Top 5 Party Planners in New Orleans
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Editor & Publisher -
Client Services Leader
- April 30, 2026
- 17 min read
- Events
Source: Peerspace
New Orleans is a city that practically invented the art of celebration. The brass bands rolling through the French Quarter, the elegant galas lighting up the Warehouse District, Mardi Gras-themed milestone birthdays—NOLA’s event scene is as rich and layered as the city itself. That vibrant landscape means you have access to some seriously talented party planners (and stunning NOLA party venues) who understand how to weave New Orleans’ culture, cuisine, and music into every detail.
With so many quality options, you can find expert planners who handle the logistics so you can actually enjoy your own event. Whether you’re dreaming up an intimate Garden District dinner or a 500-person gala in the Warehouse District, the right planner makes all the difference—and the best ones know this city inside and out.
We’ve carefully vetted and researched the planners on this list, evaluating them on client reviews, industry recognition, portfolio quality, and deep local expertise. These proven professionals know how to make Big Things happen in the Big Easy.
How we curate our list
Finding the right party planner in a city as vibrant as New Orleans takes more than a quick search. We evaluate each company based on criteria that matter most to you as a client, and we regularly update this list to reflect the city’s dynamic event scene.
Our selection criteria include:
- Client reviews across multiple platforms: We look at feedback on The Knot, Google, Yelp, WeddingWire, and social media to ensure consistently positive experiences.
- Industry recognition and awards: Accolades from respected organizations like ADMEI, Smart Meetings, The Knot Best of Weddings, and local publications signal a planner’s standing among peers.
- Portfolio quality and diversity: We look for planners who can show range—different venues, styles, and scales of events.
- Professional credentials and associations: Certifications like CMP (Certified Meeting Planner) and DMCP (Destination Management Certified Professional) demonstrate a commitment to industry standards.
Best party planners in New Orleans
Here are the five standout party planning companies we recommend in New Orleans, each bringing their own unique strengths to the table.
1. NOLA Event Planners
Company name and founder/lead planner: NOLA Event Planners / Kim Jones-Williams
Specialty/niche: NOLA Event Planners is a full-service event production and design company covering budget optimization, project management, set design, AV, logistics, red carpet production, and total meeting management. They specialize in corporate events, weddings, themed events, product launches, parties, and galas—essentially any celebration that calls for a personal touch and creative vision. As a family-owned and operated New Orleans business, they bring a deeply rooted connection to the city while servicing clients around the world.
Notable projects or signature style: With over 30 years of experience, Kim and her team have built a reputation for creating events that range from simple and elegant to completely over the top. Their portfolio spans everything from large wedding parties—including one with 14 pairs of bridesmaids and groomsmen, showcased on their Facebook page—to milestone birthday celebrations and grand openings. Kim also created a digital resource called “Girl, You Can Plan It!” drawing on her decades of expertise to help couples plan their dream wedding with ease. Whether it’s an intimate dinner or a lavish production, their signature is making every client feel like the only client.
Pricing: NOLA Event Planners offers full-scale planning and management as well as design only packages. Submit an inquiry through their website to request a custom quote based on your vision.
Why we love them: What stands out about Kim is the deeply personal approach she brings to every event. Clients consistently praise her ability to deliver a seamless, low-stress planning experience from start to finish. The team excels at budget management, keeping clients within budget while still fulfilling their event vision. Reviewers frequently describe their experiences as “stress-free” and “awesome,” praising Kim’s “attentiveness, professionalism, creativity, and creating something so special and unique.” Her hands-on, warm style ensures no detail gets overlooked—and no client ever feels rushed.
Connect with them: Follow @nolaeventplanner on Instagram and check out @nolaeventplanners on TikTok.
