Top 5 Wedding Planners in Arkansas
-
Editor & Publisher -
Client Services Leader
- April 29, 2026
- 18 min read
- Events
Source: Peerspace
Arkansas is quietly becoming one of the most exciting wedding destinations in the South. The rolling Ozark Mountains, the world-class art scene of Northwest Arkansas, the historic thermal springs and charming lakeside venues of Hot Springs—The Natural State offers a stunning canvas for couples who want their celebration to feel anything but cookie-cutter.
Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate chapel ceremony nestled in the woods or a grand reception at a contemporary art museum venue, Arkansas delivers a range of settings that rival destinations twice the price.
With so many talented wedding professionals calling this state home, couples benefit from a competitive landscape where planners bring their absolute best—deep local vendor networks, creative problem-solving, and genuine Southern hospitality that makes the planning process feel like a joy rather than a chore.
We’ve carefully vetted the five best wedding planners across the state, evaluating based on their ability to consistently deliver extraordinary celebrations backed by glowing reviews, their strong vendor relationships, and proven creative expertise.
How we curate our list
Finding the right wedding planner is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during your engagement. We take our recommendations seriously, which is why every planner on this list has been evaluated against criteria that actually matter to your experience.
Our selection criteria include:
- Client reviews across multiple platforms: We analyze feedback from couples on The Knot, WeddingWire, Google, Zola, and social media to ensure consistent satisfaction across every touchpoint.
- Industry recognition and awards: We look for planners with accolades from respected wedding publications and organizations, plus strong standing among fellow vendors who work alongside them regularly.
- Professional credentials and associations: Active membership in industry groups, ongoing education, verified business operations, and a portfolio that demonstrates range and creativity are all factors we weigh.
Best wedding planners in Arkansas
Here are the five standout wedding planning companies we recommend across Arkansas, spanning Northwest Arkansas, Hot Springs, and beyond.
1. With Great Love Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: With Great Love Events / Emily Wren
Specialty/niche: With Great Love focuses on experience-driven weddings in Northwest Arkansas, moving beyond the checklist to center the intentionality of the guest experience. The company also handles corporate events and non-profit gatherings, offering full-service event planning, wedding management coordination, and partial planning services.
Notable projects or signature style: Emily’s approach centers on what she calls “the architecture of the guest experience.” As a boutique event house, With Great Love intentionally limits their calendar to a select few clients each year—they never take on two weddings in one day and typically don’t book more than one wedding per weekend. Their portfolio includes celebrations at some of Northwest Arkansas’s most prestigious venues, including Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, The Momentary, Osage House, and Mildred B. Cooper Chapel. Emily’s insider knowledge of these venues means she can advise couples on what works best for each specific setting.
Pricing: Emily crafts custom packages for couples based on their unique needs. Contact the team directly through their website for a personalized quote based on your vision.
Why we love them: Clients consistently praise Emily’s responsiveness, dedication, and calming presence that creates a smooth, stress-free planning experience. Testimonials highlight her meticulous organization and ability to bring visions to life, with one client sharing, “Everything came together so beautifully. It was clear how much she cared about bringing my vision to life exactly as I imagined.” The vendor community’s respect is equally telling—florists and photographers who’ve partnered with her on multiple weddings note how deeply she connects with each couple’s unique story. Her work has been featured in Brides, Wedding Chicks, and Carats & Cake.
Connect with them: Follow them on @wgl_events on Instagram.
2. LuLu’s Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: LuLu’s Events / Amy Lusby
Specialty/niche: Amy and her dedicated team bring decades of combined experience to the table, ensuring every celebration is handled with the utmost care and precision. They are highly regarded across the state for their exceptional event design, vendor coordination, and flawless execution from start to finish. Whether you are organizing a massive corporate gala or a small family gathering, they have the skills to make it memorable. LuLu’s Events offers expertise in planning intimate marriage proposals, weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, bridal and baby showers, and more, with both full and partial planning as well as day-of coordination. Amy is skilled in coordinating events ranging from two to 30,000 attendees—there’s no event too big or too small for her fearless team, affectionately known as “The A-Team” (Amy, Alyssa, and Addison).
Notable projects or signature style: Amy’s deep roots in the Hot Springs community give her a distinct advantage, especially for destination couples unfamiliar with the area. Her quick thinking under pressure is legendary—when one couple had an outdoor rooftop reception planned but severe thunderstorms were forecast, Amy pivoted the entire setup and the wedding turned out beautifully despite the weather. That kind of adaptability defines the LuLu’s experience.
