Top 5 Wedding Planners in Cincinnati
-
Content Marketing Manager -
Editor & Publisher
- February 23, 2026
- 20 min read
- Events
Source: Peerspace
Cincinnati is a city with a distinct soul—a place where historic German architecture in Over-the-Rhine meets the modern energy of The Banks along the Ohio River. Known as the “Queen City,” it offers a wedding landscape as diverse as its neighborhoods, ranging from industrial lofts in Camp Washington to manicured parks in Hyde Park. With a rich cultural history and a vibrant arts scene, Cincinnati draws couples who want their celebrations to feel authentic and grounded in a strong sense of place.
Navigating the logistical quirks of a river city—from bridge traffic during Bengals games to the unpredictable Ohio Valley weather—requires a steady hand and deep local knowledge. That’s where the value of a top-tier wedding planner becomes undeniable. The right planner acts as your advocate, designer, and logistical safety net. They know which Cincinnati wedding venues have strict load-in policies, how to secure a tent when a spring storm rolls in, and which caterers can flawlessly execute a seated dinner for 300 guests.
We’ve curated this list of the top five wedding planners in Cincinnati to help you find a partner who matches your aesthetic and organizational needs. These are the experts who know how to harness the city’s energy to create seamless, unforgettable celebrations—allowing you to step back and actually experience the joy of your wedding day.
How we curate our list
We know that trusting someone with one of the most important days of your life is a major decision. That’s why we evaluate potential planners based on a specific set of rigorous standards to ensure they can deliver high-quality experiences for their clients.
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. We look for patterns in reviews that highlight reliability and quality over time.
- Industry recognition and awards: We look for planners with accolades from respected organizations and wedding publications, such as “Best of Weddings” or Hall of Fame inductions, which indicate peer respect and long-term success.
- Professional credentials and associations: Active membership in industry groups, ongoing education, and verified business operations are often held by our planners. We value professionals who invest in their craft and stay updated on industry standards.
Every planner on this list meets high standards for professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail. Explore the ones that resonate most with you and reach out to them directly for more information.
Best wedding planners in Cincinnati
1. KMC Weddings and Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: KMC Weddings and Events / Karen Collins
Karen Collins has established herself as a pivotal figure in the Cincinnati wedding industry. With a background blending logistical expertise with dramatic design, Collins has built a reputation for challenging the status quo. She isn’t just a planner; she’s an advocate for couples who want to rewrite the rulebook. Her journey is marked by a commitment to authenticity, encouraging clients to ditch outdated traditions in favor of choices that genuinely reflect their personalities. Her team is known for high energy and meticulous attention to detail.
Specialty/niche: KMC Weddings and Events specializes in designing experiences for the “rebellious” couple—those who want to break away from standard wedding templates. They excel at producing events that feel authentic, personal, and often edgy. Their expertise covers everything from full-scale luxury wedding production to intimate micro-weddings, with a strong focus on custom design. They’re particularly adept at working in unique, non-traditional venues where standard packages don’t apply.
Notable projects or signature style: The KMC signature style is bold, modern, and unapologetically unique. Their portfolio showcases events where design takes center stage, often utilizing moody color palettes, innovative floor plans, and striking floral installations that transform industrial spaces into romantic havens. They excel at manipulating lighting and texture to create immersive environments. Whether it’s a dark, romantic evening affair in a historic OTR venue or a bright, energetic rooftop celebration, they ensure the vibe is cohesive and impactful.
Pricing: According to their website, full-service planning fees for the 2026/2027 season start at $17,500. For a custom quote, reach out to them to schedule a consultation.
Why we love them: We love KMC Weddings and Events because they aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo. Karen Collins has built a brand that empowers couples to do things their own way. Client reviews consistently praise Karen’s ability to handle logistics with a cool, calm demeanor. Testimonials highlight her as the perfect match for detail-oriented couples, noting that her reassuring presence makes the planning process stress-free while ensuring things get done.
