The Best Wedding Planners in Lake Forest, IL

The Best Wedding Planners in Lake Forest, IL

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192 Wedding Planners in Lake Forest, IL

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Mostest 

4.8

  • Offers 5 services
  • Starts at $195
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Meet the Event planner in your pocket! Mostest unlocks curated and personalized event plans. Access to over 30,000+ vendors & venues, with over 23 different vendor types, including Coordination, and much more.

Awarded Best of Zola
We had the absolute pleasure of working with Jillian Bartel as our wedding coordinator at the Ace Hotel in Brooklyn in October 2025, and she was incredible from start to finish. Jillian was attentive, organized, and always on top of every detail, making sure everything ran smoothly throughout the entire day. She kept the timeline perfectly on track, handled every situation with calm professionalism, and made sure we could simply enjoy the moment. Her punctuality, communication, and overall professionalism were truly impressive. We’re so grateful for all the work she put in to make our wedding day seamless and stress-free. We highly recommend Jillian to any couple looking for a coordinator who genuinely cares and delivers excellence in every detail.
Kris V., 4 months ago
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HBIC Weddings 

5.0

  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $2,495
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

As your straightforward sounding board, we'll help you narrow down your Pins and hear out your dreams. (Heck, we'll even dream with you.) And we'll help you navigate your feelings, ideas and even your mom! But you should also know that if one of your ideas won’t really work – or there is a better way to approach your idea, we’re going to tell you that too! Because, trust us, you might think a trolley filled with your wedding party is a great idea. But the air conditioning of a bus is better than diesel fumes any day - especially during summer in the city.

HBIC Weddings is on a different level!  Diane is truly like no other planner. I met with many other planners who all gave me the same cookie-cutter pitch and answers. She is very realistic and straightforward when it comes to what you actually will get on your wedding day versus the Pinterest photos you see of super expensive weddings. She is also an expert at knowing what to spend money on and what you can skip for the best guest experience. This is super important if you don’t know the wedding industry. More importantly, I went with HBIC because Diane is authentic, unhinged, hilarious, and honest. I don’t know the first thing about weddings. I didn’t know what I wanted, who to contact, or what I needed—and I only had 8 months to do it. Enter Diane, my holy grail wedding planner who made it all happen. I showed her some inspiration pictures and she helped me create a more thorough idea of what I wanted for my wedding. Next thing you know, she’s matching me with photographers, DJs, florists, makeup artists—basically everyone I needed— and we’re in non stop “vendorpalooza” as she calls it. Needless to say, we had every single vendor booked and secured in under 2 months.  On my wedding day, I did not use a single brain cell. She had a whole team with her that managed me, my wedding party, my family, and all the guests. Not to mention, she has great relationships with all her vendors so she also made sure they knew where they had to be, when they had to be there, and exactly what to do. One of her team members was always escorting me to where I had to be and keeping track of the time and schedule for me. I was so busy and worried about my family not sticking to the itinerary, but Diane’s team successfully managed everyone in the ceremony including my old Chinese grandparents that don’t speak English. Very strongly recommend planning your celebration with HBIC! We worked with Diane for several months preceding our wedding. She guided us through vendors, contract filling, and every fine detail that we would have overlooked if we were on our own. Their excellence was truly showcased day-of: Diane and her staff compiled an hour-to-hour (sometimes minute to minute) itinerary for our wedding day, directed the cast of characters smoothly and gracefully; nothing fell behind schedule and they had every little detail in mind. They weren’t pushy either - they kept everything to schedule without being commandeering, and had a subtle hand. J and Allen were both stellar throughout the night, like dutiful spriteful seamsters stitching up any small snag along the way without the tear ever being noticed (J immediately noticed when Aiden’s bustle came undone on the dance floor, beckoned Aiden to a side room, and refastened in less than a minute). They were there from before the beginning to the end, our amazing night would have been all the lesser without their help! Go with HBIC!!
Tiffany C., 2 months ago
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Weddings by Jennifer Fox 

5.0

  • Offers 6 services
  • Starts at $440
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Congratulations —you’re getting married!! We want you to feel like your wedding is being handled by an old friend with a lot of experience! Marriage officiant, day of coordination and wedding planning for your wedding. What makes us unique?? We offer unique personalized ceremonies with our Officiating Services for your wedding- we will work together to ensure your ceremony is perfect for you and your partner! We also ensure your day is stress free and all about you! We come to you and travel anywhere! We love love!