Pricing: LuLu’s Events creates custom pricing based on each couple’s desired level of planning support and other specifics. Get in touch through their website to request a tailored proposal.
Why we love them: Clients consistently praise Amy’s vendor connections, professionalism, and knowledge of Hot Springs, which is especially useful for out-of-state couples. The team actively relieves wedding-day anxiety, allowing couples to be fully present. One family planning a destination wedding from New Orleans found that Amy’s expertise made planning from eight hours away feel completely manageable. Testimonials highlight her passion-driven service, with one client noting, “I wholeheartedly recommend Lulu’s Events to anyone seeking a stress-free & truly magical event. Amy’s passion for her work shines through in every detail.”
Connect with them: Follow them on @lulus.events501 on Instagram.
3. Signature Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Signature Events / Randi Slick
Specialty/niche: Randi and her team of skilled coordinators offer the highest level of creative, personalized wedding and event planning services, partnering with only the finest, most reliable vendors in the industry. Her specialty is destination weddings—with more than 50% of her clients planning destination celebrations in Hot Springs, Randi knows how to make brides feel at ease every step of the way, according to a feature in Arkansas Bride magazine about her destination wedding expertise.
Notable projects or signature style: Randi has brought her talents to hundreds of Hot Springs celebrations and is a trusted resource for couples unfamiliar with the area. Her philosophy on the value of a local planner is straightforward: the biggest savings come from a planner who knows her market and can find the most cost-effective quality vendors to achieve your look within your budget. She’s been featured in Arkansas Bride, AY Magazine, and The Hot Springs Bride Guide.
Pricing: Reach out to Signature Events directly through their website for a custom quote and proposal tailored to your specific needs.
Why we love them: Clients describe Randi as the best decision they made while planning their wedding, consistently praising her proactive, anticipatory planning style. According to customer reviews, the team is “always one step ahead,” ensuring a stress-free experience with exceptional attention to detail. Out-of-town brides especially appreciate that she handles all the logistics—one client shared on The Knot, “They were always one step ahead, making sure all vendors were on schedule and all aspects of the wedding were covered. Their attention to detail was exceptional.”
Connect with them: Follow them on @randislick on Instagram.
4. KDT Brides & Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: KDT Brides & Events / Kasarah Tyson
Specialty/niche: KDT Brides provides an unparalleled level of personalized service and attention to detail, allowing them to fully understand the intricacies of what makes each relationship unique. They limit their bookings to ensure they can uphold their incredibly high standards of service. Kasarah is also happy to travel for weddings outside of Northwest Arkansas, with travel fees based on location and accommodations.
Notable projects or signature style: Kasarah’s creative instincts shine in her venue suggestions. For one couple who originally considered hosting their wedding in a local bookshop, she suggested the Onyx Coffee Lab headquarters when the guest list grew. This bold, outside-the-box choice was highlighted in a real wedding profile in Weddings in Arkansas. The stunning visual execution of this event caught the attention of major publications across the country, proving that non-traditional spaces can be transformed into breathtaking wedding venues. Her ability to seamlessly blend industrial architecture with romantic design elements truly set this celebration apart from the rest. In fact, the celebration was later selected for a bold, disco-themed feature on Junebug Weddings. Her dual role as both an independent planner and a venue professional gives her a unique perspective on what couples need and what venues require.
Pricing: Final month coordination starts at $2,200; partial planning starts at $3,500; and full-service planning starts at $5,800. They also offer $60 hourly design services. Get in touch through their website to learn more and request a quote tailored to your needs.
Why we love them: Kasarah understands the planning process from both sides of the venue equation. Clients consistently praise her honest, transparent communication and her ability to create a seamless, stress-free experience. Testimonials highlight her exceptional execution, with one client sharing, “I loved how Kasarah was always 100% honest and not afraid to tell [us the truth] — working with KDT Brides for our wedding was such a pleasure!”
Connect with them: Follow @kdtbrides on Instagram and @kdt.brides on TikTok.
5. Exquisite Events & Productions
Company name and founder/lead planner: Exquisite Events & Productions / Nicki Burke
Specialty/niche: EE&P covers weddings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, private events, reunions, festivals, promotional activations, fashion shows, photo shoots, and art/music showcases. They also offer artist relations management and booking services, representing a curated roster of talented musicians and performers available for private events, festivals, and public appearances.