Connect with them: Follow @kmcweddings on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
2. Elegant Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Elegant Events / Elisa MacKenzie
Elisa MacKenzie brings professionalism and poise to the Cincinnati wedding scene that has earned her widespread acclaim. With years of experience, MacKenzie has cultivated a team dedicated to the art of stress-free planning. Her approach is rooted in the belief that every couple deserves a celebration that is both beautiful and seamlessly executed. She’s particularly passionate about inclusivity and has become a go-to expert for multicultural weddings, understanding the delicate balance required to honor diverse traditions. Her leadership style is calm and reassuring, providing a steady hand for couples navigating wedding logistics.
Specialty/niche: Elegant Events focuses on creating sophisticated, timeless celebrations with particular strength in multicultural and multi-day weddings. They’re experts at blending traditions and managing complex logistics that come with large guest lists and intricate cultural ceremonies. Their niche lies in their ability to respect and integrate various customs seamlessly, ensuring all family members feel honored. Whether handling traditional Indian weddings or modern fusion celebrations, they navigate diverse cultural requirements while maintaining cohesive event flow.
Notable projects or signature style: The team at Elegant Events is known for a polished, classic aesthetic that never goes out of style. Their portfolio demonstrates high organizational prowess, handling intricate timelines and diverse vendor teams with ease. They’ve received numerous industry accolades, including induction into The Knot Hall of Fame. Whether it’s a grand ballroom reception at the Hilton Netherland Plaza or a tented outdoor ceremony, their work is characterized by flawless execution and focus on guest comfort.
Pricing: Based on their current pricing, the minimum investment for their full-service “The Experience” package is $13,000. Get a custom quote based on your desired level of support by reaching out through their website.
Why we love them: Elisa MacKenzie brings expertise and calm to the planning process that’s invaluable. We appreciate their ability to handle multicultural celebrations, ensuring diverse traditions are honored and integrated smoothly. Their extensive awards and positive client reviews highlight their reliability and dedication to excellence.
Connect with them: Follow @eleganteventsbyelisa on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
3. Amber Hansen Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Amber Hansen Events / Amber Hansen
Amber Hansen founded her eponymous company with a mission to bring romance and rigorous organization to the Cincinnati wedding market. With a keen eye for design and a heart for storytelling, Hansen has carved out a distinct space for couples who value both aesthetics and peace of mind. Her background allows her to navigate event logistics while maintaining focus on the emotional core of the celebration. She’s known for her warm, personable approach, treating every client’s wedding as if it were her own—making her a favorite among couples who want a planner that feels like a trusted friend.
Specialty/niche: Amber Hansen Events specializes in creating romantic, highly organized weddings for couples in Cincinnati and beyond. She’s developed a strong niche for both local celebrations and destination weddings, offering service that’s as much about alleviating stress as beautiful design. Her approach is deeply personal, ensuring every event reflects the unique love story of the couple. She’s particularly skilled at managing event flow in diverse settings, from downtown Cincinnati hotels to sprawling countryside estates.
Notable projects or signature style: Amber’s style is often described as elegant, timeless, and effortlessly modern. Her portfolio features visually stunning weddings with keen attention to detail in everything from floral arrangements to table settings. She excels at creating “moments” within an event—whether it’s a perfectly timed champagne toast or a breathtaking ceremony backdrop. Her work often incorporates soft, romantic color palettes and lush textures, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury.
Pricing: Day-of coordination starts at $3,100 and partial wedding planning services start at $5,500, according to their website. Get in touch with them directly for a custom quote.
Why we love them: We love Amber Hansen Events for the genuine care Amber puts into her work. She understands that a wedding is a significant emotional and financial investment, and she treats every event with the respect it deserves. Clients consistently rate Amber 5 stars, specifically praising her attention to the “little details” that guests remember. Reviews highlight her calm presence and ability to lead vendor teams effectively, with couples noting she goes above and beyond to reduce stress.