Awarded Best of Zola
We are beyond grateful to our incredible wedding planner for helping bring our Garden Summer Wedding to life on June 14, 2025. From start to finish, the planning process was smooth, collaborative, and truly enjoyable. Every detail reflected our personalities and vision—from the romantic florals of eucalyptus, hydrangeas, and roses with soft touches of purple, to the perfectly arranged tent and décor that made our backyard feel magical. Our planner worked seamlessly with us and our vendors to make the day unforgettable. From accommodating fun and unexpected elements like a white bounce house castle and a vintage plum crazy 1970 Dodge Challenger, to helping coordinate Andrew and his son’s surprise dirt bike entrance—nothing was ever too big or too small. Their professionalism and calm presence allowed us to relax and fully enjoy every moment. Thank you for turning our ideas into something even more beautiful than we imagined. You gave us a day full of joy, laughter, and cherished memories—we couldn’t have done it without you! With heartfelt thanks, Yulia & Andrew
Yulia B., 8 months ago
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Yes to I Do 

5.0

  • Offers 2 services
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

I am a certified wedding planner with a passion for learning. It all started over 10 years ago when I worked as a birthday party host at a park district, eventually expanding to fundraising events, showers, and weddings. My passion for weddings and events grew, and I began helping friends and family with their weddings. Now, I run my own business! There is nothing I love more than seeing an idea come to life! When I'm not planning weddings, you'll find me cuddling with my baby, enjoying the show Friends under a cozy blanket, or sharing a meal with a glass (or two) of wine with my husband. I'd love to chat and learn more about you!

Working alongside Yes to I Do was such an incredible experience! As the photographer for the day, I was so impressed with how organized, communicative, and genuinely kind their team was from start to finish. They kept everything running smoothly while creating such a relaxed, joyful atmosphere for everyone involved. It truly felt like we were all on the same page, working together to give the couple the best day ever. Can’t wait to work with this amazing team again! It was truly a dream collaboration!
TheStillLifePhotography, 5 months ago
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Spruced Up Designs 

5.0

  • Offers 1 service
  • Starts at $1,100
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Spruced Up Designs is a woman-owned, family operated company ! Our close bonds make this company organized, creative, and relatable. We specialize in on-site wedding coordination, ensuring every detail is managed seamlessly so couples can truly enjoy their day.

Awarded Best of Zola
Working with Spruced Up Designs was an absolute must for our wedding day. From our first conversation, Leela was prompt, detailed, and incredibly organized in her communication. Her attention to every aspect of the wedding planning process was evident in the high-quality, personalized service they provided. When I didn't have menus ready, they quickly stepped in, designed, ordered, and picked them up - all before I even knew there was an issue. Leela and Brenda's kindness, efficiency, and eye for detail made them invaluable partners in creating our dream wedding day. I don't know what I would have done without them by my side, and I highly recommend Spruced Up Designs to any couple planning their special day. Also the handmade arbor was such a great touch to our ceremony!
Kimberly C., 24 days ago
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EventScape, Inc. Luxury Weddings & Rentals 

5.0

  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $2,500
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

EventScape, Inc.®Luxury Weddings Division provides premier wedding planning services for your special day. As featured in an episode of WE TV’s Platinum Weddings, our team of creative professionals will make your once-in-a-lifetime event a true celebration of your personal style and provide you with a lifetime of memories. Our experts at EventScape, Inc's Rental Division can coordinate all of your rental needs including: tables, chairs, chargers, specialty linens, LED dance floors and bars, uplighting, custom gobos, lounge furniture, tenting, staging, generators and executive restrooms.

Awarded Best of Zola
AnnMarie Choukas was amazing to work with. Incredibly professional, amazing services. I didn't have to worry about anything! Would absolutely work with AnnMarie again on any special occasion!
Gillian O., 2 years ago
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B.l.Allen Wedding & Events 

5.0

  • Offers 2 services
  • Starts at $1,500
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL
  • Offer

A passionate and detail-oriented wedding planner with years of experience in creating unforgettable weddings. Known for our impeccable organizational skills and creative vision, we specialize in curating personalized, stress-free events that reflect each couple’s unique style and love story. From intimate gatherings to extravagant celebrations, we expertly handle every aspect of the wedding planning process, from vendor coordination to day-of execution. With a dedication to providing exceptional service and ensuring every detail is flawlessly executed, we strive to make each couple’s dream wedding a reality.

Awarded Best of Zola
Wow. Where do we even begin? We could not have asked for a better Day of Coordinator. Brooke was everything we needed and more. At every turn, she was so in tune with the entire event. Any snag or potential bump in the road was immediately dealt with by Brooke flawlessly. She plays the role that anyone can only dream of at their weddings. She goes above and beyond and even helped with planning, organizing, setup, and cleanup. To be clear, the extra duties she did were NOT in her job description but she did them anyways because she wanted everything in our wedding to go perfectly. Specifically, she not only made sure all members of our wedding party and vendors stayed organized, timely, and on task but also made sure all of our guests were confortable and made sure their every need was met. She handed out flip flops we provided to guests when their feet were tired, she helped charge the father of the groom’s phone when the battery was low, and came the day before for our rehearsal so we all knew what to do and where to go. The best part was we didn’t need to ask for these things, she just knew how to help and took initiative. Multiple people at our wedding have commented that they’ve never seen a more smoothly ran wedding. Our parents even told us how kind and helpful she was to them throughout the wedding. Brooke has a true talent at her job. Do what you love and your work will speak for itself. Well it’s clear that Brooke loves what she does because she may have just been one of the best (if not the best) member of our wedding team. When we first talked with Brooke she reiterated that her goal was to make us feel like the bride and groom and she did exactly that. Brooke is professional, kind, helpful, and above all does her job flawlessly. We thank you Brooke, from the bottom of our hearts.
Kyla, 2 years ago
Belíssima Events 

