Top 5 Wedding Planners in Des Moines
-
Editor & Publisher -
Client Services Leader
- March 30, 2026
- 19 min read
- Events
Source: Peerspace
Des Moines balances the historic charm of the East Village and the golden-domed grandeur of the Capitol with a modern, creative energy that pulses through the western suburbs. For couples planning a wedding here, the Des Moines wedding venue options are as diverse as the landscape—from industrial lofts downtown to sprawling estates in Waterbury.
The value of a top-tier wedding planner becomes undeniable in a market where venues book up 18 months in advance and weather patterns can shift in an hour. Having a seasoned expert by your side allows you to focus on the celebration rather than the logistics.
We’ve curated this list of the top wedding planners in Des Moines to connect you with professionals who combine local expertise with world-class design. Each planner brings something unique to the table, and we’re confident you’ll find the right match for your vision.
How we curate our list
Finding the right professional to trust with your wedding day is a significant decision. We’ve developed a rigorous selection process to ensure that every planner featured on this list represents the highest standard of service in the Des Moines area.
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 and professionalism.
- Industry recognition and awards: We look for planners who are respected by their peers and the broader event community, often evidenced by features in publications or local awards.
- Professional credentials and associations: We value dedication to the craft through ongoing education, verified business operations, and active membership in professional industry groups.
Best wedding planners in Des Moines
1. Mostly Becky
Company name and founder/lead planner: Mostly Becky / Becky Thomas
Becky Thomas has built a reputation as the planner who feels like your most organized friend. With a background emphasizing personal connection and stress reduction, she established Mostly Becky to bridge the gap between high-end professional planning and the comfort of a close relationship. Her approach is rooted in the belief that planning should be as enjoyable as the wedding day itself. She has expanded her team to serve diverse clients across the Midwest while maintaining a hands-on, approachable leadership style.
Specialty/niche: Mostly Becky specializes in comprehensive wedding management that feels personal and grounded. Their niche is reducing the overwhelming nature of wedding logistics for couples who want to enjoy the fun parts of planning but need an expert to handle stress, timelines, and vendor coordination. They excel at “organized joy,” serving clients who value seamless flow and happy guests over rigid formalities.
Notable projects or signature style: The signature style of Mostly Becky is characterized by seamless logistics that go unnoticed by guests—the hallmark of true expertise. Their portfolio showcases weddings where complex challenges are handled without the couple ever seeing the sweat. Their aesthetic is flexible and client-focused, ranging from elaborate floral installations to minimalist modern decor, always reflecting the couple’s unique personality.
Pricing: Mostly Becky offers custom quotes based on specific needs. As investments vary based on guest count, location, and logistical complexity, it’s best to reach out through their website to receive a pricing estimate.
Why we love them: Becky Thomas prioritizes the emotional well-being of the couple just as much as the logistical success of the event. Clients consistently praise her as a “great listener” who makes the process entirely stress-free. Her team’s “we’re here for it” attitude means they tackle everything with a smile, and reviewers highlight their ability to handle unexpected challenges seamlessly.
Connect with them: Follow Mostly Becky on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
2. White Willow Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: White Willow Events / Taylor Boesen
Taylor Boesen founded White Willow Events with a vision to streamline the luxury wedding experience. Recognizing that the disconnect between planning and design often causes friction, she built a premier boutique firm that houses both logistical coordination and high-end floral design under one roof. Taylor’s background combines meticulous organizational skills with a refined artistic eye, allowing her to execute complex events that are as operationally sound as they are visually stunning.
Specialty/niche: White Willow Events occupies the “one-stop-shop” niche for luxury weddings, specializing in styling, floral design, and full-service coordination. They excel at creating cohesive, aesthetically driven events where the floral elements and overall event design are perfectly synchronized. This integrated approach appeals to couples who want a unified artistic vision without coordinating between separate vendors.
Notable projects or signature style: Taylor and her team are renowned for a style that is timeless, romantic, and incredibly detailed. Their projects often feature lush, abundant florals paired with sophisticated table settings and lighting. A signature White Willow event feels curated and high-end, often featuring dramatic ceiling architecture altered through hanging floral installations.
Pricing: White Willow Events creates custom proposals based on the scope of design and planning required. Reach out to them directly for a quote.
Why we love them: Taylor Boesen has removed one of the biggest friction points in wedding planning by housing both floral design and logistical planning talents within one team. Reviewers frequently cite the team’s “calm, professional demeanor” and “flawless execution” as key reasons they were able to enjoy their day. Clients consistently praise their ability to transform vague ideas into polished, magazine-worthy realities.
