Top 10 Corporate Planners in Chicago
-
Content Marketing Manager -
Editor & Publisher
- February 2, 2026
- 31 min read
- Events
Source: Peerspace
Known as the “City of Big Shoulders,” Chicago offers a corporate event landscape that is as diverse as its seventy-seven neighborhoods. From converted warehouse event spaces to chic lofts to stunning mansion venues, the city provides a stunning backdrop for business gatherings.
Hosting an event in Chicago requires way more than just selecting a beautiful venue though. It involves navigating a complex web of union regulations, unpredictable lakefront weather, and logistical hurdles unique to a bustling metropolis.
The right event planning partner acts as a bridge between your brand’s objectives and the physical reality of the event space. They handle the intricate details—securing permits for a pop-up venue on Michigan Avenue, managing union labor at Navy Pier, or designing a contingency plan for a sudden spring snowstorm—so you can focus on your stakeholders.
We curated this list of the top corporate planners in Chicago to help you find a partner who matches your ambition and style. These industry leaders understand that a great space is just the beginning. To truly unlock the potential of a venue, you need a planner who can visualize the possibilities and execute the logistics flawlessly.
How we curate our list
Corporate event planning requires a different skillset than social celebrations, demanding a focus on ROI, brand alignment, and complex stakeholder management. Our selection process focuses on three core pillars:
- Client Reviews and Testimonials: We analyzed feedback across multiple platforms to ensure these planners have a verified history of excellence. We looked for consistent praise regarding communication, budget transparency, and the ability to stay calm under pressure, prioritizing planners with high ratings from verified business clients.
- Industry Recognition and Awards: We prioritized agencies that have received accolades from reputable industry bodies. This includes awards for design, logistics, and innovation, serving as an objective measure of their standing within the professional event community.
- Professional Credentials and Associations: We looked for teams that maintain active memberships in professional organizations. These credentials demonstrate a commitment to industry standards, ongoing education, and operational best practices, ensuring they are up-to-date with the latest regulations and safety protocols.
Every company on this list represents the top tier of Chicago’s event industry, offering the expertise to handle everything from intimate executive retreats to large-scale product launches.
Best corporate planners in Chicago
1. Revel Global Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Revel Global Events / Britt Whitfield
Britt Whitfield has established Revel Global Events as a dominant force in the Chicago event industry by adhering to a simple yet powerful philosophy: “say yes to everything.” This mindset has driven the company to evolve from a standard planning firm into a comprehensive event ecosystem. Whitfield’s leadership is characterized by an intense drive for innovation and a refusal to be limited by traditional boundaries. Under her guidance, the team has cultivated a reputation for being “workaholic yogis”—professionals who balance high-stakes productivity with a creative, flexible approach to problem-solving. This unique culture allows them to tackle the most daunting logistical challenges with a sense of calm and possibility.
Specialty/niche: Revel specializes in full-service event production and large-scale launch events. They are particularly adept at creating immersive environments that require heavy production elements. Their niche lies in their vertical integration; as part of The Revel Group, they have direct access to their own catering division (Limelight Catering) and massive venue spaces (Revel Motor Row, Revel Fulton Market). This internal ecosystem makes them an ideal choice for clients who want a streamlined, one-stop-shop experience where every element, from the menu to the lighting, is cohesive and controlled by a single entity.
Notable projects or signature style: Their signature style is bold, immersive, and often massive in scale. Revel Global Events is known for transforming raw, industrial spaces into polished, on-brand environments that completely transport guests. For example, they’ve produced complex corporate conventions that feel more like festivals, utilizing their own venues to create multi-sensory experiences. They excel at high-energy activations where the environment itself serves as a marketing tool, using custom fabrication and dramatic lighting to reinforce brand identity.
Pricing: Custom pricing based on scope. Due to their vertically integrated model, they can often provide comprehensive quotes that bundle venue, catering, and production, offering value through efficiency for large-scale projects. Reach out to them directly for a personalized quote.
Why we love them: We love Revel’s ability to handle the “impossible” logistics that often trip up smaller firms. Because they own much of their own infrastructure—from decor inventory to the actual venues—they can pivot quickly and execute complex visions without waiting on third-party vendors. This level of control is a game-changer for corporate clients with tight timelines or specific branding requirements. Their “say yes” attitude isn’t just a slogan; it’s a operational advantage that ensures no request is too big or too complicated to execute.
