vendors and guests. Check Michigan Department of Transportation road updates for current road conditions and construction updates.
- Local events calendar: Check for major events like the Detroit Auto Show, ArtPrize in Grand Rapids, or university graduations, which can drive up hotel prices and limit venue availability. The Pure Michigan events calendar provides a comprehensive overview of festivals and happenings statewide.
Major events to avoid
When setting your date, be mindful of these major events that create capacity issues and premium pricing:
- North American International Auto Show (Detroit): Typically in January or September (dates vary), drawing huge crowds to the city.
- Tulip Time Festival (Holland): Early May, causing congestion and booked hotels in West Michigan.
- National Cherry Festival (Traverse City): Early July, making travel and lodging in the north extremely difficult.
- ArtPrize (Grand Rapids): Late September to early October, taking over the city and filling venues.
- University of Michigan / Michigan State Football Games: Home game weekends in Ann Arbor and East Lansing create massive traffic and hotel shortages.
Expert advice
Non-locals often underestimate travel time between Michigan cities or the impact of lake-effect weather. We recommend deferring to local planners who understand these nuances. They know that a “20-minute drive” can turn into an hour during a snow squall or construction season.
FAQs: wedding planning in Michigan
When should I hire a Michigan wedding planner?
We recommend hiring your planner at least 12 months in advance, especially if you’re targeting a summer date or a popular venue in Northern Michigan. Top planners often book up quickly for the prime May-October season.
How much does an event planner cost in Michigan?
Costs vary widely depending on scope of service, but you can typically expect to budget 15-20% of your overall event budget for a full-service planner. Partial planning or month-of coordination packages will be less, often ranging from flat fees to hourly rates.
Do I need a planner if my venue has a coordinator?
Yes. A venue coordinator works for the venue and handles logistics related to the property (lights, food, restrooms). An independent wedding planner works for you, handling your timeline, all your vendors, your design vision, and your personal logistics.
Why hire a local Michigan planner versus bringing someone from out of town?
Local planners have established relationships with regional vendors, which can save you money and stress. They also understand local regulations, traffic patterns, and weather quirks that an out-of-town planner might miss.
Great events start with standout spaces—and the people who bring them to life
Great experiences start with the right people and the right space. Michigan offers endless possibilities, from the urban energy of Detroit to the natural splendor of the Upper Peninsula. The expert planners on this list know how to harness that energy while ensuring every detail reflects your vision. By pairing their expertise with a unique Michigan wedding venue, you set the stage for a celebration that is truly your own.
If you have feedback on our list, our team would love to hear from you. Reach us anytime at [email protected] with suggestions, corrections, or additions.
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