Top 6 Wedding Planners in Louisiana
-
Editor & Publisher -
Client Services Leader
- May 15, 2026
- 18 min read
- Events
Source: Peerspace
With its rich cultural tapestry—jazz-filled streets, Creole-inspired cuisine, moss-draped oak trees, and centuries-old architecture—it’s no wonder couples flock to Louisiana to say “I do.” Whether you’re dreaming of a second line parade through the French Quarter, an intimate ceremony beneath live oaks, or a modern loft reception in the Warehouse District, Louisiana delivers a wedding backdrop unlike anywhere else in the country.
That vibrant event culture means you’ll find a deep bench of talented wedding planners who truly understand what makes a Louisiana celebration sing. These professionals know how to navigate the state’s unique logistics while weaving in the local flavor that makes your wedding feel authentic to you.
We’ve carefully vetted the planners on this list to bring you a curated selection of Louisiana’s finest. Each one has been evaluated for quality, reputation, and the kind of local expertise that makes a real difference on your big day.
How we curate our list
Choosing a wedding planner is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during the planning process. We take that seriously, which is why every planner on this list has been selected based on meaningful criteria.
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 across the board.
- Industry recognition and awards: We look for planners with accolades from respected organizations and wedding publications that signal excellence in the field.
- Professional credentials and associations: Active membership in industry groups, ongoing education, and verified business operations are key indicators we track.
Every planner featured here meets high standards for professionalism, creativity, and client satisfaction. We regularly update this list to reflect Louisiana’s dynamic wedding scene, so check back often for the latest recommendations.
Best wedding planners in Louisiana
Here are the six wedding planners in Louisiana who stood out in our research—each bringing something special to the table for couples planning their big day.
1. Pennywell Events LLC
Company name and founder/lead planner: Pennywell Events LLC / Alicia LaHaie
Specialty/niche: Pennywell Events LLC is a New Orleans wedding planner offering full planning, day-of coordination, and wedding consulting. The company serves both local and destination couples throughout Louisiana, with particular expertise in New Orleans-area celebrations. Their inclusive approach ensures every couple feels welcomed and celebrated.
Notable projects or signature style: With more than a decade of wedding planning experience in New Orleans and carefully cultivated vendor connections, Pennywell Events has established itself as a top choice for both local and destination couples. Alicia’s background in the NYC fashion industry gives her a sharp eye for design and detail. Couples consistently praise her organizational skills, responsiveness, and ability to ensure smooth execution on the wedding day. The company holds WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards and The Knot Best of Weddings honors.
Pricing: Full wedding planning services range from $6,500 to $10,000; partial packages range from $5,000-$6,500; and event management ranges from $3,500-5,000. They also offer a one-hour wedding consulting call for $150. Get in contact directly through their website to request a custom quote based on your needs.
Why we love them: Pennywell Events prides itself on being an inclusive vendor, advocating for every couple’s vision without judgment. That philosophy, combined with Alicia’s fashion-industry polish and deep New Orleans roots, makes this team a standout. Clients consistently praise her exceptional organizational skills, strong vendor relationships, and highly attentive support, particularly for destination weddings. The team delivers a stress-free planning experience, with testimonials highlighting that Alicia is “absolutely incredible to work with” and highly responsive throughout the process.
Connect with them: Follow @pennywellevents on Instagram.
2. Lynelle’s Sophisticated Decor
Company name and founder/lead planner: Lynelle’s Sophisticated Decor / Lynelle Dickerson
Specialty/niche: Based in Baton Rouge, Lynelle’s Sophisticated Decor brings a design-forward approach to wedding planning with a strong emphasis on decor, styling, and visual storytelling. The company covers everything from elegant weddings to birthday parties, baby showers, and business meetings—with a team that can organize any event. Their motto—”You Ask… We Deliver!!”—speaks to their client-first philosophy.
Notable projects or signature style: Lynelle and her team believe every event should have its own personality and charm, going the extra mile to incorporate unique and innovative ideas. Her portfolio showcases bold, sophisticated design choices that transform ordinary venues into extraordinary settings. Whether it’s an opulent ballroom setup or an intimate gathering, Lynelle’s design sensibility ensures every visual element tells the couple’s story. Her offerings include 360 photo booths, custom signage, balloon installations, and curated tableware—giving couples a true one-stop design experience.
