Top 5 Event Planners in Austin
-
Editor & Publisher -
Client Services Leader
- May 2, 2026
- 17 min read
- Events
Source: Peerspace
Austin is a city that knows how to celebrate. Hill Country vineyard weddings, rooftop corporate gatherings overlooking Lady Bird Lake, creative pop-ups along South Congress—the Live Music Capital of the World brings a laid-back energy to every event it hosts. Neighborhoods like East Austin, Rainey Street, and the Mueller district each offer their own distinct vibe, and the city’s booming growth means there’s no shortage of stunning venues and talented vendors to bring your vision to life.
With so many skilled event planners calling Austin home, you’ll find professionals who specialize in everything from intimate elopements to large-scale productions. Each brings deep local knowledge of Austin’s unique logistics. The best Austin planners know which caterers thrive in Texas heat, which event venues offer the best sunset views, and how to keep your event running smoothly when I-35 has other plans.
Below are five carefully vetted event planning companies that have earned their reputations through consistently excellent work, glowing client reviews, and genuine expertise in the Austin market. Whether you’re planning a wedding, a corporate retreat, or a milestone celebration, these planners can help you create something truly unforgettable.
How we curate our list
Finding the right event planner is a big decision, and we take our recommendations seriously. Our selection process evaluates each company across several key criteria to ensure we’re only highlighting planners who consistently deliver exceptional experiences.
Our selection criteria include:
- Client reviews across multiple platforms: We analyze feedback on Google, The Knot, WeddingWire, Zola, and social media to get a well-rounded picture of each planner’s reputation and consistency.
- Industry recognition and awards: Accolades from professional organizations, media features, and peer recognition all factor into our evaluation.
- Professional credentials and associations: Certifications, memberships in industry organizations, and ongoing professional development demonstrate commitment to the craft.
- Portfolio quality and diversity: We review actual events to assess creativity, attention to detail, and range of capabilities across different event types and styles.
- Strong online presence: Active social media accounts and up-to-date websites signal a planner who is engaged, current, and proud of their work.
Every planner on this list meets high standards for professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail. We regularly revisit and update our recommendations to keep them accurate and genuinely useful for you.
Best event planners in Austin
These five Austin-based event planning companies stood out for their creativity, client care, and deep knowledge of the local market. Here’s what makes each one worth your attention.
1. Simply XO Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Simply XO Events / Jordyn Zanin & Alexis Parmentier
Specialty/niche: Simply XO Events is an Austin-based wedding and event planning business that services couples all over Texas, with a primary focus on the Central Texas region. They offer purposeful, personalized wedding planning—everything from month-of coordination to full wedding planning. What makes them stand out is their two-planner model: every package includes two wedding planners, adopting the philosophy that two is better than one.
Notable projects or signature style: Jordyn and Alexis officially launched Simply XO Events in 2018 after both having been brides in the Austin area and seeing a gap in the local wedding market. Jordyn brings corporate event planning experience while Alexis comes from wedding and social events, creating a complementary partnership. They’ve been featured on KXAN’s Studio 512 segment on stylish weddings, bringing tips and inspiration to a wider Austin audience.
Pricing: Simply XO Events offers three service tiers: the coordinator, the coordinator + design, and the planner. Contact them through their website for custom proposals based on your needs.
Why we love them: Their brand focuses on approachability and accessibility—two backbone principles of their success. The two-coordinators-for-the-price-of-one model means you always feel supported. Clients consistently praise the team for delivering a stress-free, dream-fulfilling experience. Testimonials highlight their highly professional, thorough step-by-step guidance and note that they are “incredibly responsive” throughout the planning process. Their day-of coordination is also frequently celebrated for ensuring seamless execution.
Connect with them: Follow their work on @simplyxoevents on Instagram and @simplyxoevents on TikTok.
2. Lotus Events TX
Company name and founder/lead planner: Lotus Events TX / Tara Manuppelli
Specialty/niche: Lotus Events specializes in wedding and event planning with over 10 years of experience, serving the great state of Texas and traveling nationwide. The company is passionate about providing a fun, memorable, and stress-free planning experience. They offer services for weddings, social, and benefit events, with their most popular package providing support throughout the month before your wedding and on the day itself.
