Planning an event in Chicago can feel overwhelming. From weddings and corporate gatherings to birthday parties and luxury celebrations, organizing every detail can be stressful. That’s where a professional event planner and decorator in Chicago comes in. In this guide, we break down what their services include, pricing trends in 2025–2026, and tips for choosing the right planner for your special occasion.
Why Hire an Event Planner and Decorator?
Hiring a professional planner and decorator saves you time, reduces stress, and ensures your event looks stunning. Chicago-based planners bring local knowledge, vendor connections, and creative expertise. They manage everything from concept to execution so that you can enjoy the day without worry.
What’s Included in Event Planning Services
1. Consultation and Planning
Most planners offer an initial consultation to understand your vision, budget, and guest count. They create a customized event plan including timelines, theme ideas, and suggested vendors.
2. Venue Selection
Planners often help you find the perfect venue in Chicago or the surrounding Illinois areas. They consider capacity, location, amenities, and budget to ensure the venue fits your event style.
3. Decor and Styling
Decor services include floral arrangements, lighting, table settings, linens, backdrops, and overall theme styling. Planners coordinate colors, textures, and aesthetics for a cohesive look.
4. Vendor Management
Event planners handle contracts and coordination with caterers, photographers, entertainers, DJs, and rental companies. They ensure every vendor delivers on time and within budget.
5. Day-of Coordination
On the day of your event, planners supervise setup, manage timelines, and troubleshoot issues. This allows you to enjoy the event without stress.
6. Additional Services
- Catering and menu planning
- Entertainment booking
- Luxury dessert tables and grazing stations
- Invitation and guest management
- Transportation and logistics
Event Planners and Decorators in Chicago — What’s Included
The cost of hiring an event planner and decorator can vary depending on factors like event size, location, and services needed. Instead of focusing on numbers, it’s helpful to understand what you typically get when working with a professional:
Small Events
For intimate gatherings such as birthdays, showers, or small corporate meetings, planners provide essential services including consultation, basic décor setup, and day-of coordination to ensure a smooth and enjoyable event.
Medium Events
For larger gatherings like weddings, parties, or mid-sized corporate events, planners usually handle full-service coordination. This includes vendor management, venue assistance, customized décor, and timeline oversight to create a cohesive and memorable experience.
Large or Luxury Events
For high-end weddings or large corporate galas, planners offer premium services. They oversee multiple vendors, complex décor designs, entertainment, catering coordination, and provide full support from concept to execution, ensuring your event is executed flawlessly.
Working with a professional planner and decorator guarantees that no detail is overlooked, no matter the size or type of event.
Factors That Affect Pricing
- Event type: Weddings usually cost more than corporate or birthday events.
- Guest count: More guests mean higher costs for catering, rentals, and staffing.
- Venue: Popular Chicago venues can increase the overall price.
- Decor complexity: Luxury styling, floral installations, and themed décor add to the cost.
- Planner experience: Highly experienced planners charge premium rates but bring exceptional expertise.
Tips to Choose the Right Planner in Chicago
- Check portfolios and past events to match your style.
- Read reviews and testimonials from Chicago clients.
- Discuss your budget upfront to avoid surprises.
- Ask about full-service vs. day-of coordination options.
- Confirm availability for your event date early.
FAQs About Event Planners and Decorators in Chicago
1. What does an event planner in Chicago do?
An event planner handles all aspects of planning, coordination, and design for your event, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience.
2. How much does a wedding planner in Chicago cost?
Depending on size and services, prices range from $3,500 to $20,000 for full-service planning.
3. Do planners also provide decor?
Yes, most planners offer full décor services, including flowers, linens, lighting, and table styling.
4. Can I hire a planner for just the day of my event?
Yes, many planners offer “day-of coordination” to manage logistics without full planning.
5. Are Chicago event planners familiar with local vendors?
Yes, they have connections with trusted vendors for catering, photography, venues, and entertainment.
6. How early should I book an event planner?
Ideally, 6–12 months in advance for weddings and large events. Smaller events may require 2–3 months notice.
7. Do planners help with budgeting?
Yes, professional planners create a detailed budget and manage vendor payments to keep costs on track.
8. Can planners handle corporate events?
Absolutely. Planners manage conferences, galas, product launches, and corporate parties.
9. Is travel included in the planner’s fee?
For local Chicago events, travel is usually included. Destination events may incur additional charges.
10. What is the difference between a planner and a decorator?
Planners handle logistics, timelines, and vendor coordination. Decorators focus specifically on styling and visual elements.
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Ready to plan your perfect event in Chicago? Contact Plush Event Planning today and let us turn your vision into reality!
