Top 6 Wedding Planners in Raleigh
-
Content Marketing Manager -
Editor & Publisher
- January 30, 2026
- 21 min read
- Events
With a vibrant cultural scene and a reputation for warm hospitality, it’s no wonder that Raleigh has become a premier destination for weddings in the Southeast. The City of Oaks is a bustling hub for events, boasting a personality that balances historic roots with a rapidly growing, innovative spirit.
No matter what sort of Raleigh wedding venue you envision — an industrial-chic space in the Warehouse District, a stately ceremony at a North Hills manor, or a celebration amidst the lush expanses of Dorothea Dix Park — Raleigh offers a diverse canvas for couples to paint their love stories.
However, the very growth that makes Raleigh exciting also makes it competitive. The best venues book up well over a year in advance, and navigating the logistics of a city on the rise requires a professional touch. The right planner handles the complex web of permits, timelines, and vendor coordination, so that you can focus on what truly matters: celebrating with your favorite people.
We curated this list of the top six wedding planners in Raleigh based on their local expertise, creative vision, and proven ability to transform your ideas into unforgettable experiences. Whether you need a master of logistics for a 300-person ballroom affair or a creative visionary for an intimate garden party setting, this list represents the gold standard of Raleigh’s event industry.
How we curate our list
Finding the right professional to trust with your wedding day is a significant decision. We have carefully selected the planners on this list based on a rigorous set of criteria to ensure they represent the best of Raleigh’s event industry. We focus exclusively on verifiable data to ensure our recommendations are grounded in fact rather than opinion.
Our selection criteria include:
- Client reviews across multiple platforms: We analyze feedback from couples on The Knot, WeddingWire, Google, and social media to ensure that clients are consistently satisfied with their investment.
- Industry recognition and awards: We look for planners who have been acknowledged by their peers and leading publications for their excellence, innovation, and contribution to the local market.
- Professional credentials and associations: Active membership in industry groups, ongoing education, and verified business operations are often held by our planners, signaling a dedication to the craft and ethical business practices.
Best wedding planners in Raleigh
1. Chad Biggs Event Planning & Design
Company name and founder/lead planner: Chad Biggs Event Planning & Design / Chad Biggs
Specialty/niche: Chad Biggs Event Planning & Design specializes in creating luxurious, high-end weddings that feel effortless and timeless. They focus on full-service planning and design, catering to couples who want a cohesive aesthetic woven throughout every element of their day. Their niche lies in transforming traditional Southern elegance into modern, sophisticated experiences, often working with clients who prioritize exceptional floral design and seamless logistical execution.
Notable projects or signature style: The signature style of Chad Biggs is defined by abundance and precision. Their events often feature lavish floral installations, custom lighting design, and meticulously curated table settings that create a “wow” factor the moment guests enter the room. One notable aspect of their work is the ability to balance grand scale with intimate details. Whether it is a tented reception on a private estate or a ballroom transformation in downtown Raleigh, the team ensures that the flow of the event feels natural. Their portfolio showcases a mastery of color palettes, ranging from classic whites and greens to bold, dramatic jewel tones, always executed with a polished, editorial look.
Pricing: Packages start at $2,000 and pricing scales depending on your needs. Get in touch to receive a tailored quote.
Why we love them: We love Chad Biggs Event Planning & Design for their unwavering commitment to the guest experience. Chad and his team understand that a visually stunning wedding must also be comfortable and enjoyable for everyone in attendance. Their reputation in the Raleigh market is built on strong relationships with top-tier vendors, ensuring that their clients have access to the best resources available. They bring a calm, reassuring presence to the planning process, guiding couples through complex decisions with expertise and grace.
Connect with them: Follow @chad_biggs_event_planning on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
2. Emily Katherine Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Emily Katherine Events / Emily Katherine
Specialty/niche: Emily Katherine Events specializes in “weddings for all,” with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and personalized storytelling. They excel at planning celebrations that break away from cookie-cutter traditions, focusing instead on what truly matters to the couple. Their niche includes eco-friendly weddings and managing logistics for non-traditional venues, making them a go-to choice for couples who want a celebration that reflects their unique values and personalities.