Notable projects or signature style: EE&P collaborates with an extensive network of local, national, and international talent and vendors, and their deep roots in the entertainment industry provide clients with exclusive access to top-tier venues, performers, catering, florists, decorators, and more. This background means Nicki approaches weddings with a production mindset—thinking about lighting, sound, flow, and guest experience in ways that traditional planners might not.
Pricing: Wedding Planning Packages start at $3,200 and on-site coordination and event management starts at $900. Inquire directly through their website to learn more about your options and request a custom quote.
Why we love them: Clients consistently praise Nicki’s organization, professionalism, and warm presence, noting she is proactive and “on top of it ever since day one.” The team delivers a seamless, well-executed event experience that reduces stress for couples. Testimonials highlight this reliability, with one client sharing, “Nicki and the entire team at Exquisite Events truly helped my event come to life and made sure everything went according to plan.” Even fellow vendors rave about working with her, calling Nicki and her staff “top tier event coordinators,” as noted on The Knot.
Connect with them: Follow them on @exquisiteeventsandproductions on Instagram.
Finding the right Arkansas planner
With so many talented professionals in the state, choosing the right planner can feel overwhelming. These practical tips will help you narrow down your options and find the person who’s the best fit for your celebration.
1. Test their knowledge of Arkansas’s regional differences
Arkansas isn’t one market—it’s several. Northwest Arkansas (Bentonville, Fayetteville, Rogers) has a completely different vendor landscape and venue style than Hot Springs, Little Rock, or Eureka Springs. When interviewing planners, ask specific questions like: “Which caterers do you recommend for a 150-person reception in our area?” or “What’s the parking situation at this specific venue on a Saturday evening?” A planner with real local experience will answer immediately and offer alternatives. Vague responses suggest they haven’t actually managed events in that specific area.
2. Evaluate their vendor network depth
Ask: “Which florists, caterers, and rental companies do you work with regularly, and why?” Strong planners will name three to five vendors per category and explain the relationship. Then ask: “What happens if they’re booked?” The depth of their backup list matters. Request introduction calls with two or three key vendors. During those calls, gauge the vendor’s enthusiasm—do they light up mentioning this planner? That chemistry translates to better service and problem-solving on your wedding day.
3. Assess their crisis management for Arkansas weather
Arkansas weather is unpredictable. Summer storms can roll in fast, and spring tornado season is a real consideration for outdoor events. Ask about backup plans: “What happens if severe weather hits the week of our event?” Experienced Arkansas planners have protocols ready—relationships with indoor backup venues, vendor cancellation policies they’ve negotiated, and guest communication templates. Listen for specifics: Did they have tent sidewalls ready for wind? Climate-controlled spaces secured as backup? Their answer should include vendor names, timeline decisions, and cost implications they managed.
4. Review their portfolio for your specific region
Don’t just ask for their general portfolio—ask for events specifically in the area where you’re planning your wedding. Request three to five examples similar to yours in event type, size, budget range, and venue style. During portfolio review, ask: “What was the biggest challenge in executing this event?” Strong planners will cite Arkansas-specific obstacles—weather pivots, vendor scheduling during peak season, transportation logistics between ceremony and reception venues—and explain their solutions.
5. Measure budget realism for the Arkansas market
Share your budget range and ask: “What’s realistic for a wedding in our area with this budget?” Good planners will be honest about what’s achievable. They should offer two or three cost tiers with concrete examples and suggest where you can save—like choosing an off-peak day, exploring unique wedding venue options on platforms like Peerspace, or prioritizing certain elements over others. Warning sign: promising everything without discussing tradeoffs.
Planning a wedding in Arkansas
Wedding planning in Arkansas is all about timing. Here are the key factors to keep in mind as you plan your celebration.
Weather patterns and best seasons: Arkansas has four distinct seasons. Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are the most popular wedding months, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. Winter weddings can be charming but come with the risk of ice storms, especially in the Ozark region. Check seasonal climate data through historical climate data from the National Weather Service’s Little Rock office for historical weather patterns when choosing your date.
Peak season awareness: Wedding season in Arkansas runs roughly from April through October, with October being especially competitive. Book your planner and venue at least nine to 12 months in advance for peak dates. If you’re flexible on timing, consider a Friday or Sunday wedding—you’ll often get better vendor availability and pricing.