2. NOLA DMC
Company name and founder/lead planner: NOLA DMC / Meg Baird, CMP, DMCP
Specialty/niche: NOLA DMC is a full-service destination management company specializing in the design and implementation of events, activities, tours, transportation, and program logistics. A DMC—or destination management company—is a professional services firm that leverages local expertise and resources for event planning. As a locally woman-owned and operated business, NOLA DMC excels in creating unique local experiences that transform corporate gatherings into unforgettable memories.
Notable projects or signature style: Meg Baird is a tenth-generation New Orleanian with 30+ years of experience in destination management. Her work ranges from corporate conferences for 250–300+ guests to intimate celebrations like custom second-line parades. One client hired NOLA DMC to organize a second-line parade for a 50th birthday, noting that they “had no idea what to do or what to expect” but that NOLA DMC handled every detail perfectly. The company is also committed to sustainability, actively engaging with clients, suppliers, venues, and industry leaders around the environmental impact of corporate events.
Pricing: NOLA DMC creates custom packages for each client. Please reach out to the company directly through their website for a quote.
Why we love them: Meg Baird has been recognized on the Forbes Next 1,000 and Inc. 5000 lists, and her team’s attention to detail is legendary. Testimonials highlight their proactive, client-centered approach and ability to accommodate last-minute requests flawlessly. One client shared that “in my 20 plus years of marketing and event management, NOLA DMC stands out as one of the top 3 business professionals I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with.” Clients consistently praise the team as responsive, patient, and highly creative. That kind of praise doesn’t come easily—and it speaks to the genuine care Meg brings to every program.
Connect with them: Follow @noladmcllc on Instagram and check out @noladmc on TikTok.
3. Wink Design & Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Wink Design & Events / Kizzy Alott
Specialty/niche: Wink Design & Events is an event management, design, and production company specializing in corporate events, weddings, nonprofits, and social events. Established in 2010, Wink was founded on a deep passion for events and, as a local, woman-owned, and minority-certified small business, places emphasis on top-notch organization, efficient operations, and exceptional customer service. Their services span show-flow management, creative design, fabrication, lighting design, floral design, and on-site coordination.
Notable projects or signature style: Wink has built a reputation for high-profile, design-forward events that push creative boundaries. They were featured in the nationally published Grace Ormonde Wedding Style Magazine for the luxurious fairy-tale wedding of NBA Superstar Zach Randolph at the historic Union Station in Indianapolis. Team members Kim Tran and Hien Nguyen were named to Gambit’s 40 Under 40 list—a testament to the caliber of talent on their roster. Whether it’s a corporate conference with immersive branding or a multicultural celebration, Wink brings a sophisticated WOW factor that never feels cookie-cutter.
Pricing: Wink Design & Events creates packages tailored to each client’s needs. Reach out to the company directly through their website to request a quote.
Why we love them: Clients consistently praise the team’s ability to blend cultures and execute complex visions flawlessly.Wink provides comprehensive, end-to-end event management, allowing couples to be fully present and stress-free on their big day. Lead planner Kim Tran is frequently cited by name for her organization, kindness, and client-focused approach. One couple shared that the team “really took the time to get to know us, understand our vision, and guide us in blending our two different cultures perfectly into one wedding.” That commitment to understanding each client’s story, combined with their seamless vendor coordination, is what sets Wink apart in a competitive field.
Connect with them: Follow @winkdesignandevents on Instagram and check out @winkdesignandevents on TikTok.
4. ACCENT New Orleans
Company name and founder/lead planner: ACCENT New Orleans / Diane Lyons, CMP, DMCP
Specialty/niche: ACCENT specializes in full-service corporate event planning in New Orleans, including incentive travel programs, team-building activities, offsite experiences, product launches, corporate retreats, and large-scale conferences. They’re a leader in destination management and a proud member of the global DMC Network. For more than 34 years, companies around the world have trusted ACCENT as the go-to New Orleans event planner.