Connect with them: Follow @revelglobalevents on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
2. Kehoe Designs
Company name and founder/lead planner: Kehoe Designs / Tom Kehoe
Tom Kehoe is a legend in the Chicago event scene, known for his visionary approach to environmental design. He founded Kehoe Designs with the belief that an event should be a transformative experience, not just a gathering. Over the years, he has built a team of artisans, designers, and technicians who share his passion for pushing creative boundaries. Kehoe’s background is deeply rooted in art and design, which is evident in every project the firm touches. He has expanded the company’s capabilities to include a technical production division, BlackOak Technical Productions, ensuring that the visual splendor of their events is matched by flawless technical execution.
Specialty/niche: Kehoe Designs specializes in immersive decor, technical production, and experiential design. While they’re famous for luxury weddings, their corporate division is a heavyweight in the industry, handling galas, product releases, and holiday parties for top-tier clients. Their niche is “atmosphere creation.” They’re a go-to partner for brands that need to make a strong visual statement or transport guests to a completely different reality.
Notable projects or signature style: A signature Kehoe event feels like a movie set—rich with texture, custom fabrication, and dramatic lighting that guides the guest experience. They are legendary for transforming spaces so completely that guests often forget where they are. For corporate clients, they have turned ballrooms into futuristic landscapes and warehouses into lush, organic gardens. Their secret weapon, BlackOak Technical Productions, ensures that video mapping, sound design, and lighting are integrated perfectly with the physical decor. One notable aspect of their work is the use of their massive inventory of furniture and decor to create environments that feel bespoke rather than rented, ensuring a unique look for every brand.
Pricing: Custom pricing based on scope. Their pricing reflects the high level of customization and the extensive resources—from in-house floral to technical production—that they bring to each project. Submit a form on their website to connect with an event specialist.
Why we love them: Kehoe Designs understands that corporate events need to be visually arresting to capture attention in the social media age. They are masters of “atmosphere,” using their massive inventory to create environments that are instantly shareable. We appreciate their ownership of The Geraghty, a high-end venue, which gives them deep insight into how to maximize large, open floor plans. This combination of artistic vision and technical prowess ensures that their events are not only beautiful but also operationally sound.
Connect with them: Follow @kehoedesigns on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
3. LOLA Event Productions
Company name and founder/lead planner: LOLA Event Productions / Lori Stephenson
Lori Stephenson founded LOLA Event Productions with a focus on strategic planning and flawless execution. She built the “LOLA Pros” team—a group of planners who operate with a “hive brain” mentality to solve problems efficiently and creatively. Stephenson’s approach is grounded in the belief that the best events are the result of meticulous preparation and a calm demeanor. Her leadership style emphasizes transparency and client advocacy, ensuring that businesses feel supported throughout the entire planning process. The team is widely respected in Chicago for their ability to navigate the city’s unique challenges with grace and precision.
Specialty/niche: LOLA specializes in strategic planning and logistical execution for diverse events. While they have a strong portfolio of social events, their corporate work is characterized by a precision-focused approach that appeals to busy professionals. They excel at events that require a personal touch, such as dinner venues, networking event venues, and team milestones. Their niche is “organized chaos management.” They are the team you call when you need complex logistics handled without drama. Their style is polished and approachable, focusing on guest flow and comfort just as much as aesthetics.
Notable projects or signature style: LOLA’s corporate work is defined by a clean, organized, and guest-centric aesthetic. They are known for transforming unique, non-traditional venues into functional event spaces. For example, they might take a loft venue found on Peerspace and bring in exactly the right vendors to make it suitable for a high-end private dining rooms in Chicago. Their signature style involves a seamless blend of design and function; they ensure that the “boring” details like coat check flow and bar placement are optimized to enhance the guest experience. They are particularly good at navigating Chicago’s venue landscape to find hidden gems that fit a specific corporate culture.
Pricing: Packages start at $4,500; custom quotes for full corporate production. They offer transparent pricing structures that allow businesses to understand exactly where their budget is going. Get in touch for a custom quote.
Why we love them: We appreciate LOLA’s transparency and their focus on the client relationship. They are known for being “logistics magicians,” capable of handling the nitty-gritty details that ensure a corporate event runs on time and on budget. Their team is particularly good at navigating Chicago’s unique venue landscape, helping clients find hidden gems that fit their specific culture. We love that they prioritize the “guest experience” from a practical standpoint, ensuring that attendees are comfortable, well-fed, and engaged.