Notable projects or signature style: The signature style of Emily Katherine Events is authentic, joyful, and logistically sound. They are not bound by a single aesthetic; instead, their portfolio reflects the diverse personalities of their clients. You might see a colorful, whimsical outdoor ceremony one weekend and a chic, minimalist industrial reception the next. They are particularly skilled at incorporating personal touches, such as family heirlooms or cultural traditions, into the event design in meaningful ways. Their work often involves complex coordination for outdoor and off-the-beaten-path venues. They are experts at bringing infrastructure to blank-canvas spaces, ensuring that even the most rustic wedding venue locations have the necessary amenities for a smooth event.
Pricing: To learn more about custom pricing for coordination and full-service packages, submit a form on their website.
Why we love them: We love Emily Katherine Events for their genuine dedication to inclusivity and sustainability. Emily and her team go above and beyond to create a welcoming environment for every couple, regardless of background or orientation. Their practical approach to planning helps couples navigate the often-overwhelming world of wedding logistics with confidence. They are champions of reducing event waste and often guide clients toward eco-conscious choices without sacrificing style or comfort.
Connect with them: Follow @ekevents on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
3. Lily Rose Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Lily Rose Events / Becky Chapman
Specialty/niche: Lily Rose Events is a boutique planning firm that specializes in bringing a romantic and whimsical touch to wedding coordination. Becky Chapman focuses on creating stress-free experiences for couples who want to be involved in the fun parts of planning but need a professional to handle the heavy lifting. Their niche covers everything from intimate gathering venues to larger celebrations, with a particular talent for managing the flow of the wedding day to ensure everything runs on time.
Notable projects or signature style: The signature style of Lily Rose Events is soft, romantic, and detail-oriented. Their events often feature delicate color palettes, thoughtful signage, and personalized favors that make guests feel appreciated. Becky has a knack for timing and flow, ensuring that transitions between the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception feel organic rather than rushed. Their portfolio demonstrates a strong ability to work with a variety of venue types across the Triangle. Whether coordinating a church ceremony followed by a country club reception or an all-in-one garden venue, the team ensures that the logistics are invisible to the guests.
Pricing: Event management starts at $3,000 and is ideal for couples who want day-of support. Custom design and coordination starts at $4,000 and full-service planning starts at $6,500. Reach out for pricing tailor to your needs.
Why we love them: We love Lily Rose Events for the personal connection Becky builds with her clients. She acts not just as a planner, but as a confidant and advocate throughout the process. Her approach is warm and approachable, making her an excellent fit for couples who might feel intimidated by the wedding industry. The team’s attention to the timeline is impeccable, ensuring that couples actually get to eat their dinner and dance with their friends.
Connect with them: Follow @lilyroseevents on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
4. Significant Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Significant Events / Haines Jones
Specialty/niche: Significant Events is a premier planning company known for executing large-scale, complex weddings with military precision. Haines Jones specializes in full-service production where logistics are just as important as design. Their niche includes managing events with high guest counts, multi-day celebrations, and weddings requiring extensive vendor coordination. They are the team you call when you need a master conductor for a sophisticated, seamless orchestra of an event.
Notable projects or signature style: The signature style of Significant Events is classic, refined, and flawlessly organized. Their weddings often take place in Raleigh’s most prestigious ballroom venues and historic estates, characterized by elegant table scapes and traditional design elements that never go out of style. Haines is known for her ability to manage moving parts, from transportation fleets for hundreds of guests to coordinating entertainment lineups that keep the energy high. Their projects often involve transforming spaces to improve flow and functionality, such as expert tenting logistics and power distribution for live bands.
Pricing: Specific pricing is not publicly available; please contact the company directly for a custom quote tailored to your event needs.