Notable projects or signature style: Diane is a native New Orleanian who brings insider knowledge of the Crescent City’s culture, cuisine, and music to every program she designs. Her company has worked on seven Super Bowls and has seen firsthand how transformative large-scale events can be for the city. Whether it’s an exclusive VIP affair in a private home or a themed event for over 5,000 guests, ACCENT has the expertise to create award-winning programs. Diane is also the founder of FestiGals, a women’s celebration she launched in 2011 that continues to uplift and inspire, raising over $350K for women’s empowerment.
Pricing: ACCENT New Orleans creates custom packages for each client. Submit a form via their website to connect with their team and share your vision.
Why we love them: Diane Lyons’ accolades speak volumes—her leadership has been recognized with the DMC Network Lifetime Achievement Award, the Smart Women in Meetings Award, and recognition on the Biz New Orleans 500 List. Beyond the awards, her genuine commitment to championing women through FestiGals shows the kind of heart she brings to everything she does. Clients consistently praise the team’s exceptional professionalism, deep local knowledge, and strong creative capabilities. Testimonials highlight that ACCENT makes events feel “effortless” and “personal,” with one reviewer noting, “There isn’t praise enough for the professionalism, attention to detail and creativity for the folks at ACCENT New Orleans.”
Connect with them: Follow @accentdmc on Instagram.
5. Everly Event Planning & Design
Company name and founder/lead planner: Everly Event Planning & Design / Krystle Burger
Specialty/niche: Everly is a New Orleans-based planner specializing in weddings and elopements. Whether you’re planning a destination wedding, a micro wedding with only 50 of your favorite folks, or a New Orleans elopement, they offer one all-inclusive package covering venues, décor details, and vendors. Their approach is collaborative, creative, and custom-tailored to every couple. Visit their investment page for full details on what’s included.
Notable projects or signature style: Krystle graduated first in her class from Louisiana State University with a degree in Business Administration, then interned with an esteemed New Orleans wedding planning company before serving as Events Manager at a private mansion she helped grow from inception. Everly was selected as a winner of The Knot Best of Weddings—an accolade representing the highest-rated wedding professionals, with only 5% of hundreds of thousands of local professionals receiving this award. Krystle is known for her calm, grounded approach and deep knowledge of New Orleans’ vendor landscape, making her an ideal partner for couples navigating the city’s wedding scene for the first time.
Pricing: Full Planning + Design services start at $12,000. The typical spend per person for their Full Planning + Design couples is $550+. Get in touch directly through their website to request a custom quote.
Why we love them: Krystle’s clients genuinely consider her a friend by the end of the planning process. Testimonials highlight her exceptional design sensibility and calm, composed demeanor under pressure. One client shared: “I interviewed every wedding planner in New Orleans and no one impressed me the way Krystle did—she’s cool, sharp, graceful, and charming.” Another noted that “everything on the day was perfect” and “completely stress-free.” That personal connection, paired with serious organizational chops and seamless day-of coordination, is what makes Everly stand out.
Connect with them: Follow @everlyeventplanning on Instagram.
Finding the right New Orleans planner
With so many talented professionals in the Big Easy, choosing the right planner can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to narrow down your options and find someone who truly fits your event.
1. Test their knowledge of neighborhood logistics
Don’t just ask if they know New Orleans—test their knowledge. Ask specific questions like: “What’s the parking situation in the French Quarter on a Saturday night?” or “Which neighborhoods have noise ordinances that could affect our event timeline?” A planner with real local experience will answer immediately and offer alternatives. Ask them to walk you through how they’d handle guest transportation between the Warehouse District and the Garden District—their answer reveals whether they’ve actually managed events across the city.
2. Check how they navigate peak season conflicts
Ask prospective planners: “How do you handle vendor availability during Mardi Gras?” or “What’s your strategy for booking during Jazz 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 New Orleans’ specific events by name—Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, Essence Festival, French Quarter Fest, Voodoo Fest—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?”
3. 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.
4. Assess their crisis management for city-specific challenges
Ask about backup plans: “What happens if a hurricane warning hits the week of our event?” or “How do you handle a sudden summer downpour during an outdoor reception?” Experienced New Orleans 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.