Pricing: Reach out to the company directly through their website for a personalized quote.
Why we love them: Lynelle brings a decorator’s eye to the planning process, which means your wedding won’t just run smoothly—it’ll look incredible. For couples in the Baton Rouge area who want a planner deeply invested in the visual impact of their celebration, she’s a fantastic choice.
Connect with them: Follow @lynelle_sophisticated_decor on Instagram and @lsdecor1 on TikTok.
3. Delia Jeffcoat Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Delia Jeffcoat Events / Delia Jeffcoat
Specialty/niche: Delia Jeffcoat Events crafts bespoke weddings and events—from intimate outdoor ceremonies to grand celebrations in Shreveport and beyond. The company serves couples across Louisiana, Texas, and Arkansas, offering full planning, partial planning, and event design services. Delia prides herself on careful attention to detail and a calm, reassuring manner throughout the planning experience.
Notable projects or signature style: With over 10 years in the Shreveport-Bossier area, Delia has become a trusted luxury wedding planner. Her work has been featured in Wedding Style Magazine, and her Instagram highlights features in Style Me Pretty, Inside Weddings, and Southern Bride. One client noted that Delia “took on planning and coordinating our wedding along with a total change of venue just two weeks away from the big day,” showcasing her crisis management skills under pressure.
Pricing: Investments vary based on your unique needs. Contact Delia directly through her website to request a custom quote.
Why we love them: Delia takes the time to get to know each couple, understanding their vision and what matters most. For couples in the Shreveport-Bossier area and North Louisiana, Delia is a go-to choice for luxury weddings with heart. Clients consistently praise her exceptional ability to handle last-minute changes and high-pressure situations with composure. Testimonials highlight her flawless day-of execution, with one client noting she “executed everything flawlessly, allowing my daughter to fully immerse herself in the joy of the moment without a single worry.”
Connect with them: Follow @deliajeffcoatevents on Instagram.
4. Elyse Jennings Weddings
Company name and founder/lead planner: Elyse Jennings Weddings / Elyse Jennings
Specialty/niche: Recognized by Martha Stewart, Over the Moon, and Southern Living as a top planner in the nation, Elyse Jennings specializes in both the design and logistics for local and destination weddings in New Orleans and beyond. Established in 2011, the company designs weddings that are custom yet traditional, timeless yet modern.
Notable projects or signature style: For more than 13 years, Elyse has been bringing love stories to life in New Orleans. One of her most impressive projects involved a wedding in the New Orleans Museum of Art’s Sculpture Garden—a blank-canvas space with no power, water, or bathrooms—where her team built the entire infrastructure from scratch for 350 guests. She’s earned Martha Stewart Weddings Top Planner, Southern Living Top Planner, and The Knot’s Best of Weddings and Hall of Fame honors. Clients praise her crisis management—when one couple’s floral vendor cancelled with 30 minutes’ notice, Elyse found an alternate source that delivered beautifully.
Pricing: Elyse works with couples who have a wedding budget minimum of $200,000. Contact Elyse directly through her website for full pricing details on their two levels of planning service.
Why we love them: Elyse doesn’t just coordinate weddings—she creates immersive, heartfelt experiences. Her national recognition, deep New Orleans expertise, and ability to transform challenging blank-canvas venues into breathtaking celebrations make her one of the most sought-after planners in the state. The team is exceptionally professional, warm, and deeply understands each couple’s vision. Testimonials highlight a stress-free planning experience, with one client stating, “I have never in my LIFE been so impressed with a business… HANDS DOWN the greatest experience.”
Connect with them: Follow @elysejenningsweddings on Instagram.
5. Lavishly Chic Designs Events + Weddings
Company name and founder/lead planner: Lavishly Chic Designs Events + Weddings / Delia King
Specialty/niche: Lavishly Chic Designs Events + Weddings is a premier wedding and event management company based in New Orleans—with a Gucci bag always packed and ready to travel. With a degree in hospitality management, Delia King brings a styled approach to planning that is both academic and hands-on. The company specializes in creating culturally rich, luxury wedding experiences for both local and destination couples.