Notable projects or signature style: Before starting her company, Tara was a venue manager for several years, handling venue sales, account management, and assisting caterers with events. She launched Lotus Events in June 2018 and holds a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from The University of Texas at San Antonio’s School of Architecture. Her clients have celebrated at iconic Austin venues like Woodbine Mansion, Camp Lucy, and Laguna Gloria. She’s been featured in Magnolia Rouge, Brides of Austin, and Voyage Austin.
Pricing: Wedding-day coordination starts at $4,800. Partial planning—their most popular package—starts at $8,200. Submit an inquiry through their website to connect with the team and request a custom quote.
Why we love them: Tara is a six-time The Knot Best of Weddings winner and a Hall of Fame inductee. With dozens of glowing reviews across every platform and a welcoming approach, Tara has earned a reputation as one of Austin’s most reliable planners. Clients consistently praise her exceptional execution, frequently describing their events as “seamless” and “perfect.” Testimonials highlight her strong vendor relationships—even accompanying clients to vendor meetings—and her warm, approachable demeanor that puts everyone at ease. Her highly detail-oriented planning process ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
Connect with them: Follow their work on @lotuseventstx on Instagram.
3. Amusé Event Co.
Company name and founder/lead planner: Amusé Event Co. / Victoria Tawney
Specialty/niche: At Amusé Event Co., the team believes in crafting weddings that are effortless, deeply personal, and a true reflection of you. Their process blends intentional, curated design with stress-free logistics so you can enjoy planning every step of the way. They serve couples in both Austin, Texas, and Grand Rapids, Michigan, making them especially valuable for couples with connections across the country.
Notable projects or signature style: Amusé offers a personalized wedding planning experience with two dedicated planners—Hannah, who handles design with an eye for aesthetics, and Victoria, who manages logistics to ensure a smooth, stress-free day. All of their packages include wedding design, so you’ll never have to worry about the visual details falling through the cracks.
Pricing: Packages start at $5,000 and increase from there. Reach out to the company directly through their website for a custom quote.
Why we love them: The dual-planner structure means you get a dedicated logistics expert and a dedicated designer working in tandem on your event. Their coast-to-coast vendor network is especially valuable for couples planning destination weddings or multi-city celebrations. According to customer reviews, clients consistently praise their strong client-centered approach, noting that the team prioritizes the couple’s vision above all else. Testimonials highlight their meticulous attention to detail and highly regarded vendor network, with one client explicitly calling them the best planning team they could ask for.
Connect with them: Follow their work on @amuseeventco on Instagram.
4. LennsFest Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: LennsFest Events / Katie Lenns
Specialty/niche: Based in Austin, Texas, LennsFest Events is a full-service event planning and production company that provides quality sporting, corporate, and social events. Their team meticulously plans every aspect so you can relax and enjoy every moment. What sets Katie apart is her rare combination of sports industry production experience and wedding planning expertise—a background that makes her exceptionally skilled at managing complex, high-pressure events.
Notable projects or signature style: With over 13 years of experience in sports and entertainment, Katie moved to Austin in 2016 and founded LennsFest Events. Her background includes work with the Washington Nationals, ShopRite LPGA Classic, Disson Sports & Entertainment, and the Legg Mason Tennis Classic. She graduated with honors from Georgetown University with Bachelor of Science degrees in Marketing and Management and holds a Master’s degree in Sports Industry Management. She’s produced events ranging from weddings and high-profile parties to professional sports tournaments.
Pricing: Full-service wedding planning services start at $6,000. LennsFest Events customizes every service, providing different levels of assistance depending on your needs. Contact Katie through her website for a custom quote.
Why we love them: Katie personally manages every wedding that hires LennsFest Events and goes the extra mile—she’s re-installed floral arrangements mid-air after a florist left and tracked down a missing officiant in a foreign country. She’s a recognized award-winning Best of Zola vendor and has served as a Showcasing Event Chair for the Catersource/The Special Event conference. Clients consistently praise the team’s seamless, well-coordinated event execution and warm, friendly demeanor. Testimonials highlight that their communication is “helpful, clear, and easy to understand,” and while their pricing reflects a premium service, reviewers universally agree the exceptional value fully justifies the cost.