Connect with them: Follow @amberhansenevents on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
4. Leigh & Co Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Leigh & Co Events / Brianne Pittenger
Brianne Pittenger founded Leigh & Co Events with a vision to make wedding planning approachable, fun, and impeccably organized. Her background in the industry has equipped her with skills to handle the multifaceted nature of event production, from initial design concepts to final execution. Pittenger leads a team dedicated to taking stress out of the planning process, allowing couples to truly enjoy their engagement. She’s known for her friendly, down-to-earth demeanor, which puts clients at ease, while her sharp organizational skills ensure every detail is accounted for.
Specialty/niche: Leigh & Co Events offers a comprehensive suite of services ranging from full-service planning to day-of coordination and design. They’ve carved out a niche for couples who want a modern, fresh approach without sacrificing traditional elements of hospitality. They’re particularly skilled at taking a client’s initial ideas and transforming them into a cohesive, beautifully executed event. Their focus is on creating personalized experiences that feel true to the couple, whether that involves a quirky theme or a classic, elegant affair.
Notable projects or signature style: The team at Leigh & Co Events is known for a modern, fresh aesthetic that incorporates current trends while remaining timeless. Their portfolio showcases a variety of weddings, from intimate gatherings in unique Cincinnati venues to large-scale celebrations in grand ballrooms. They’re experts at managing the many moving parts of a wedding day. Their design work often features clean lines, beautiful florals, and thoughtful details that tie the entire event together, creating a visual narrative that’s both stunning and personal.
Pricing: Their Wedding Day Management package starts at $1,650, partial planning starts at $2,750, and full-service planning starts at $10,000. Get in contact with them for a personalized proposal based on your needs
Why we love them: We love Leigh & Co Events for their approachable and friendly demeanor. Brianne Pittenger has built a team that feels like a supportive friend who just happens to be an expert in wedding planning. Customer reviews describe the team’s execution as “flawless,” with many couples appreciating their thoroughness and valuable vendor guidance. Testimonials frequently mention that their friendly support makes the entire process enjoyable.
Connect with them: Follow @leighandcoevents on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
5. Glamorous Weddings
Company name and founder/lead planner: Glamorous Weddings / Michelle Miskell
Michelle Miskell founded Glamorous Weddings with a clear vision: to bring high-end, luxurious event experiences to the Cincinnati and Dayton areas. With a background emphasizing meticulous attention to detail and a passion for grand celebrations, Miskell has established herself as a leader in the luxury wedding market. Her team is dedicated to the idea that every wedding should be a showstopper, filled with personal touches and breathtaking design elements. Miskell’s leadership style is energetic and detail-oriented, ensuring every aspect of the event is executed with precision.
Specialty/niche: Glamorous Weddings serves the greater Cincinnati and Dayton areas, focusing on delivering high-end, glamorous experiences. They specialize in weddings that require a high level of production value, including intricate lighting, elaborate floral designs, and custom decor. Their niche is the couple who wants a “wow” factor—a wedding that feels like a celebrity event. They offer various planning packages, but their sweet spot is full-service planning where they can control aesthetic and logistical quality from start to finish.
Notable projects or signature style: As the name implies, Glamorous Weddings creates events that sparkle. Their portfolio features weddings with lavish decor, elegant settings, and unmistakable luxury. Michelle Miskell is known for creating a cohesive look running through every element of the wedding, ensuring the design narrative is clear and impactful. Their work often includes rich textures, bold colors, and statement pieces like crystal chandeliers or custom dance floors. Whether it’s a black-tie affair in a downtown hotel or a lavish tented reception, the result is always polished and spectacular.
Pricing: Pricing for their services begins at $2,400. Reach out to them for a custom quote based on your vision.
Why we love them: We love Glamorous Weddings for their passion and enthusiasm. Michelle Miskell brings high energy to the planning process, which keeps couples excited and engaged. Reviews consistently highlight Michelle’s professionalism and meticulous nature, with clients noting that “no detail is left out.” Vendors and couples alike praise the team’s ability to execute complex reception designs seamlessly.
