Top 5 Wedding Planners in Boston

In Boston, history and innovation collide, creating a backdrop for weddings that’s as diverse as it is stunning. The city offers a distinct personality, spanning the cobblestone charm of Beacon Hill and the sleek, industrial waterfront of the Seaport District. With its rich academic heritage, vibrant arts scene, and deep-rooted sports culture, Boston attracts couples who want their nuptials to reflect a blend of classic New England elegance and modern sophistication.

Whether you envision a black-tie affair in a Gilded Age library or a breezy, nautical-inspired gathering overlooking the harbor, the “Hub of the Universe” provides an endless array of wedding venues and possibilities for your big day.

However, planning a wedding ceremony or reception in a bustling, historic metropolis comes with its own unique set of challenges. Navigating narrow one-way streets for vendor load-ins, securing permits for public parks, and managing guest transportation during peak tourism seasons requires a partner with deep local expertise. The competitive landscape of Boston’s event industry benefits you, the host, by offering a wealth of talented professionals who have mastered these logistics.

To help you navigate this dynamic landscape, we curated a list of the top 5 wedding planners in Boston who can match your aesthetic and logistical needs. Whether you need a full-service producer to handle every detail or a coordinator to manage the final month, these industry leaders have the experience and the local connections to bring your vision to life.

How we curate our list

Finding the right partner for your wedding is a personal journey, but it starts with verifying professional excellence. We selected the planners on this list based on a rigorous set of standards designed to ensure quality, reliability, and a proven track record in the Boston market. We believe that trust is the foundation of any successful planner-client relationship, and our vetting process reflects that belief.

Our selection criteria include:

• Client reviews across multiple platforms: We analyze feedback from couples on The Knot, WeddingWire, Google, and social media to ensure consistent satisfaction regarding communication, problem-solving, and execution.
• Industry recognition and awards: We look for planners who are recognized by their peers and leading publications, such as “Best of Boston” awards or features in regional wedding magazines.
• Professional credentials and associations: Active membership in industry groups, ongoing education, and verified business operations are often held by our planners, signaling a commitment to ethical and professional standards.

Every planner featured here has demonstrated a commitment to creating seamless, memorable experiences for their clients.

Best wedding planners in Boston

1. AE Events

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Company name and founder/lead planner: AE Events / Christine Altieri

Christine Altieri founded AE Events with a vision to bring a higher level of production value to the Boston social scene. With decades of experience in the industry, she has built a team that is as comfortable managing complex corporate galas as they are intimate, high-stakes weddings. Her background in large-scale event production means she approaches weddings with a producer’s mindset, anticipating logistical hurdles that others might miss.

Specialty/niche: AE Events specializes in high-touch, design-forward weddings that require complex logistical coordination. They excel at transforming blank-canvas spaces into immersive environments, making them a perfect match for couples who want a wedding that feels like a distinct production rather than a standard package. Their expertise spans from intimate, detail-oriented social gatherings and parties to large-scale, multi-day celebrations. They are particularly adept at working with couples who have a strong design vision but need a partner to execute the technical aspects of lighting, sound, and flow.

Notable projects or signature style: The team at AE Events is known for a style that is sophisticated, polished, and deeply personal. Their portfolio showcases a versatility that ranges from elegant tented receptions on private estates to chic, modern celebrations in downtown Boston venues. They’re particularly skilled at handling the “invisible” work—managing vendor load-ins on tricky Boston streets, coordinating transportation for hundreds of guests, and ensuring that lighting and sound design enhance the venue’s natural architecture.

Pricing: AE Events creates custom proposals for each client based on the scope and scale of the event. Reach out to them directly for a complementary consultation.

Why we love them: We love AE Events for their ability to balance creative vision with operational excellence. Christine Altieri and her team bring a level of professionalism that puts clients at ease immediately. They understand that a wedding is a live production, and they approach it with the precision of seasoned event producers. Their “Best of Boston” recognition is well-earned, reflecting their consistency in delivering flawless events. The team’s ability to manage high-stress environments with grace ensures that you can enjoy your day without worrying about the technical details.

Connect with them: Follow AE Events (@aeevents) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.

2. Contagious Events

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Company name and founder/lead planner: Contagious Events / Joe Rogers

Joe Rogers founded Contagious Events to disrupt the traditional wedding industry, creating a haven for couples who feel out of place in the world of white lace and rigid etiquette. With a background that values authenticity over convention, Joe has built a brand that is unapologetically unique, inclusive, and fun. He has made it his mission to ensure that every couple feels seen and celebrated. His approach is refreshingly direct and transparent, stripping away the “fluff” of wedding planning to focus on what actually matters: creating a kick-ass party that reflects the people getting married.