Connect with them: Follow @lolaeventpros on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
4. Paulette Wolf Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Paulette Wolf Events / Paulette Wolf & Jodi Wolf
With over 40 years in the industry, Paulette Wolf Events (PWE) is a true giant in the field of event production. Founded by Paulette Wolf and now led alongside Jodi Wolf, the firm has a legacy that few can match. They have produced events for the Olympics, the Super Bowl, and countless Fortune 500 companies. The Wolfs have built a reputation for handling high-stakes, high-pressure environments with ease. Their background in large-scale entertainment production infuses their corporate work with a level of showmanship and precision that is rare. They view every corporate event as a “live production,” where timing, cues, and audience engagement are paramount.
Specialty/niche: PWE specializes in large-scale entertainment production and Fortune 500 management. Their niche is the “mega-event”—managing complex entertainment productions where timing is everything. Whether it’s an anniversary party featuring A-list musical talent or a multi-day conference with thousands of attendees, PWE brings a level of broadcast-quality production to the corporate sector. They are the experts in bridging the gap between corporate management and the entertainment world, handling everything from rider negotiation to security protocols for celebrity talent.
Notable projects or signature style: Their events are often described as “experience-rich,” focusing on high-impact moments that define a brand’s legacy. A signature PWE event often features a major entertainment component, seamlessly integrated into the corporate program. They have managed complex outdoor festivals and intimate VIP galas with equal skill. Their style is not just about decoration; it’s about creating a “run of show” that keeps guests engaged from start to finish. They excel at logistics for massive crowds, ensuring that movement, food service, and programming flow without a hitch.
Pricing: Custom pricing based on scope. Given their experience with high-level talent and large-scale production, their services are best suited for substantial budgets requiring expert management. Give them a call or send an email for a quote.
Why we love them: PWE offers a level of access and experience that is hard to match. If your corporate event involves celebrity talent, complex security protocols, or thousands of attendees, their team has seen it all before. We love that they treat corporate events with the same rigor as a live television broadcast. Their ability to manage the intersection of corporate messaging and entertainment value ensures that your event is not only professional but also genuinely entertaining and memorable.
Connect with them: Follow @paulettewolfevents on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
5. HMR Designs
Company name and founder/lead planner: HMR Designs / Rishi Patel (CEO)
Led by CEO Rishi Patel, HMR Designs has positioned itself as a premier design and fabrication house in Chicago. Patel’s leadership focuses on the intersection of architecture, art, and events. The company operates with a “maker” mentality, housing extensive production studios for graphics, fabric, and 3D art under one roof. This capability allows them to control the creative process from concept to installation. Patel and his team are not just planners; they are builders and artists who believe that if a client can dream it, they can construct it. This approach appeals to brands looking for something completely original that cannot be found in a catalog.
Specialty/niche: HMR Designs specializes in custom fabrication, floral design, and 3D artwork. Their niche is “bespoke environment creation.” They are the go-to partner when you need to build something that doesn’t exist yet. For corporate clients, this means they can build stage sets and gala installs that are 100% unique to the brand guidelines. They excel at translating abstract brand concepts into physical structures, using everything from custom carpentry to large-format printing to create a cohesive look.
Notable projects or signature style: Their style is architectural and detail-oriented, often using floral and organic elements to soften corporate spaces. A signature HMR project might involve a custom-built bar that matches a product’s packaging or a ceiling installation that mimics a company’s logo. They are known for their ability to integrate branding into physical structures in a way that feels sophisticated rather than commercial. Whether it’s a product launch requiring a specific color palette or a gala needing a dramatic focal point, HMR builds it from scratch to ensure perfect alignment with the client’s vision.
Pricing: Custom pricing based on scope. Their pricing reflects the custom nature of their work, including design, fabrication, and installation costs. Reach out to them directly for a personalized quote.
Why we love them: We love their “maker” mentality. HMR doesn’t just source decor; they build it. This capability is incredibly valuable for brand activations where off-the-shelf solutions won’t cut it. Their ability to integrate branding into physical structures—from custom bars to ceiling installations—makes them a favorite for product launches. We appreciate that they offer a level of customization that allows brands to truly own the space, creating a unique visual identity for every event.