Connect with them: Follow @glamorousweddingsdaytonoh on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
Finding the right Cincinnati planner
Choosing a wedding planner is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make during the planning process. With so many talented professionals in Cincinnati, narrowing down your options can feel overwhelming. You need someone who not only understands your vision but also has the local expertise to execute it flawlessly. Here are five practical tips to help you find the perfect match for your Cincinnati wedding.
1. Test their knowledge of neighborhood logistics
Cincinnati is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own logistical quirks that can make or break your wedding timeline. A planner who knows the difference between load-in at a historic venue in Over-the-Rhine versus a modern space in The Banks is invaluable. Don’t just ask if they know the city—test their knowledge with specific questions.
Ask them: “What is the parking situation like in OTR on a Saturday night?” or “How do you handle guest transportation if our ceremony is in Hyde Park but the reception is downtown?” A planner with real local experience will answer immediately and offer alternatives, such as utilizing the Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar line or securing a private shuttle service to navigate narrow streets. Vague responses like “we’ll figure it out” are red flags. You want someone who has already solved these problems for previous clients.
2. Check how they navigate peak season conflicts
Cincinnati hosts several major events that can monopolize hotels and jam traffic, such as the Flying Pig Marathon Weekend, BLINK, and Bengals games at Paycor Stadium. If your wedding falls on one of these weekends, you need a planner who knows how to navigate the chaos and protect your guest experience.
Ask prospective planners: “How do you handle vendor availability and hotel blocks during major city events like the Flying Pig?” The right answer includes specific strategies: booking blocks 12 months out, arranging alternative transportation routes to avoid bridge traffic, and securing vendors before they get snapped up by corporate events. Follow up by asking for an example of a wedding they managed during a high-traffic weekend. Their past problem-solving reveals their real expertise.
3. Evaluate their vendor network depth
The Cincinnati wedding industry is a tight-knit community where relationships matter. The best planners have deep relationships with the city’s top florists, caterers, and rental companies. This network is your safety net; if a vendor cancels last minute, a well-connected planner can make one phone call and fix it.
Ask: “Which local caterers and rental companies do you work with regularly, and why?” Strong planners will name specific vendors and explain the relationship. For example, they might say, “We work with [Vendor X] because they have the best load-in crew for historic venues.” Then ask: “What happens if they are booked?” The depth of their backup list matters. You want a planner who is respected by other vendors, as that chemistry translates to better service and smoother problem-solving on your big day.
4. Review their portfolio for this city specifically
A portfolio filled with beautiful images is great, but you need to see evidence that they can work in this city’s specific environments. Cincinnati has a mix of industrial lofts, historic ballrooms, and outdoor parks, each presenting unique challenges regarding lighting, acoustics, and layout.
Don’t just ask for their portfolio—ask for events specifically in Cincinnati neighborhoods relevant to your event. Request three to five examples similar to yours in size and style. During the review, ask: “What was the biggest challenge in executing this event?” Strong planners will cite city-specific obstacles, like navigating the narrow streets of Mt. Adams or managing noise ordinances near residential areas, and explain their solutions. This proves they have navigated Cincinnati’s landscape successfully.
5. Measure budget realism for this market
Wedding costs in Cincinnati are generally lower than coastal cities, but they can still vary wildly depending on the venue and guest count. A good planner will be honest with you about what your budget can achieve in this specific market and won’t promise the moon on a shoestring.
Share your budget range and ask: “What is realistic for a wedding of this size in Cincinnati with this budget?” Good planners will be honest: “For a downtown venue with a guest count of 150, expect [range]. Here’s where we can save: utilizing a unique Cincinnati wedding venue instead of a traditional hotel ballroom, or choosing a Friday date.” They should offer realistic cost tiers with concrete examples. Warning sign: Promising everything without discussing tradeoffs. You need a partner who can help you maximize your budget within the reality of the local market.