Specialty/niche: Contagious Events is the go-to planner for couples who want to break the rules. They specialize in non-traditional weddings and “anti-cookie-cutter” celebrations. If you are looking to ditch the bouquet toss, wear a colorful dress, or get married in a pop-up event space that isn’t a standard venue, this is your team. They excel at serving couples who prioritize guest experience and genuine fun over Pinterest perfection, often working with clients who want to reclaim their wedding day from family expectations or societal norms.

Notable projects or signature style: The Contagious Events style is bold, colorful, and meticulously organized. They’re known for taking unconventional ideas and making them a reality, whether that is a surprise wedding disguised as an engagement party celebration or a reception that feels more like a high-energy festival than a formal dinner. Their work often features vibrant design elements, unique entertainment choices, and a relaxed, joyful atmosphere that puts everyone at ease. Joe is particularly skilled at “stealth planning,” where the logistics are airtight but the vibe remains loose and spontaneous.

Pricing: Contagious Events offers transparency in their pricing structure. The “Primetime” package involves two payments of $2,250.00. The “Hootenanny” package starts at $14,500 (split into three equal payments). The highest-tier “Shindig” package starts at $16,500—also split into three equal payments. Contact them directly for the most up-to-date pricing information.

Why we love them: We love Contagious Events for their authenticity and transparency. Joe Rogers has created a space in the industry for couples who might feel alienated by the traditional “wedding industrial complex.” Their commitment to inclusivity is woven into every aspect of their business. They’re also incredibly practical, offering clear pricing and straightforward advice that helps couples navigate the often-confusing world of wedding budgets. If you want a planner who will fight for your vision and keep you laughing through the stress, Joe is your guy.

Connect with them: Follow Contagious Events (@contagiousevents) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.

3. Something Bleu Wedding & Event Planning

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Company name and founder/lead planner: Something Bleu Wedding & Event Planning / Julie Riley

Julie Riley established Something Bleu Wedding & Event Planning with a commitment to bringing a sense of calm and classic sophistication to the often-hectic world of wedding planning. Her approach is rooted in the belief that a wedding should be a true reflection of the couple, executed with effortless elegance. Julie’s background allows her to blend traditional etiquette with contemporary design trends, ensuring that every event feels timeless yet fresh. Her presence is often described as a “calming force,” which is invaluable during the high-pressure moments of a wedding day.

Specialty/niche: Something Bleu specializes in creating elegant, timeless weddings with a modern twist. Julie’s niche lies in balancing traditional New England charm with contemporary aesthetics, making her an ideal choice for couples who want a refined celebration that feels sophisticated but never stuffy. She is equally adept at planning seaside ceremonies on the North Shore as she is formal receptions in downtown Boston hotels. Her focus is always on the “guest journey,” ensuring that every element of the day flows seamlessly from one moment to the next.

Notable projects or signature style: Julie’s signature style is defined by clean lines, romantic florals, and a cohesive aesthetic that ties every detail together. Her portfolio features stunning events at some of Boston’s most iconic venues. Whether it’s a lavish ballroom affair or an intimate garden party setting, Something Bleu events are characterized by their seamless flow and polished execution. Julie is known for her ability to curate a design that feels uniquely personal to the couple, incorporating meaningful details that tell their story without feeling forced or kitschy.

Pricing: According to their website, pricing is based on a customizable proposal starting at $5,000. On average, their clients invest between $10,000 – $18,000. Contact the team directly for a custom quote that aligns with your vision.

Why we love them: We love Something Bleu for the sense of peace Julie brings to the planning process. Her clients consistently rave about her ability to handle stress with grace, allowing them to actually enjoy their engagement. The “Bleu” touch is about more than just a color; it is about a standard of service that feels luxurious, personal, and incredibly reassuring. Her dedication to creating a seamless guest experience means that from the moment invitations are sent to the final farewell, every interaction is thoughtful and deliberate.

Connect with them: Follow Something Bleu (@somethingbleuweddings) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.

4. MK Your Dream Day

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Company name and founder/lead planner: MK Your Dream Day / Mary Kate Morrissey

Mary Kate Morrissey founded MK Your Dream Day with a passion for celebrating love in all its forms, set against the backdrop of New England’s most picturesque locations. Her team is dedicated to creating weddings that are as joyful as they are beautiful, prioritizing the couple’s experience above all else. Mary Kate brings an infectious energy to the planning process, acting as both a cheerleader and a logistical mastermind.

Specialty/niche: MK Your Dream Day specializes in capturing the quintessential charm of New England. Whether it is a nautical-themed celebration on the Boston Harbor or a classic reception in a historic hotel venue ballroom, Mary Kate and her team are experts at planning weddings that feel distinctly “Boston.” They’re known for their exceptional organizational skills and their ability to handle the complex logistics that come with city weddings, making them a favorite for couples who want a stress-free planning experience that results in a polished, elegant event.