Connect with them: Follow @hmrdesigns on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
6. Next Level Event Design
Company name and founder/lead planner: Next Level Event Design / Qiana Turner
Qiana Turner founded Next Level Event Design with a clear mission: to position event planning at the intersection of experiential marketing and business strategy. Turner brings a refreshing business-first mindset to the creative world of events. She understands that for corporate clients, an event is a strategic tool used to drive specific outcomes, whether that’s employee retention, lead generation, or brand awareness. Her team excels at project management, using data and strategy to guide their creativity. They focus heavily on the “why” behind an event, ensuring that every design choice drives the client’s business objectives.
Specialty/niche: Next Level specializes in experiential marketing and project management. Their niche is “strategic event design.” They are not just party planners; they are marketing partners. They excel at corporate conferences, employee engagement events, and brand activations that feel modern and energetic. Their approach is deeply rooted in understanding the client’s brand voice and target audience. They are known for “onsite execution,” ensuring that the complex layers of a corporate event unfold without a hitch, allowing the client to focus on networking and messaging.
Notable projects or signature style: Their corporate portfolio includes sophisticated conferences and high-energy brand activations. A signature Next Level event feels purposeful and cohesive. They are experts at creating “meaningful dialogue” through design, ensuring that the environment facilitates connection and communication. Their style is modern, clean, and brand-forward. They often utilize interactive elements and technology to engage attendees, moving beyond passive observation to active participation. They are particularly strong at translating complex corporate messages into engaging live experiences.
Pricing: Custom pricing based on scope (e.g., project management, onsite execution, strategic planning, etc.). They work with clients to develop budgets that align with the expected ROI of the event. Get in touch with them directly for a quote.
Why we love them: Next Level brings a refreshing business-first mindset to creativity. They understand that a corporate event is an investment that needs a return. We love their focus on “meaningful dialogue” during the planning process, ensuring the final result is deeply aligned with the company’s goals. Their ability to speak the language of business while delivering high-quality creative work makes them an invaluable partner for marketing directors and corporate stakeholders.
Connect with them: Follow @nextleveleventdesign on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
7. Michelle Durpetti Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Michelle Durpetti Events / Michelle Durpetti
Michelle Durpetti brings a unique and powerful background to the world of event planning: she is a third-generation managing partner of the legendary Gene & Georgetti steakhouse in Chicago. This deep hospitality DNA infuses her events with a focus on service, food, and guest comfort that is rare in the corporate world. Durpetti understands that at its core, every event is about hospitality. Her firm specializes in producing sophisticated, high-touch events where the guest experience is paramount. She combines the logistical rigor of a planner with the graciousness of a restaurateur, ensuring that every attendee feels personally cared for.
Specialty/niche: Michelle Durpetti Events specializes in high-touch hospitality and luxury client experiences. Their niche is “service-first planning.” They excel at producing events for C-suite executives, board of directors dinners, and luxury incentive trips where the quality of food, wine, and service is scrutinized. Her team ensures that the flow of service is invisible but perfect. Their style is elegant, timeless, and impeccably managed, making them the ideal choice for high-stakes relationship-building events.
Notable projects or signature style: A signature Durpetti event is defined by its warmth and polish. From intimate board dinners in historic venues to large-scale galas, the common thread is an obsession with the guest experience. They are known for curating exceptional menus and wine pairings, leveraging Durpetti’s deep connections in the culinary world. Their aesthetic is often classic and refined, avoiding trends in favor of timeless elegance. They pay close attention to the “invisible” details—lighting levels, sound quality, and service timing—that contribute to a feeling of luxury and comfort.
Pricing: Custom pricing based on scope. Their services are positioned for clients who value a high level of personal attention and premium hospitality. Reach out to the company directly for a personalized quote.
Why we love them: We love the focus on “hospitality” over just “logistics.” Michelle understands that a corporate event is ultimately about how people feel. Her team ensures that the food is hot, the wine is excellent, and the flow of service is flawless. For C-suite events or client-facing galas, this level of polish is essential. We appreciate that she brings a restaurateur’s eye to event planning, catching details about service and catering that other planners might miss.