Notable projects or signature style: Delia has worked on the most significant fundraising gala in New Orleans history, managing the VIP experience for Brad Pitt’s Make It Right Foundation event. Her wedding portfolio includes a stunning celebration at the New Orleans Museum of Art that was featured on Black Bride. Every couple—whether the event has 50 guests or 500—receives the same luxury experience, custom-tailored to their tastes. Her deep knowledge of New Orleans culture and traditions infuses every celebration with authenticity.
Pricing: Pricing depends on the size and scope of your event as well as your desired level of planning support. Contact Delia through her website to set up a 30-minute consultation.
Why we love them: Delia’s philosophy is rooted in making every client feel worthy of a luxury experience. Her hospitality management background, infectious energy, and deep love for New Orleans culture make her a planner who doesn’t just organize your wedding—she elevates it. Clients consistently praise the exceptional décor and design execution, frequently describing it as “incredible” and visually impressive. Testimonials highlight the staff’s professionalism and ability to create a warm, personalized experience where clients feel “like family,” though it’s worth noting a few isolated reviews mention occasional organizational hiccups.
Connect with them: Follow @lcdevents on Instagram.
6. Sara Lasher Weddings & Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Sara Lasher Weddings & Events / Sara Lasher
Specialty/niche: Sara Lasher Weddings & Events is a Louisiana-based wedding planning company that brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to celebrations across the state. Sara leads the team alongside executive admin and lead coordinator Jaden Ross, with a focus on creating personalized wedding experiences that reflect each couple’s unique story. The company has been featured on Style Me Pretty, Wedding Chicks, Grey Likes Weddings, and Magnolia Rouge.
Notable projects or signature style: Sara’s approach is all about listening closely to what couples want and executing with precision. Her portfolio showcases a range of wedding styles—elegant and classic, rustic and relaxed, modern and bold—demonstrating her versatility as a planner. Her kudos page features glowing testimonials from couples who praise her organizational skills, creative problem-solving, and calm demeanor on the wedding day. That adaptability makes her equally at home with a grand New Orleans ballroom reception and a laid-back countryside celebration.
Pricing: Month-of coordination starts at $2,500. Full service planning packages are customized for each client. Inquire directly through their website to request a custom quote.
Why we love them: Sara’s client-first philosophy means you’ll never feel like just another wedding on the calendar. Her ability to adapt to different styles and budgets while maintaining a high standard of quality makes her a versatile choice for Louisiana couples. Clients praise not just Sara but her entire supporting staff for their flexibility, adaptability, and consistent excellence across hundreds of events. Testimonials highlight the team’s incredible support, with one peer noting she has “0 negatives about her and her team!”
Connect with them: Follow @saralasherweddings on Instagram.
Choosing a Louisiana wedding planner
With so many talented professionals across the state, narrowing down your options can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to evaluate planners and find the one who’s the best fit for your celebration.
1. Test their knowledge of Louisiana’s regional logistics
Don’t just ask if they know Louisiana—test their knowledge. Ask specific questions: “What’s the parking situation in the French Quarter on a Saturday evening?” or “Which Baton Rouge venues have noise restrictions after 10 p.m.?” A planner with real local experience will answer immediately and offer alternatives. Vague responses like “we’ll figure it out” are red flags. Ask them to walk you through how they’d handle guest transportation between the Garden District and the Warehouse District—their answer reveals whether they’ve actually managed events across Louisiana.
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 Louisiana’s specific events by name—Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, Essence Festival, French Quarter Fest—without you prompting them. Follow up with: “Can you show me an example of a wedding you planned the same weekend as a major festival?”
3. Assess their crisis management for weather challenges
Ask about backup plans: “What happens if a hurricane warning hits the week of our event?” Experienced Louisiana 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? Generic “we’re flexible” responses indicate they haven’t stress-tested their process in Louisiana’s real conditions.
4. 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 about this planner. That chemistry translates to better service and problem-solving on your event day.
5. Review their portfolio for Louisiana specifically
Don’t just ask for their portfolio—ask for events specifically in Louisiana or the neighborhoods relevant to your wedding. Request three to five examples similar to yours in event type, size, and budget range. During portfolio review, ask: “What was the biggest challenge in executing this event?” Strong planners will cite Louisiana-specific obstacles and explain solutions. Follow up by asking: “May I contact this client?” Real references reveal whether the planner’s Louisiana expertise made a tangible difference.