Notable projects or signature style: The team’s signature style is polished, joyful, and incredibly detailed. They have a knack for finding the perfect balance between traditional elegance and modern fun. Their portfolio includes beautiful weddings at some of the region’s most sought-after venues, where they manage everything from vendor coordination to day-of execution with ease. Mary Kate is particularly skilled at timeline management, ensuring that the day flows smoothly from the first look to the last dance. Her approach is collaborative and supportive, helping couples navigate the myriad decisions involved in planning a wedding without feeling overwhelmed.

Pricing: Day-of coordination starts at $4,200; the partial-service package ranges from $6,900 – $9,900; and the full-service package starts at $16,000. Get in touch through their website for a custom quote.

Why we love them: We love MK Your Dream Day for their infectious enthusiasm and rock-solid reliability. Mary Kate treats every wedding as if it were her own, bringing a level of care and attention that is truly special. Her clients often describe her as a “lifesaver” and a “joy to work with,” citing her ability to anticipate problems before they arise. Her deep connections with local vendors mean she can often secure the best teams for her clients, ensuring that every aspect of the day is handled by trusted professionals.

Connect with them: Follow MK Your Dream Day (@mkyourdreamday) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.

5. Jodi Raphael Events

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Company name and founder/lead planner: Jodi Raphael Events / Jodi Raphael

Jodi Raphael Events is synonymous with luxury and transformation in the Boston event scene. Jodi Raphael has built a reputation as a visionary who can take any space—no matter how raw or challenging—and turn it into a breathtaking environment. Her background in design and production allows her to see potential where others see obstacles, making her the perfect partner for couples who want to create something truly one-of-a-kind. Jodi leads her team with a focus on high-concept design and flawless execution, ensuring that every detail, from the lighting cues to the table linens, contributes to a cohesive narrative.

Specialty/niche: Jodi Raphael Events specializes in high-concept, full-service planning where the goal is to create an environment that completely transports guests. They are experts at taking a raw space—like a tent, a warehouse event space, or a ballroom—and redesigning it from the ground up. This is the team for couples who want a “wow” factor and are looking for a planner who can handle complex production elements with ease. Their niche is luxury transformation, where they layer textures, lighting, and floral design to create a multi-sensory experience that goes far beyond standard wedding decor.

Notable projects or signature style: The signature style of Jodi Raphael Events is bold, immersive, and impeccably curated. They are known for their ability to layer textures, lighting, and floral design to create a cohesive narrative for the event. Their portfolio includes lavish weddings that feel both grand and intimate, thanks to their clever use of space and layout. Jodi is a master of “flow,” ensuring that guests move through the event naturally, discovering new surprises at every turn.

Pricing: Jodi Raphael Events offers bespoke pricing based on the complexity and scale of the event. Since every event is custom-designed, contact them directly to receive a personalized quote.

Why we love them: We love Jodi Raphael Events for their fearless approach to design. Jodi’s passion for her work is evident in every detail, and her team is known for going above and beyond to ensure client satisfaction. They handle the pressure of high-stakes events with a calm confidence that is invaluable on a wedding day. Their ability to take a blank canvas and turn it into a masterpiece is unmatched, making them the ideal choice for couples who want a wedding that’s truly a work of art.

Connect with them: Follow Jodi Raphael Events (@jodiraphaelevents) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.

Finding the right Boston planner

With so many talented professionals available in the Boston area, choosing the right partner to guide you through your wedding journey can feel overwhelming. However, asking the right questions can help you narrow down your options and find the expert who fits your specific needs and vision.

1. Test Their Knowledge of Neighborhood Logistics

Boston is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own set of rules and logistical quirks. Don’t just ask if they know the city—test their specific knowledge. Ask questions like:

• “How do you handle vendor load-in on the narrow streets of Beacon Hill?”
• “What’s the parking situation for guests in the North End on a Saturday night?”
• “How does the traffic in the Seaport differ from Back Bay 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 would handle guest transportation between specific areas. Their answer reveals whether they have actually managed events across the city or are just listing it on their website.

2. Check How They Navigate Peak Season Conflicts

Boston is a hub for major events that can swallow up hotel blocks and clog traffic. Ask prospective planners: “How do you handle vendor availability during graduation season or the Boston Marathon?”

The right answer includes specific strategies: backup vendor lists, early booking timelines, and price negotiation tactics during high-demand periods. They should mention specific events by name—like the Head of the Charles Regatta or “Allston Christmas” (September 1st move-in day)—without you prompting them. Follow up by asking for an example of an event they planned during a busy weekend and how they managed the logistics.

3. Verify Their Permit and Regulation Expertise

From historic buildings to public parks, Boston has strict regulations. Ask: “What permits would we need for a tented reception in a public park versus a private estate?”