Connect with them: Follow @mdurpettievents on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
8. A Perfect Event
Company name and founder/lead planner: A Perfect Event / Debi Lilly
Debi Lilly is a celebrity in the event world, known for her work with Oprah Winfrey and her retail lines in major grocery stores. Her agency, A Perfect Event, brings that editorial eye to corporate planning. Lilly’s background in media and retail gives her a unique perspective on brand storytelling. She understands how to create visual moments that translate perfectly to camera and social media. Her team handles everything from floral design to stationery in-house, creating a unified brand look. They are experts at “styling” an event, ensuring that every corner is photogenic and on-brand.
Specialty/niche: A Perfect Event specializes in stylized brand storytelling and retail-ready design. Their niche is “editorial event design.” They excel at events that need to be “Instagrammable” and visually cohesive, such as product launches, influencer events, and media previews. Her team is particularly strong at translating a brand’s visual identity into floral and decor elements. Their style is often colorful, trend-forward, and highly photogenic, making them a great choice for lifestyle brands and media companies.
Notable projects or signature style: A signature event by Debi Lilly is bright, airy, and effortlessly chic. Her team is known for creating lush floral installations and custom branded stationery that tie the whole look together. They often utilize their own venue, “DL Loft,” which serves as a perfect example of their aesthetic—a light-filled, Parisian-inspired space that feels intimate and stylish. They are masters of the “vignette,” creating small, styled areas within an event that encourage guests to take photos and share them online.
Pricing: Custom pricing based on scope. They offer design and production services that can be scaled for intimate gatherings or larger brand activations. Submit a form on their website for a personalized quote.
Why we love them: Debi Lilly’s team understands the power of visual storytelling. For brands that need to make a splash on social media, A Perfect Event knows exactly how to style a room to look good through a lens. We love that they handle floral and stationery in-house, which ensures a level of consistency and color-matching that is hard to achieve with multiple vendors. Their aesthetic is perfect for brands looking to project a modern, stylish, and approachable image.
Connect with them: Follow @aperfectevent on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
9. Cohera
Company name and founder/lead planner: Cohera / Trevor Hanks (CEO)
Cohera is a premier Destination Management Company (DMC) with a massive presence in Chicago. Led by CEO Trevor Hanks, the company focuses on the logistical heavy lifting required to move large groups of people. While traditional planners focus on the event inside the room, Cohera focuses on the entire guest journey—from the airport arrival to the hotel transfer to the venue and back. They are the experts you call when you need to move 500 people from a hotel to a venue without a single delay. Their deep knowledge of Chicago’s infrastructure makes them an indispensable partner for out-of-town corporate groups.
Specialty/niche: Cohera specializes in destination management and logistical transportation. Their niche is “group logistics and local experiences.” They excel at managing hotel blocks, shuttle systems, and airport transfers. Beyond transportation, they specialize in “Windy City Wellness” and local experiences, helping out-of-town corporate groups connect with the city. They are the bridge between the visiting company and the local landscape, knowing every venue, every caterer, and every shortcut in the city to avoid traffic.
Notable projects or signature style: Their style is operational excellence wrapped in local flavor. A signature Cohera project involves seamless transportation logistics combined with curated local tours or activities. They might organize a private architectural boat tour for executives or a “taste of Chicago” block party for a conference. They are known for their reliability and their ability to handle complex manifests and schedules. They ensure that the logistical side of the event—which can often be the most stressful—is invisible to the guest.
Pricing: Custom pricing based on scope. As a DMC, their pricing often involves management fees for logistics, transportation, and vendor coordination. Reach out to them directly for a personalized quote.
Why we love them: For large corporate groups coming into Chicago, a DMC is often more necessary than a traditional planner. Cohera acts as the “planner’s ally,” handling the heavy lifting of shuttles, hotel blocks, and local tours. We love their focus on “Chicago experiences,” ensuring that visiting teams don’t just see a conference room, but actually taste and feel the city. Their operational expertise provides peace of mind for organizers who are managing hundreds of attendees.
Connect with them: Follow @meet cohera on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
10. Effortless Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Effortless Events / Steven and Jen Brooks
Founded by Steven and Jen Brooks, Effortless Events lives up to its name by focusing on removing the friction points of corporate planning. With over 16 years of experience, they have carved out a niche in the tech and B2B sectors. Their approach is highly strategic, starting with the “ROI” of the event and working backward to the logistics. They understand that for many companies, an event is a line item that needs to justify itself. The Brooks duo brings a calm, analytical approach to planning, ensuring that every decision serves the business message. They are experts at creating environments that facilitate networking and learning without unnecessary fluff.