Why we love them: We love Significant Events for their experience and authority in the industry. Haines Jones brings a level of expertise that puts even the most anxious parents and couples at ease. When you hire Significant Events, you are investing in peace of mind. Their ability to anticipate problems before they arise and solve them discreetly is unmatched. They prioritize the comfort of the guests and the sanity of the couple, making them a pillar of the Raleigh wedding community.
Connect with them: Follow @significant_events_ on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
5. Timeless Love Weddings
Company name and founder/lead planner: Timeless Love Weddings / Jaclyn Hamilton
Specialty/niche: Timeless Love Weddings focuses on creating heartfelt, enduring celebrations that honor the couple’s love story. Jaclyn Hamilton specializes in wedding management and partial planning, making her an ideal partner for organized couples who have a vision but need professional guidance to execute it. Their niche is “timeless” romance—creating events that will look as beautiful in photos fifty years from now as they do today.
Notable projects or signature style: The signature style of Timeless Love Weddings is elegant, airy, and focused on emotional connection. Their events often feature classic color schemes like blush, ivory, and gold, utilizing natural light and soft floral arrangements. Jaclyn excels at creating moments of connection, structuring the timeline to allow for private vows, first looks, and meaningful toasts. Their work showcases a strong understanding of Raleigh’s venue landscape, from rustic barn venues to modern downtown loft venues. Regardless of the setting, they bring a sense of order and calm.
Pricing: The full wedding experience starts at $8,000 with a $45K minimum budget. On average, their clients spend between $500-$2,500 per guest. A la carte items such as engagement party planning and other add-ons start at $1,000 (or $650 tacked onto your chosen package).
Why we love them: We love Timeless Love Weddings for Jaclyn’s passion and organizational prowess. She treats every wedding as if it were her own, bringing a level of care and detail that clients rave about. Her communication style is clear and encouraging, which is vital during the stressful final weeks of planning. The team is known for being the first to arrive and the last to leave, ensuring that every detail, from the placement of the place cards to the packing of the gifts, is handled with care.
Connect with them: Follow @timelessloveweddings on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
6. La Fête
Company name and founder/lead planner: La Fête / Casey Harris
Specialty/niche: La Fête is a luxury event planning and design firm that specializes in bespoke, high-style weddings. Casey Harris and her team focus on creating exclusive experiences that blend Southern hospitality with global design trends. Their niche is the ultra-stylish, detail-obsessed couple who wants a wedding that feels like a curated editorial spread. They handle everything from concept development to the final farewell.
Notable projects or signature style: The signature style of La Fête is chic, modern, and sophisticated. They are known for pushing creative boundaries, using unexpected textures, bold color combinations, and custom-built structures to create unique environments. Their weddings often feature statement bars, lounge areas that rival high-end hotels, and immersive dining experiences. Their portfolio includes some of the most visually striking weddings in the Triangle area. They are experts at layering design elements—mixing velvet, acrylic, and organic florals—to create depth and interest. Whether it is a black-tie affair at a museum or a tented soirée on a private property, the La Fête touch is instantly recognizable by its polish and flair.
Pricing: Packages include creative consultation and partial planning services, weekend coordination, design & decor, and full-service planning. Get in touch through their website for pricing tailored to your specific needs.
Why we love them: We love La Fête for their fearless approach to design. Casey Harris encourages clients to take risks and make bold choices, resulting in weddings that are truly one-of-a-kind. Their team provides a concierge-level service, handling every aspect of the guest experience, including welcome gifts, transportation, and accommodations. They are trendsetters in the Raleigh market, constantly raising the bar for what a wedding can look and feel like.
Connect with them: Follow @eventsbylafete on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
Finding the right Raleigh planner
With such a talented pool of professionals in the Triangle, narrowing down your choice can feel overwhelming. However, the right planner is not just about a pretty portfolio; it is about finding someone who understands the specific pulse of this city. Here is how to evaluate if a planner is the right fit for your Raleigh wedding.