A knowledgeable planner will outline requirements without hesitation: noise permits, fire safety inspections for tents, and alcohol licenses. They should know processing times and costs. A green flag is a planner who says, “Here’s the exact department to contact and the timeline we need to follow.” Ask them to share a permit they have secured for a similar event to prove they have navigated the bureaucracy successfully.

4. Measure Budget Realism for This Market

Boston is one of the more expensive wedding markets in the country. Share your budget range and ask: “What’s realistic for a wedding in downtown Boston with this budget?”

Good planners will be honest. They might say, “For a Seaport venue, expect to pay X. Here is where we can save: choosing a Peerspace ballroom venue instead of a major hotel, or picking an off-peak date.” They should offer realistic cost tiers with concrete examples. A warning sign is a planner who promises everything without discussing tradeoffs. Ask them to show you two past events—one at your budget and one 50% higher—to see what the extra money actually buys.

5. Confirm Communication Style Fits the Pace

The Boston event market moves fast. Ask: “What is your typical response time?” and “How do you prefer to communicate?”

Test this during your selection process. Note how quickly they respond to your inquiries. Some planners do weekly check-ins; others are available via text. Neither is wrong, but misalignment creates stress. Ask about decision-making: “When do you need answers from us versus when do you handle decisions independently?” In a fast-moving market, you need a planner who can act quickly when vendor holds expire but also knows when to loop you in.

Planning a wedding in Boston

Successful event planning is all about timing and logistics. Boston offers endless possibilities, from the historic charm of Beacon Hill to the modern waterfront, but it requires careful navigation to ensure your guests have a smooth experience.

Factors to Consider:

• Weather Patterns: New England weather is famous for its unpredictability. Late spring (May/June) and early autumn (September/October) are generally the most beautiful months, offering mild temperatures and stunning foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter brings snow and parking bans. Always have a solid “Plan B” for outdoor wedding venues, such as tent sidewalls or an indoor backup space. Check the National Weather Service for historical data and forecasts.
• Traffic and Transportation: Boston traffic is notorious. The “Big Dig” improved things, but tunnels still jam during rush hour. Avoid planning guest travel that requires crossing the city between 4 PM and 6 PM on weekdays. Encourage guests to use ride-shares or arrange shuttle buses, as parking can be scarce and expensive, especially in neighborhoods like the North End and Beacon Hill. Visit the MBTA website for public transit schedules and alerts.
• Major Events to Avoid: Boston hosts several massive events that take over the city. Avoid booking your wedding during:
• Boston Marathon (Patriots’ Day, April): Roads are closed, and the city is gridlocked.
• University Graduations (May/June): Hotels are booked solid, and restaurants are full.
• Head of the Charles Regatta (October): Draws hundreds of thousands of spectators to the river.
• Move-in Day (September 1st): Known as “Allston Christmas,” moving trucks clog the streets.
• Check the Meet Boston events calendar to stay ahead of major city-wide happenings.

Expert Advice:

If you’re not a local, it’s easy to miss these logistical details. We strongly recommend deferring to local planners who understand these nuances. They know which one-way streets to avoid and which hotels offer the best room blocks during peak season. For specific regulations regarding public spaces, consult the City of Boston Special Events department.

FAQs: wedding planning in Boston

When should I hire a Boston event planner?

We recommend hiring your planner at least 12 months in advance. Boston venues and premium vendors often book up more than a year out, especially for popular dates in June and September. If you are planning a wedding during graduation season, start even earlier.

How much does an event planner cost in Boston?

Costs vary based on experience and service level, but you should generally allocate 15-20% of your overall event budget for a full-service planner. In Boston, day-of coordination might start around $2,500, while full-service planning often begins at $8,000-$10,000 and goes up from there.

Do I need a planner if my venue has a coordinator?

Yes. A venue coordinator works for the venue; their job is to protect the property and manage the food and beverage staff. An independent planner works for you. They manage your timeline, coordinate all your outside vendors (florist, band, photographer), and advocate for your vision.

Why hire a local Boston planner versus bringing someone from out of town?

Local knowledge is power. A Boston planner knows which loading docks require a special permit, which caterers have the best lobster rolls, and how to navigate the city’s complex one-way street system. They have established relationships with vendors that can save you money and stress.

Great events start with standout spaces—and the people who bring them to life

Great experiences start with the right people and the right space. Boston offers endless possibilities, from the historic libraries to modern lofts, and the expert planners on this list know exactly how to harness that energy. They ensure that every detail, from the timeline to the table settings, reflects your unique vision.

When you pair a distinctive wedding venue in Boston with a top-tier planner, you create the foundation for a celebration that’s truly extraordinary.

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.