Connect with them: Follow White Willow Events on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
3. Midwest Meets Design
Company name and founder/lead planner: Midwest Meets Design / Aubrey Secrest
Aubrey Secrest founded Midwest Meets Design to challenge the status quo of the Midwestern wedding aesthetic. With a background deeply rooted in design principles, she approaches event planning as a creative discipline rather than just a logistical checklist. Aubrey specializes in working with modern, style-conscious couples who view their wedding as an expression of their personal brand and taste.
Specialty/niche: Midwest Meets Design focuses on experience-driven events that prioritize aesthetic storytelling. Their niche is “design-forward planning,” meaning every logistical decision is made through the lens of how it impacts the visual and experiential outcome. They are particularly adept at serving couples who want to steer away from stereotypical rustic looks, leaning instead toward modern minimalism, eclectic chic, or architectural elegance.
Notable projects or signature style: The signature style of Midwest Meets Design is contemporary, clean, and artful. Aubrey’s work often features sophisticated play with negative space, bold typography on signage, and architectural floral arrangements that serve as art pieces. The events feel highly curated, with every napkin fold, chair selection, and lighting cue intentional.
Pricing: Pricing for Midwest Meets Design is customized based on the scale and design complexity of the event. Get in touch with them through their website for a tailored quote.
Why we love them: Aubrey Secrest brings a refreshing, modern perspective to the Des Moines wedding scene. She approaches planning as an art form, ensuring that the “vibe” of the event is just as important as the schedule. Testimonials highlight the team’s “kindness and passion,” with clients noting that their “unique and intricate” designs create a genuine “WOW” factor.
Connect with them: Follow Midwest Meets Design on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
4. Elizabeth Bliss Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Elizabeth Bliss Events / Lauren Gardner
Lauren Gardner established Elizabeth Bliss Events to bring polished elegance and traditional hospitality to the Des Moines wedding market. With a deep appreciation for etiquette and seamless execution, Lauren serves as a steady hand for couples navigating the complexities of wedding planning. Her background emphasizes the importance of the guest experience, ensuring that every attendee feels welcomed and cared for.
Specialty/niche: Elizabeth Bliss Events specializes in creating elegant, timeless weddings with a focus on seamless execution and traditional grace. Lauren’s niche is the classic, romantic wedding that never goes out of style. She serves couples who value a sophisticated guest experience that feels effortless, whether it’s a grand church ceremony followed by a country club reception or an intimate garden affair.
Notable projects or signature style: The hallmark of an Elizabeth Bliss event is understated luxury. Lauren’s work often features soft color palettes, abundant candlelight, and classic design elements that stand the test of time. Her portfolio showcases weddings where the focus remains firmly on the connection between the couple and their loved ones, facilitated by a timeline that flows naturally.
Pricing: Elizabeth Bliss Events offers custom packages tailored to each couple’s specific needs. Full-service wedding planning packages start at $4,500; planning/design starts at $3,500; and day-of coordination starts at $2,800.
Why we love them: Lauren Gardner brings a sense of calm and composure to the planning process. In a world of fleeting trends, Elizabeth Bliss Events champions the beauty of tradition and the importance of flawless hospitality. Clients describe Lauren as having a “calm, positive presence” and note that she is “one of the hardest workers” they have met, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
Connect with them: Follow Elizabeth Bliss Events on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
5. Out of Box Productions
Company name and founder/lead planner: Out of Box Productions / Anthony Marinaro
Out of Box Productions offers a unique hybrid of wedding planning and entertainment production, founded by Anthony Marinaro. With a background firmly rooted in entertainment, Anthony approaches weddings not just as ceremonies but as live productions where the guest experience is paramount. His company specializes in high-energy events that prioritize fun, engagement, and atmosphere.
Specialty/niche: Their niche is the “party” aspect of the wedding—ensuring that the atmosphere is electric and guests are entertained every second of the night. Out of Box Productions excels at creating high-energy, entertainment-focused weddings where the guest experience is the top priority. They’re the go-to experts for couples who want to break away from strict formality and create a vibrant, celebratory environment.
Notable projects or signature style: As the name suggests, the style here is creative and unconventional. Their events are characterized by dynamic lighting design, perfectly timed musical cues, and room layouts that encourage interaction. The vibe is celebratory, vibrant, and bold—they’re not afraid to break traditional wedding rules if it means creating a more memorable experience.