Planning a wedding in Cincinnati
Successful event planning is all about timing and logistics. Cincinnati offers a beautiful backdrop for weddings, but like any river city, it has its own set of rules that you need to respect to ensure a smooth event.
Weather patterns and seasons:
Cincinnati experiences all four seasons vividly. Summers can be hot and humid, especially in the river valley, so if you’re planning an outdoor July wedding, ensure your venue has strong air conditioning or tent fans. Spring is beautiful but unpredictable with rain; always have a “Plan B” for outdoor ceremonies. October is often considered the “golden month” for weddings here, offering crisp air and stunning foliage, but venues book up fast.
Traffic and transportation:
The city is connected by several bridges across the Ohio River, and traffic on I-71 and I-75 can be heavy, especially during rush hour or if there’s construction on the Brent Spence Bridge. When planning your timeline, pad travel times between venues, particularly if you’re crossing the river between Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. The Cincinnati Bell Connector (streetcar) is a great option for guests moving between OTR and The Banks. For guests flying in, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) serves 50+ destinations and offers various available transit services including hotel shuttles, rideshare, and public transit.
Major events to avoid:
Cincinnati loves a festival, and while they’re fun, they can cause logistical nightmares for weddings due to road closures and hotel scarcity. Check the Visit Cincy events calendar when selecting your date. Be wary of booking during:
- The Flying Pig Marathon (May): Massive road closures throughout the city.
- Oktoberfest Zinzinnati (September): The largest Oktoberfest in the US; downtown hotels fill up instantly.
- BLINK (October, biannual): A massive light and art festival that draws millions; traffic is gridlocked.
- Cincinnati Music Festival (July): Heavy riverfront congestion.
- Home Bengals Games (Fall/Winter): Avoid downtown venues on game days if possible.
Marriage license requirements:
Ohio residents wishing to marry in Ohio must apply in the county where either applicant resides. For Cincinnati weddings, you’ll apply at the Hamilton County Probate Court. There’s no waiting period in Ohio. You can receive your license and have your ceremony on the very same day. The marriage license fee in Cincinnati is $45.00 and it will expire after a period of 60 days.
FAQs: wedding planning in Cincinnati
When should I hire a Cincinnati wedding planner?
We recommend hiring your planner at least 9-12 months in advance. Cincinnati has a tight wedding season due to the weather, and top planners book up quickly for prime dates in May, June, September, and October. If you’re planning around a major city event, 12-18 months is safer.
How much does a wedding planner cost in Cincinnati?
Costs vary based on experience and service level, but you can typically expect to budget 15-20% of your overall wedding budget for a full-service planner. Partial planning or day-of coordination packages will be lower, often ranging from $1,500 to $3,500 depending on the complexity of the event.
Do I need a planner if my venue has a coordinator?
Yes. A venue coordinator works for the venue; their job is to ensure the lights work, the food is served (if in-house), and the building doesn’t burn down. An independent wedding planner works for you. They manage your timeline, coordinate all your outside vendors (florist, DJ, photographer), and handle personal details that the venue coordinator will not touch.
Why hire a local Cincinnati planner versus bringing someone from out of town?
Local knowledge is irreplaceable. A Cincinnati planner knows which florists source the freshest blooms, which caterers handle dietary restrictions best, and exactly how long it takes to get from a ceremony in Mt. Adams to a reception in OTR during rush hour. They also have established relationships with vendors that can lead to better pricing or priority booking.
Great events start with standout spaces—and the people who bring them to life
Your wedding is a reflection of your story, and in a city as dynamic as Cincinnati, you have endless possibilities to tell that story. The planners on this list are experts at harnessing that energy. They take the raw potential of a wedding venue and refine it into a seamless, memorable celebration. Whether you choose a stunning mansion venue or a classic ballroom, these professionals ensure that the logistics never overshadow the joy.
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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