1. Test their knowledge of neighborhood logistics
Raleigh is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own logistical quirks. Don’t just ask if they know the city; test their knowledge with specific questions about the area where your venue is located. Ask them: “How do you handle parking for guests in the Warehouse District on a Saturday night?” or “Are there specific noise ordinances we need to worry about for an outdoor wedding reception venue in Historic Oakwood?”
A planner with real local experience will answer these immediately. They will know that downtown parking can be scarce during festivals and that historic neighborhoods often have strict rules about when the music must stop. If they give you vague answers like “we will figure it out,” proceed with caution. You want someone who has already solved these problems for previous clients. Ask them to walk you through how they’d handle guest transportation between a North Hills hotel and a downtown venue during rush hour—their answer reveals whether they’ve actually managed events across Raleigh or are just listing it on their website.
2. Check how they navigate peak season conflicts
Raleigh has a jam-packed event calendar that can wreak havoc on hotel blocks and traffic. Between NC State football games, the State Fair in October, and graduation weekends for the multiple universities in the area, the city can sell out months in advance. Ask prospective planners: “How do you handle vendor availability and traffic during major local events like the IBMA Bluegrass Festival or graduation weekend?”
The right answer includes specific strategies: booking hotel blocks 12 months out, arranging alternate transportation routes to avoid the PNC Arena area, and securing vendors before they are snapped up by corporate events. They should mention these specific Raleigh events by name without you prompting them. Follow up with: “Can you show me an example of an event you planned the same weekend as a major city event?” Review their solution—did they book vendors 6+ months out? Find alternative neighborhoods? Their past problem-solving reveals their real expertise.
3. Evaluate their vendor network depth
The Raleigh wedding industry is a tight-knit community. The best planners have deep relationships with the best florists, caterers, and rental companies in the Triangle. Ask: “Which Raleigh caterers and rental companies do you work with regularly, and why?” Strong planners will name 3-5 vendors per category and explain the relationship. For example, “We love working with [Caterer X] because they have a mobile kitchen that works perfectly for venues without on-site facilities.”
Then ask: “What happens if they are booked?” The depth of their backup list matters. You want a planner who can text a vendor on a Tuesday night and get a response, not someone who has to cold-call from Google. Ask for introduction calls with 2-3 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. Measure budget realism for this market
The cost of living and doing business in Raleigh has risen significantly, and wedding prices reflect that. A planner from a smaller town or a different state might not have a realistic grasp of current Triangle pricing. Share your budget range and ask: “What is realistic for a wedding of 150 guests in downtown Raleigh with this budget?”
Good planners will be honest. They might say, “For a seated dinner at a premier venue, that budget is tight. However, if we look at venues in nearby Cary or Garner, or consider a Friday date, we can make it work.” They should offer concrete examples of where your money goes in this specific market. Warning sign: Promising everything without discussing tradeoffs. Ask: “Show me two past events—one at our budget and one 50% higher. What did the extra money buy?” Their answer reveals what they actually optimize for and whether it aligns with your priorities.
5. Confirm communication style fits the pace
The Raleigh market moves fast. Venues and top vendors book up quickly, sometimes 18 months in advance. You need a planner who matches this pace. Ask: “What’s your typical response time?” and “How do you prefer to communicate?” Test this during your selection process. Note how quickly they respond to your initial inquiry.
In Raleigh’s competitive market, you need a planner who can act quickly when a vendor hold is about to expire. If you prefer texting and they only do weekly emails, or vice versa, it will cause friction. Ask about decision-making: “When do you need answers from us vs. when do you handle decisions independently?” Request a sample timeline from a past Raleigh wedding to see how they manage the flow of communication as the date gets closer.
Planning a wedding in Raleigh
Planning a wedding in Raleigh is all about timing and understanding the local environment. While the city is welcoming, non-locals often underestimate the specific logistical challenges that come with the region’s climate and rapid growth. Here are the factors you need to consider to ensure your event is a success.