Pricing: Out of Box Productions offers personalized pricing based on the complexity of the event production and planning services required. Reach out through their website for a custom quote based on your vision.
Why we love them: Anthony Marinaro brings infectious energy to the industry. Out of Box Productions understands that a wedding is, at its core, a celebration. Their dual focus on planning and production allows them to control the atmosphere in ways traditional planners might not achieve. Customer reviews emphasize their “exceptional professionalism” and ability to “take away all the stress,” ensuring the event runs smoothly while guests have a fantastic time.
Connect with them: Follow Out of Box Productions on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
Finding the right Des Moines planner
With such a talented pool of professionals in the Des Moines area, narrowing down your choice can feel overwhelming. The goal is not just to find a “good” planner, but to find the one whose working style and expertise align perfectly with your specific needs. Here are practical tips to help you evaluate your options.
1. Test their knowledge of local logistics
Des Moines has specific logistical quirks that a seasoned planner should know inside and out. Don’t just ask if they have worked in the city; ask specific questions to test their depth of knowledge.
Ask prospective planners:
- “How do you handle guest transportation between downtown hotels and venues in West Des Moines during rush hour?”
- “What is the parking situation like for vendors at [your potential venue]?”
- “Which local noise ordinances do we need to be aware of if we are planning an outdoor reception in a residential area?”
A planner with real local experience will answer these immediately and offer alternatives. If they give vague responses like “we will figure it out,” it may be a red flag. You want someone who knows that the construction on I-235 might impact your shuttle times or that certain downtown lofts have strict load-in times for caterers.
2. Check how they navigate peak season conflicts
Des Moines hosts several major events that can monopolize hotel blocks and vendor availability. The Iowa State Fair is the largest event in Iowa and draws over a million visitors. Other events like the Downtown Farmers’ Market or large conventions can also impact logistics.
Ask prospective planners:
- “How do you handle vendor availability if our date overlaps with the State Fair or a major university game day?”
- “Do you have strategies for securing hotel blocks when the city is at capacity?”
The right answer includes specific strategies: backup vendor lists, early booking timelines, and negotiation tactics during high-demand periods. They should mention specific Des Moines events by name without you prompting them. Their past problem-solving reveals their real expertise in the local market.
3. Measure budget realism for this market
While Des Moines is generally more affordable than coastal cities, “affordable” is relative, and costs for premium services have risen. You need a planner who is honest about what your budget can achieve in the current local economy.
Share your budget range and ask:
- “What is realistic for a guest count of [Number] in Des Moines with this budget?”
- “Can you show me two past events—one at our budget and one 50% higher? What did the extra money buy?”
Good planners will be honest. They might say, “For a downtown luxury hotel, expect to spend [Range]. Here is where we can save: booking a unique book-by-the-hour wedding venue instead of a traditional banquet hall, or choosing a Friday date.” Their answer reveals whether they respect your financial boundaries or if they’ll constantly push you to overspend.
4. Assess their crisis management for weather
In Des Moines, the summers are warm, humid, and wet; the winters are freezing, snowy, and windy. A planner’s ability to pivot based on the forecast is non-negotiable.
Ask about backup plans:
- “What happens if a severe thunderstorm warning hits two hours before our ceremony?”
- “Can you walk me through a time you had to enact a ‘Plan B’ for a Des Moines wedding due to weather?”
Listen for specifics. Did they have tent sidewalls on standby? Did they know exactly which indoor space at the venue could be flipped in under an hour? Their answer should include vendor names (like tent rental companies they trust for last-minute calls) and timeline decisions. Generic “we are flexible” responses indicate they haven’t stress-tested their process in Iowa’s real conditions.
5. Confirm communication style fits the pace
The pace of planning in Des Moines can vary. Some vendors operate on a relaxed timeline, while others book 18 months out. You need a planner whose communication style matches your anxiety levels and the market’s demands.
Ask:
- “What is your typical response time?”
- “How do you prefer to communicate—text, email, or scheduled calls?”
Test this during your selection process. Note how quickly they respond to your inquiries. In a market where top venues book quickly, you need a planner who can act fast when a hold is about to expire but also knows when to loop you in. Request a sample timeline from a past event showing their communication cadence—it previews your future experience.
Planning a wedding in Des Moines
Planning a wedding is all about timing and location. Des Moines offers a fantastic quality of life and event experience, but being aware of the local landscape will save you headaches down the road.