Connect with them: Follow their work on @lennsfestevents on Instagram.
5. Next Chapter Weddings
Company name and founder/lead planner: Next Chapter Weddings / Brandi Swanson
Specialty/niche: Next Chapter Weddings is a Houston-based wedding planning company focused on intentional planning and design for couples who want to be fully present on their big day. The company serves Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and beyond, offering full and partial wedding planning, design, coordination, décor, and event staffing. Brandi’s approach centers on creating celebrations that feel deeply personal rather than trend-driven.
Notable projects or signature style: Brandi believes your wedding day should feel like more than a whirlwind of to-do lists and timelines—it should be a day you can truly feel. Her style blends timeless elegance with grounded faith and heart. The team includes dedicated coordinators like Sierra Harralson, who serves Hill Country clients, and Landry Warren, who oversees the company’s in-house décor to ensure every detail is thoughtfully curated.
Pricing: 45-day coordination starts at $1,500 and 90-day coordination starts at $2,200. Partial wedding planning starts at $3,400. Full-service wedding planning starts at $6,000. They also offer a variety of add-on services including floral collections, hotel room blocks, and bachelorette party planning. Contact Next Chapter Weddings directly for a custom quote.
Why we love them: Brandi is an ordained wedding officiant and serves on the board for the Association of Wedding Planners—Houston. She holds a degree in business and is a certified wedding planner through the Wedding Planner Society. She founded Next Chapter Weddings in 2018 and has earned recognition as a Best of Zola vendor from 2023 through 2026. According to customer reviews, clients consistently praise the team’s “effective, clear, and confident” communication. Testimonials highlight Brandi by name for her standout service, noting that her philosophy of making planning “intentional and joyful” truly resonates and allows couples to be fully present on their big day.
Connect with them: Follow their work on @next_chapter_weddings on Instagram and on @next_chapter_weddings on TikTok.
Finding the right Austin event planner
With so many talented professionals in Austin, narrowing down your options can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to evaluate planners and find the one who’s the best fit for your event.
1. Check how they navigate peak season conflicts
Austin’s event calendar is packed with major festivals and conventions that can dramatically affect vendor availability and pricing. Ask prospective planners: “How do you handle vendor availability during SXSW?” or “What’s your strategy for booking during ACL Fest weekend?”
The right answer includes specific strategies—backup vendor lists, early booking timelines, and price negotiation tactics during high-demand periods. They should mention Austin’s specific events by name (SXSW, ACL, Formula 1, UT football weekends) without you prompting them. Follow up with: “Can you show me an example of an event you planned the same weekend as a major festival?” Their past problem-solving reveals their real expertise.
2. Evaluate their vendor network depth
Ask: “Which caterers, florists, 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. Ask for 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, priority scheduling, and problem-solving on your event day.
3. Test their knowledge of Austin neighborhood logistics
Don’t just ask if they know Austin—test their knowledge. Ask specific questions like: “What’s the parking situation in East Austin on a Saturday evening?” or “Which neighborhoods have noise ordinances that could affect our reception?” or “What’s the backup plan if there’s traffic on I-35 during rush hour?”
A planner with real local experience will answer immediately and offer alternatives. Vague responses like “we’ll figure it out” are red flags. Ask them to walk you through how they’d handle guest transportation between downtown and a Hill Country venue—their answer reveals whether they’ve actually managed events across Austin or are just listing it on their website.
4. Review their portfolio for Austin specifically
Don’t just ask for their portfolio—ask for events specifically in Austin or the neighborhoods relevant to your event. Request three to five examples similar to yours in event type and size, budget range, and venue style.
During portfolio review, ask: “What was the biggest challenge in executing this event?” Strong planners will cite Austin-specific obstacles—weather backup plans for outdoor Hill Country weddings, vendor scheduling during SXSW, parking logistics downtown—and explain solutions. Follow up by asking: “May I contact this client?” Real references reveal whether the planner’s expertise made a tangible difference.
5. Measure budget realism for the Austin market
Share your budget range and ask: “What’s realistic for my event type in Austin 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 or exploring unique event venues in Austin neighborhoods like East Austin or the Mueller district. Warning sign: promising everything without discussing tradeoffs.