- Weather patterns: Raleigh has four distinct seasons, but “summer” can stretch from May to September. The humidity in July and August is intense. If you are planning an outdoor wedding ceremony venue during these months, you absolutely need a tent with AC or a solid indoor backup plan. Consult Raleigh climate data to choose the best date; April, May, October, and early November are typically ideal.
- Traffic timing: Raleigh traffic is generally manageable compared to larger cities, but the I-440 Beltline and I-40 can become parking lots during rush hour (4:00 PM – 6:30 PM). If your ceremony and reception are at different locations, plan travel time accordingly. Consider using GoRaleigh public transit or RDU International Airport transportation services resources for guest travel planning.
- Permit requirements: If you are looking at venues in public parks like Pullen Park or Dorothea Dix Park, or considering a block party style event in a neighborhood, you will need permits from the City of Raleigh. Review the City of Raleigh Special Events Office guidelines early in your planning process. Noise ordinances are strictly enforced in residential areas after 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM.
- Neighborhood differences: Downtown offers industrial and historic vibes but requires paid parking solutions for guests. North Hills offers luxury hotels and easy walkability but lacks the historic charm. West Raleigh near the arena is spacious but requires transportation.
Major events to avoid:
Raleigh hosts several massive events that take over the city’s infrastructure. Check the Visit Raleigh events calendar to avoid these dates unless you want to pay premium prices for hotels and fight heavy traffic:
- Dreamville Festival (April): A huge music festival at Dorothea Dix Park that draws tens of thousands of visitors.
- University Graduations (Early/Mid May): With NC State, Meredith College, Shaw University, and nearby Duke and UNC, hotels fill up instantly.
- IBMA World of Bluegrass (Late September/Early October): This massive festival takes over downtown Raleigh.
- NC State Fair (Mid-October): Traffic around the fairgrounds and West Raleigh becomes a nightmare.
Expert advice:
While Raleigh is welcoming, non-locals often underestimate the “Southern pace” combined with the rapid growth of the city. Vendors are busy. Defer to your local planner’s advice on timelines. If they tell you to book a caterer 14 months out, do it.
FAQs: Raleigh wedding planning
When should I hire a Raleigh wedding planner?
We recommend hiring your planner as soon as you have your date, ideally 12 to 18 months in advance. Raleigh is a popular wedding destination, and top planners often book their prime spring and autumn dates over a year out. If you are planning a short-engagement wedding (less than 6 months), a planner is even more critical to help you secure remaining vendors quickly.
How much does an event planner cost in Raleigh?
Costs vary based on experience and service level, but you should generally expect to allocate 10-20% of your overall wedding budget to a full-service planner. For “month-of” or wedding management services, prices typically range from $2,000 to $4,000. Full-service planning can range from $5,000 to over $10,000 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 building doesn’t burn down, the food is served (if in-house), and the lights work. An independent wedding planner works for _you_. They manage your timeline, your photographer, your florist, your family dynamics, and your budget. They are there to advocate for your vision, whereas the venue coordinator is there to protect the property’s interests.
Why hire a local Raleigh planner versus bringing someone from out of town?
A local planner knows the hidden gems and the red flags. They know which florist sources the best peonies in May and which caterer handles humidity-proof menus best. Most importantly, they have established relationships with local vendors. This “home court advantage” often leads to better pricing, priority scheduling, and smoother problem-solving on the day of your event.
Great events start with standout spaces—and the people who bring them to life
Creating a memorable wedding in Raleigh is about more than just logistics; it’s about capturing the spirit of the city and your unique story within it. Whether you envision a grand affair in a historic ballroom or an intimate gathering in a hidden garden, the right space sets the tone for the entire experience. By pairing a professional planner with a distinctive Raleigh wedding venue, you lay the foundation for an extraordinary celebration.
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.
In this article
Nominate a superb planner
Nominate yourself or a fellow planner who deserves recognition.
Submit a NominationPlanners, show off your work
After your booking, upload photos to highlight how you transformed the space.
Explore Made in Peerspace