Factors to consider:
- Weather patterns: The most popular months for weddings in Des Moines are May, June, September, and October. Summer, from June to August, is hot and sunny, although thunderstorms can break out in the afternoon. If you choose a summer date, indoor venues with strong air conditioning are a must. Winter weddings can be magical and cost-effective, but you must account for potential snowstorms impacting guest travel. Check Catch Des Moines seasonal weather guide for seasonal averages.
- Tourism peaks: The Iowa State Fair runs for approximately two weeks in August each year. Traffic increases significantly, and hotel availability plummets. Unless you are incorporating the fair into your theme, it is often best to avoid these dates. Check the daily Iowa State Fair entertainment schedule for specific dates.
- Traffic timing: While Des Moines traffic is mild compared to Chicago or Minneapolis, rush hour (7:30-8:30 AM and 4:30-5:30 PM) can still cause delays, especially on I-235 and I-35/80. Plan your ceremony start time accordingly.
- Construction projects: Downtown Des Moines and the surrounding suburbs are often undergoing road improvements during the non-winter months. Check local resources for major road closures that might affect the route between your ceremony and reception.
- Neighborhood differences:
- Downtown/East Village: Urban, historic, walkable, close to hotels. Parking can be paid or metered.
- West Des Moines: Suburban, modern, ample free parking, larger hotel chains.
- Waterbury/Ingersoll: Historic charm, boutique vibes, older established venues.
Major events to avoid:
When setting your date, cross-reference these major annual events which can strain city resources and drive up accommodation costs. Visit the comprehensive Catch Des Moines events calendar for a comprehensive list of upcoming events:
- Iowa State Fair: Mid-August (11 days)
- Drake Relays: Late April (impacts university area and hotels)
- IMT Des Moines Marathon: October (street closures)
- 80/35 Music Festival: July (downtown congestion)
- World Food & Music Festival: Late summer (downtown congestion)
Marriage license requirements:
Marriages in Iowa are between two people who are (1) 18 years of age and older; (2) not already or still legally married to someone else or each other; (3) not closely related by blood or first cousins; and (4) legally competent to enter into a civil contract. The Polk County marriage license fee is $35, with a three-day waiting period required. Visit the Polk County Recorder’s Office website for complete requirements and to download the application.
Expert advice:
If you’re not a local, you might miss nuances like the convenience of the downtown Skywalk system in winter or the specific noise ordinances of the Waterbury neighborhood. We strongly recommend deferring to local planners who understand these details. They can save you from booking a venue that looks great online but is located right next to a construction zone.
FAQs: Des Moines wedding planning
When should I hire a Des Moines wedding planner?
We recommend hiring your planner at least nine to 12 months in advance. Popular dates in September and October can book up even earlier. If you’re planning a short-engagement wedding (less than six months), a planner is even more critical to secure remaining vendors quickly.
How much does an event planner cost in Des Moines?
Costs vary widely based on experience and service level. Generally, you can expect to pay between 10% and 20% of your overall wedding budget for full-service planning. For “month-of” coordination or management, flat fees typically range from $1,500 to $3,500 depending on the complexity of the event. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of what is included.
Do I need a planner if my venue has a coordinator?
Yes, usually. A venue coordinator works for the venue; their job is to ensure the lights work, the food is served (if in-house), and the building doesn’t burn down. An independent wedding planner works for you. They manage your timeline, your photographer, your florist, your family dynamics, and your personal stress. They’re there from the morning setup until the last vendor leaves.
Why hire a local Des Moines planner versus bringing someone from out of town?
Local knowledge is invaluable. A local planner knows which florist is reliable, which caterer has the best service staff, and exactly how long it takes to get from the Capitol building to the reception venue on a Friday afternoon. They have established relationships that can lead to discounts or perks that an out-of-town planner simply won’t have access to.
Great events start with standout spaces—and the people who bring them to life
Creating a memorable wedding in Des Moines is about harmonizing the right people with the right environment. The city offers endless possibilities, from the historic charm of the East Village to the modern elegance of the western suburbs. The expert planners listed above possess the local knowledge and creative vision to harness this energy, ensuring that every detail reflects your unique story. When you pair a visionary planner with a distinctive venue, you create the conditions for magic to happen.
Whether you’re looking for a raw industrial loft, a sun-drenched studio, or a historic home for your intimate reception, finding the perfect location is the first step in your journey. We invite you to browse unique wedding venues in Des Moines to start visualizing your perfect day.
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.