Specialty/niche: Effortless Events specializes in ROI-focused meetings and strategic conferences. Their niche is “frictionless business events.” They are particularly strong in the B2B space, where the focus is often on content delivery and networking rather than spectacle. They excel at managing the flow of information and people, ensuring that breakout sessions, keynotes, and networking breaks run smoothly. Their style is clean, professional, and efficient, prioritizing the attendee’s ability to absorb information and make connections.
Notable projects or signature style: A signature Effortless Events project is a well-oiled conference or meeting where everything runs on time. They are known for their detailed run-of-shows and their ability to anticipate bottlenecks before they happen. They focus on clarity and precision, creating environments that are conducive to business. Whether it’s a sales meeting venue or a user conference, they ensure that the AV works, the wifi is fast, and the coffee is hot. Their events feel professional and purposeful, reflecting the serious nature of their clients’ businesses.
Pricing: Custom pricing based on scope. They offer services ranging from strategic consulting to full-service event management. Reach out to them directly to request a corporate event consultation.
Why we love them: We appreciate their business-centric approach. They understand that for many companies, an event is a strategic tool. Effortless Events focuses on clarity, precision, and calm execution, ensuring that stakeholders see the value of their investment. We love that they prioritize the “business” in “business events,” making them a perfect partner for companies that need to deliver a clear message to their teams or customers without distraction.
Connect with them: Follow @effortless_events on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
Finding the right Chicago planner
Choosing a corporate planner in Chicago isn’t just about finding someone with good taste; it’s about finding a partner who can navigate the specific operational challenges of a major union city with extreme weather swings. Here’s how to vet your options.
1. Test Their Knowledge of Neighborhood Logistics
Chicago is a “city of neighborhoods,” and each one operates differently. The logistics of a load-in at a high-rise in the Loop are vastly different from a ground-level warehouse in Fulton Market. Test their knowledge by asking specific questions:
- “How do you handle vendor parking logistics on a Friday night?”
- “What are the noise restrictions for outdoor events in the corporate event venues in the Near West Side versus the lakefront?”
- “Which alleys in the West Loop are accessible for 24-foot trucks?”
A planner with real local experience will immediately reference specific alleys, loading docks, and ward restrictions. If they give you a vague “we’ll figure it out,” be cautious. They need to know the physical reality of moving goods and people through Chicago’s grid. Their answer reveals whether they’ve actually managed events across the city or are just listing it on their website.
2. Evaluate Their Vendor Network Depth (and Union Knowledge)
In Chicago, “who you know” matters, especially regarding labor unions. Many major venues (like Navy Pier or McCormick Place) have strict union jurisdiction over lighting, rigging, and drayage. Ask:
- “Have you managed events at union venues? How do you budget for the extra labor costs?”
- “Who are your go-to non-union vendors for private venue rentals?”
- “Which caterers do you work with regularly, and why?”
A strong planner will explain the difference immediately and name 3-5 vendors per category. They should explain the relationship: “We’ve worked with [Vendor X] on 20+ events—they’re reliable for last-minute changes.” If they only name one, they might be receiving kickbacks or lack variety. You want a partner who matches the vendor to _your_ budget and style, not just their friend.
3. Assess Their Crisis Management for Chicago Weather
Chicago weather is famous for a reason. The “Hawk” (wind) off the lake can ruin an outdoor tent setup in minutes, and snow can gridlock the city in April. Ask about backup plans:
- “What’s the backup plan if 40 mph winds hit our rooftop venue?”
- “How do you handle guest transportation if a winter storm hits during the event?”
- “Can you walk me through how you handled a weather crisis for a past client?”
Experienced Chicago planners have protocols ready: heated tent corridors, relationships with indoor backup venues, and communication templates for guests. Listen for specifics: Did they have tent sidewalls ready for wind? Climate-controlled spaces secured as backup? Their answer should include specific examples of times they’ve had to pivot due to weather. Generic “we’re flexible” responses indicate they haven’t stress-tested their process in Chicago’s real conditions.
4. Verify Their Permit and Regulation Expertise
Chicago bureaucracy can be tricky. From liquor licenses to special event permits for blocking sidewalks, you need a planner who knows the paperwork. Ask:
- “What permits do we need for a pop-up activation on Michigan Avenue?”
- “What is the timeline for securing a liquor license for a raw venue space?”