5. Review their portfolio for New Orleans events specifically
Don’t just ask for their portfolio—ask for events specifically in New Orleans 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 NOLA-specific obstacles—parking logistics in the French Quarter, noise complaints in the Marigny, vendor scheduling during Carnival season—and explain solutions.
Planning a party in New Orleans
Event planning in New Orleans is all about timing. The city’s calendar is packed with festivals, conventions, and cultural events that can affect everything from hotel rates to vendor availability.
Weather patterns and best seasons: New Orleans has a subtropical climate, meaning hot, humid summers and mild winters. The most comfortable months for outdoor events are October through April. Hurricane season runs June through November, with peak activity in August and September. Always have an indoor backup plan during these months. For historical climate data and forecasts, check the official National Weather Service forecasts and historical climate data for New Orleans.
Tourism peaks and when to plan around them: The city sees its biggest surges during Mardi Gras (February/March), Jazz Fest (late April/early May), Essence Festival (July), and the Sugar Bowl/college football season (late December/January). Hotel rates spike and vendors book up fast during these windows. Check the official New Orleans & Company events calendar for a comprehensive year-at-a-glance view of what’s happening in the city.
Major events that create capacity issues:
- Mardi Gras (February/March)
- French Quarter Festival (April)
- New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (April/May)
- Essence Festival (July)
- Satchmo SummerFest (August)
- Southern Decadence (September)
- Voodoo Music + Arts Experience (October)
- Bayou Classic (November)
- Sugar Bowl (January)
Transportation and parking: The French Quarter and surrounding neighborhoods have limited parking. Consider arranging shuttles or rideshare coordination for your guests. Vintage streetcars run along a six-mile crescent through the oldest and most majestic section of Uptown New Orleans, but they can be unreliable for tight event timelines. New Orleans currently has five operating streetcar lines travelling over 15.9 miles of tracks. Plan routes and fares through the official New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (NORTA) website.
Event permits: Depending on your event type and location, you may need permits for noise, alcohol service, street closures, or outdoor gatherings. A special event permit is required for events on public property including parks, streets, and squares. Apply through the City of New Orleans One-Stop Shop special event permitting portal, and note that the city recommends beginning the permitting process at least 90 days ahead of your event. A local planner will know exactly which permits apply and how long the approval process takes.
FAQs: party planning in New Orleans
When should I hire a New Orleans party planner?
We recommend hiring at least six to 12 months in advance, especially if your event falls during Mardi Gras season, Jazz Fest, or any major convention period. Popular planners book up quickly, and early planning gives you the best vendor and venue options.
How much does a party planner cost in New Orleans?
Costs vary widely depending on the scope and scale of your event, but event planners typically charge 15-20% of your overall event budget. Some offer flat-fee packages, while others work on a percentage basis. Ask about bundled services—many New Orleans planners have vendor relationships that can save you money on catering, entertainment, and rentals.
Do I need a planner if my venue has a coordinator?
A venue coordinator focuses on the property itself—making sure the space is set up correctly and the venue’s policies are followed. An independent planner handles the broader creative vision, vendor selection, timeline management, and all the details that happen beyond the venue’s walls. For complex events, having both is ideal.
Why hire a local New Orleans planner versus bringing someone from out of town?
Local planners understand NOLA-specific regulations, have established vendor relationships, know which neighborhoods work best for different event types, and can navigate the city’s unique logistical challenges. That insider knowledge is especially valuable during peak seasons when competition for vendors and venues is fierce.
Great events start with standout spaces—and the people who bring them to life
The best parties in NOLA happen when a talented planner meets the perfect New Orleans party venue. The professionals on this list bring decades of combined experience, deep local roots, and genuine passion for creating celebrations that capture the spirit of the Big Easy. Whether you’re planning an intimate birthday dinner in the Garden District or a 500-person corporate gala in the Warehouse District, these planners know how to make it happen.
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.