Tips for planning an event in Austin
Event planning in Austin is all about timing. The city’s climate, cultural calendar, and rapid growth all play a role in how smoothly your event comes together.
Weather patterns: Austin’s best months for outdoor events are typically March through May and October through November. Summers are brutally hot—regularly exceeding 100°F—so if you’re planning a June through August event, indoor or climate-controlled venues are essential. Spring can bring unpredictable rain, so always have a weather backup plan. The National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio regional forecast office tracks increasing potential for localized flooding and other severe weather events throughout the region, making it a valuable resource for monitoring conditions as your event date approaches.
Tourism peaks and major events to plan around: Austin hosts several massive events that strain hotel availability, drive up vendor pricing, and create significant traffic congestion. Plan around these if possible:
- SXSW (March)—the city’s biggest annual event
- Austin City Limits Music Festival (October, two weekends)
- Formula 1 US Grand Prix (October)
- UT Longhorns football home games (September–November)
- Austin Trail of Lights (December)
- ROT Rally (June)
- Austin Food & Wine Festival (spring)
Check the official City of Austin special events calendar for the latest updates on major events and street closures. Visit Austin, the city’s official tourism organization, also offers trip planning resources that can help you coordinate guest accommodations and activities around your event.
Traffic and transportation: Austin’s traffic has grown significantly with the city’s population boom. I-35 through downtown is notoriously congested, especially during rush hours (7–9 AM and 4–7 PM). If your event is downtown, consider providing rideshare codes or shuttle service for guests. CapMetro public transit system has served as the public transportation provider to the Central Texas region for almost 40 years, offering bus and rail options that can supplement your guest transportation plan. Neighborhoods like South Congress, Rainey Street, and East Austin each have their own parking challenges—your planner should know these inside and out. For out-of-town guests flying in, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is one of the fastest-growing airports in the United States and is located just minutes from downtown.
Event permits: Depending on your event type and location, you may need permits from the City of Austin for noise, alcohol service, or temporary structures. Processing times vary, so start early. A local planner will know exactly which permits you need and the timeline for securing them.
Marriage licenses: If you’re planning a wedding in Austin, both parties must appear together at the county clerk’s office to apply. There is a required three-day waiting period between the time a marriage license is obtained and the ceremony. Visit the Travis County Clerk’s marriage license information page for the full list of requirements, fees, and acceptable identification.
FAQs: event planning in Austin
When should I hire an Austin event planner?
Aim to hire your planner at least six to 12 months before your event, especially if you’re planning during peak season (spring or fall) or around major Austin events like SXSW or ACL. Popular planners book up quickly, so the earlier you start, the more options you’ll have.
How much does an event planner cost in Austin?
Costs vary widely depending on the scope of services, but event planners in Austin typically charge 15-20% of your overall event budget. Day-of coordination packages tend to start lower, while full-service planning with design can run significantly higher. Many Austin planners offer tiered packages so you can choose the level of support that fits your budget.
Do I need a planner if my venue has a coordinator?
Yes—a venue coordinator focuses on the property’s needs, like setup times and vendor load-in rules. An independent event planner works for you, handling broader creative vision, vendor selection across all categories, budget management, and guest experience. They’re complementary roles, not interchangeable ones.
Why hire a local Austin planner versus bringing someone from out of town?
Local planners have established vendor relationships, knowledge of Austin’s permit requirements, familiarity with neighborhood logistics, and experience navigating the city’s unique event calendar. They know which venues have the best sunset views, which caterers can handle Texas heat, and which weekends to avoid. That institutional knowledge saves you time, money, and stress.
Great events start with standout spaces—and the people who bring them to life
Austin’s event planning community is packed with creative, dedicated professionals who understand how to harness this city’s energy and translate it into unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re drawn to a planner who specializes in intimate, design-forward weddings or one who can produce a large-scale corporate event with the precision of a sports production, the right partner is out there.
Pair that expertise with an Austin event venue that matches your vision, and you’ve got the foundation for something truly extraordinary.
If you have feedback on our list, reach us anytime at [email protected] with suggestions, corrections, or additions.