Marriage license logistics: The Arkansas marriage license fee is $60. There is no waiting period for applications where all applicants are 18 or older. You may obtain a license in any county in Arkansas, and use it to get married anywhere in the state. The marriage license must be returned to the issuing office for recordation within 60 days of issuance. Contact your local county clerk’s office to confirm current requirements before your big day. For couples planning a celebration in Northwest Arkansas, you can find detailed information through the Benton County Clerk’s marriage license portal. It is always best to double-check these details a few months in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises. If you are hosting your event in the Spa City area, be sure to review the Garland County Clerk’s marriage information page.
Major events to plan around: These events can affect hotel availability, traffic, and vendor schedules in their respective regions. Check the official Arkansas Tourism events calendar for updated dates and additional regional happenings.
- Bikes, Blues & BBQ motorcycle rally (Fayetteville/Rogers) — September 30 – October 3 in 2026. This massive event brings hundreds of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts to the region, significantly impacting hotel blocks, restaurant reservations, and catering availability across Northwest Arkansas.
- The Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival (Hot Springs) — October 9 – 17 in 2026. As the longest-running non-fiction film festival in North America, this prestigious event draws large international crowds that fill up downtown accommodations and boutique hotels very quickly.
- Razorback football home games (Fayetteville) — September through November. SEC football weekends completely transform the local hospitality landscape, making early venue booking absolutely essential and creating heavy traffic along the main highway corridors.
- War Eagle Craft Fair (Rogers/Hindsville) — October 15–18 in 2026. This beloved autumn tradition attracts craft lovers from across the country, creating heavy traffic on rural routes which could severely affect your vendors’ travel times.
- Riverfest (Little Rock) — May/June. This popular music and arts festival takes over the downtown river market area, meaning downtown weddings will require extra logistical planning for guest parking and vendor load-in.
- Experience Fayetteville events — These vibrant community gatherings close often down the downtown square, altering parking availability and transportation routes for any nearby event venues.
Transportation and logistics: Arkansas is a driving state. If your ceremony and reception are at different locations, factor in travel time and consider arranging guest transportation. In Northwest Arkansas, weekend traffic around Bentonville and Rogers can be heavier than expected due to the area’s rapid growth. For out-of-town guests flying in, flight information for Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) is essential for those traveling to the Bentonville and Fayetteville corridor. Providing this information on your wedding website can save your guests a lot of travel-related stress. If your loved ones are arriving centrally, you will want to share traveler resources for Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT), which serves as the state’s largest hub in Little Rock. Once your guests arrive, giving them local recommendations makes their trip even more memorable. The official Visit Hot Springs tourism website is a helpful resource for destination couples planning in the Spa City area.
FAQs: wedding planning in Arkansas
When should I hire an Arkansas wedding planner?
Hire your planner at least eight to 12 months before your wedding date, especially if you’re planning a peak-season celebration (April through October). Popular planners in Northwest Arkansas and Hot Springs book up quickly, so the earlier you start, the more options you’ll have.
How much does a wedding planner cost in Arkansas?
Costs vary widely depending on the level of service. Day-of coordination typically starts around $850–$2,200, while partial planning ranges from $3,500 and up, and full-service planning packages can start at $5,800 or higher. Most planners charge either a flat fee or a percentage of your overall wedding budget (typically 15–20%). Ask for detailed pricing breakdowns during your initial consultation.
Do I need a planner if my venue has a coordinator?
Yes—a venue coordinator and an independent wedding planner serve different roles. A venue coordinator focuses on the property itself (setup, teardown, facility rules), while your wedding planner manages your entire vision across all vendors, locations, and logistics. Think of the venue coordinator as managing the space and your planner as managing the experience.
Why hire a local Arkansas planner versus bringing someone from out of town?
Local planners have established vendor relationships, knowledge of regional regulations, and firsthand experience with area-specific challenges like weather patterns and traffic. They can often negotiate better rates with vendors they’ve worked with repeatedly, and they know which backup plans actually work when things don’t go as expected.
Great weddings start with the right planner and the perfect space
Arkansas offers an incredible canvas for weddings and the planners on this list know exactly how to make the most of it. Whether you’re drawn to the artistic energy of Northwest Arkansas, the historic charm of Hot Springs, or the natural beauty of the Ozarks, these professionals bring the local knowledge, vendor relationships, and creative vision to turn your wedding day into something truly unforgettable.
Pairing the right planner with the right space is the foundation of every great celebration. Find your perfect Arkansas wedding venue on Peerspace and start building the wedding you’ve been imagining.
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.