Planning a wedding in Louisiana
Wedding planning is all about timing, and Louisiana has some unique factors you’ll want to keep in mind.
Weather patterns and best seasons: Louisiana’s climate features hot, humid summers tempered by frequent afternoon thunder showers, alternating with mild winters. The state is subject to tropical storms, and the hurricane season extends for six months, from June through November. The most popular months for weddings are October through May, when temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor celebrations. Spring and fall offer the best balance of pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. For detailed climate data, check the National Weather Service New Orleans/Baton Rouge forecast office, and monitor the National Hurricane Center during storm season.
Tourism peaks and when to avoid: Louisiana—especially New Orleans—has a packed events calendar that can drive up venue and vendor prices significantly. Louisiana is often called the Festival Capital of the World, hosting more than 400 events of every kind annually throughout the state. Check the Explore Louisiana official festivals and events calendar and the New Orleans official tourism events calendar when choosing your date. Plan around these major events:
- Mardi Gras (February/March): Massive demand for hotels, venues, and vendors
- Jazz Fest (late April/early May): Two weekends of music draw hundreds of thousands of visitors
- Essence Festival (July): One of the largest annual gatherings of Black culture and music
- French Quarter Festival (April): A major free music festival in the heart of the city
- Sugar Bowl (January): College football brings a surge of visitors
- Voodoo Music + Arts Experience (October): A popular music festival in City Park
- Tales of the Cocktail (July): A major hospitality industry event
Traffic and transportation: New Orleans traffic can be unpredictable, especially during events and on weekends in the French Quarter. Build extra time into your wedding day timeline for guest transportation. Consider hiring shuttle services for guests moving between ceremony and reception venues.
Permits and regulations: If you’re planning a second line parade (a beloved New Orleans wedding tradition), you’ll need a permit from the city. You’ll need to fill out two applications: the Master Special Event Permit Application and the Parade Permit Application (Supplement C), and the applications must be submitted at least 15 days prior to the event, though the City of New Orleans recommends filing 90 days in advance. Visit the City of New Orleans parade and special event permit page for official application details. For marriage license requirements, both parties must be present and present all required documents at your parish’s Clerk of Court office. You need to apply for a license if the marriage is being held in the state, and you must apply within 30 days of the wedding date. Review the Louisiana Department of Health’s marriage license requirements for the full list of required documents. Some neighborhoods also have noise ordinances that affect reception end times.
FAQs: wedding planning in Louisiana
When should I hire a Louisiana wedding planner?
Aim to hire your planner at least eight to 12 months before your wedding date, especially if you’re planning during peak season (October through May) or around major events like Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest. Popular planners book up quickly, so the earlier you start, the better your options.
How much does a wedding planner cost in Louisiana?
Costs vary widely depending on the planner’s experience, your event size, and the level of service you need. Day-of coordination packages can start around $750-$1,500, while full-service planning typically ranges from $2,500-$5,000 and up. Many planners charge a flat fee rather than a percentage of your overall budget. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of what’s included.
Do I need a planner if my venue has a coordinator?
A venue coordinator focuses on the property’s needs—making sure the space is set up correctly and enforcing the venue’s policies. An independent wedding planner works exclusively for you, managing your entire vendor team, handling design decisions, creating your timeline, and advocating for your interests. The two roles complement each other but aren’t interchangeable.
Why hire a local Louisiana planner versus bringing someone from out of town?
Local planners bring irreplaceable knowledge of the state’s vendor landscape, permit requirements, weather patterns, and cultural traditions. They have established relationships with caterers, florists, photographers, and venues that translate to better pricing and smoother communication. They also understand Louisiana-specific details—like how to organize a second line, which venues flood during heavy rain, and how to navigate Mardi Gras season logistics.
Great weddings start with standout spaces—and the people who bring them to life
Louisiana offers endless possibilities for couples who want a wedding that’s as unique as their love story. The planners on this list know how to harness the state’s incredible energy—its music, food, architecture, and culture—while ensuring every detail reflects your personal vision. Whether you’re planning an intimate courtyard ceremony in the French Quarter or a grand celebration on a sprawling estate, the right planner and the right Louisiana wedding venue make all the difference.
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. It helps us keep our recommendations accurate, balanced, and genuinely useful for every reader.