- “How do we handle fire safety inspections for a custom build?”
A knowledgeable planner will know the timelines (often 30-60 days) and the specific city departments involved. They shouldn’t be guessing about legality; they should be guiding you through it. Ask them to share a permit they’ve secured for a similar event. Their paperwork trail proves they’ve navigated Chicago’s bureaucracy successfully, not just theoretically.
5. Measure Budget Realism for This Market
Chicago is a major market, and costs can vary wildly depending on the venue and labor requirements. Share your budget range and ask:
- “What’s realistic for a corporate dinner in the Loop with this budget?”
- “How do union labor costs at a major venue compare to a private Peerspace rental?”
Good planners will be honest: “For a union venue, expect labor to take up 30% of your production budget. Here’s where we can save by using a private venue.” They should offer 2-3 cost tiers with concrete examples. Warning sign: Promising everything without discussing tradeoffs. Ask: “Show me two past events—one at our budget and one 50% higher. What did the extra money buy?” Their answer reveals what they actually optimize for and whether it aligns with your priorities.
Tips for planning an event in Chicago
Timing is everything in the Windy City. When you plan determines not just the weather, but the cost and feasibility of your event.
Weather patterns:
- Summer (June-August): Beautiful but humid. Prime time for rooftop venues, but always have a rain plan. Check the National Weather Service Chicago for seasonal averages.
- Fall (September-October): Often considered the best event weather—crisp and clear.
- Winter (November-March): High risk of snow and bitter cold. Transportation logistics become critical. Heated garages and valet are non-negotiable.
Traffic and timing:
Chicago traffic is notorious, specifically on the Kennedy Expressway (I-90/94) and Lake Shore Drive.
- Avoid scheduling guest arrivals between 4:00 PM and 6:30 PM on weekdays if they are traveling from O’Hare or the suburbs.
- Be aware of the “L” train noise if you are booking venues in the Loop or River North; ensure your planner checks soundproofing.
- Consult the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) for public transit schedules and alerts that might affect guest travel.
Major events to avoid:
Chicago hosts massive city-wide events that swallow up hotel blocks and spike rideshare prices. Check the Choose Chicago Events Calendar for:
- Lollapalooza (Early August): Takes over Grant Park and downtown hotels.
- The Chicago Marathon (October): Closes major streets across the entire city.
- NASCAR Chicago Street Race (July): Shuts down Grant Park and major arteries.
- Major Conventions: Check the McCormick Place calendar. A massive medical or manufacturing convention can sell out the entire city’s hotel inventory.
FAQs: Chicago corporate events
When should I hire a Chicago corporate planner?
For large-scale conferences or events during peak season (summer/fall), hire 9-12 months in advance. For smaller offsites or dinners, 3-6 months is usually sufficient. Top planners book their holiday dates by July, so early planning is essential for end-of-year celebrations.
How much does a corporate planner cost in Chicago?
Most corporate planners charge either a flat production fee or a percentage of the total event budget (typically 15-20%). Minimums for full-service agencies often start around $5,000 – $10,000 for management fees, excluding the cost of the event itself. This fee covers their time, expertise, and vendor management.
Do I need a planner if I book a hotel venue?
Yes. A hotel “event manager” works for the hotel; their job is to sell you food and rooms. An independent planner works for _you_, managing the AV, the run of show, the branding, and the guest experience, ensuring your vision isn’t compromised by hotel policy.
What is the difference between a Planner and a DMC?
A Planner focuses on the creative design, production, and flow of the event itself. A Destination Management Company (DMC) focuses on the logistics of moving people—transportation, hotel blocks, airport transfers, and local tours. For large out-of-town groups, you often need both to ensure a seamless experience.
Great events start with standout spaces—and the people who bring them to life
Chicago is a city that rewards bold vision. Whether you are planning a strategic retreat in a historic Bronzeville mansion or a product launch in a West Loop industrial loft, the combination of a unique venue and an expert planner is the key to success. These professionals know how to harness the energy of the city, navigate its challenges, and create moments that your team and clients will talk about for years.
If you are ready to start exploring the possibilities, Peerspace offers access to thousands of creative locations across Chicago that can serve as the foundation for your next extraordinary event. Browse corporate event venues in Chicago on Peerspace to find the space that inspires your next big idea.
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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Submit a NominationPlanners, show off your work
After your booking, upload photos to highlight how you transformed the space.
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