5.0

  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $1,995
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL
  • Offer

Belissima Events is a wedding and event planning studio dedicated to crafting timeless, elegant celebrations infused with heart. Based in Woodstock, IL, we specialize in blending rustic charm, modern sophistication, and refined details. From full-service planning to wedding day management, we offer personalized care, multilingual support, and seamless execution — so you can be fully present in every cherished moment.

I am proud to share my experience with Bijou and her excellent work. She did an amazing job for us, and I highly recommend her to anyone looking to organize their event. From the decorations to the overall planning, everything was beautifully executed. Trust her to make your celebration unforgettable!
Flory E., a year ago
GemHidden gem
Destify | destination wedding specialists 

4.9

  • Offers 2 services
  • Starts at $150
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Destify simplifies destination weddings for couples and guests alike. We make planning feel exciting, not overwhelming, with curated resorts, transparent pricing, and a dedicated expert guiding you every step of the way. From understanding costs and timelines to handling logistics and guest travel, you’ll always know what to expect. With 24/7 support and a personal, thoughtful approach, we treat your wedding as more than a transaction, helping you create a seamless, joyful celebration and a meaningful start to your next chapter.

Awarded Best of Zola
Destify - Destination Wedding Planners were great to work with from start to finish. They had excellent communication throughout the planning process and always made sure to follow up and stay on top of any concerns we had. Destify made the planning process very easy with their user-friendly website, guest list management, and helpful tips for traveling to our destination wedding. We felt confident that every detail was taken care of, allowing us to fully enjoy our special day.
Amanda P., a month ago
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Heirloom Event Company 

5.0

  • Offers 2 services
  • Starts at $2,995
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL
  • Offer

At Heirloom Event Company, we lead with transparency, clear communication, and genuine care. Serving couples in Chicago, Los Angeles, Milwaukee, and Northwest Arkansas, we’re committed to helping you create a beautiful wedding without breaking your budget or sacrificing what matters most. We offer honest guidance, organized processes, and creative solutions that help you stay grounded, feel supported, and enjoy your planning journey with confidence and ease.

Awarded Best of Zola
Heirloom Event Company was an absolute dream to work with for our wedding. From the very first interaction, Haylie and her team demonstrated clear, responsive, and quick communication that put us at ease throughout the entire planning process. Their work was of the highest quality - they were incredibly thorough and paid close attention to every detail, going above and beyond at every turn. Haylie felt more like a close friend than a vendor, making the whole experience fun and stress-free. We will be enthusiastically recommending Heirloom Event Company to all of our friends and family.
Juana L., 7 months ago
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The Simply Elegant Group 

5.0

  • Offers 7 services
  • Starts at $1,975
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Lindsay has been in the events industry for years and has overseen hundreds of successful events. Her attention to detail and ability to handle any situation that arises with grace and ease allows her couples to relax and enjoy their wedding day. Lindsay not only plans weddings for our Simply Elegant couples but also trains our entire team of planners to ensure that every Simply Elegant wedding is flawless and our client's vision is fulfilled.

Awarded Best of Zola
Working with Hanh from the Simply Elegant Group was simply the best decision we could have made for planning our son's wedding.  When my son asked me to help he and his partner plan their wedding, I started researching and was immediately overwhelmed.  From the first call with Simply Elegant Group to the last dance at the wedding, Hanh helped us find the very best vendors, saved us money and took all of the stress of planning and organizing off of our shoulders.  Hanh was professional, experienced, knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with.  Hanh's work and attention to detail made it "the best wedding ever" according to all of our guests.  I would absolutely recommend the Simply Elegant Group if you want to get the best value, the best ideas, the best vendors and enjoy your wedding.
Jennifer A., 2 months ago
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BW Studio + Events 

5.0

  • Offers 5 services
  • Starts at $3,800
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

BW Studio+Events is a Chicago-based event coordination and planning group serving Chicagoland and surrounding suburbs. The Studio focuses on intimate weddings with unique flair and lots of personal touches. Blair founded BW Studio after hosting a number of non-profit events and finding herself completely immersed in the process. Once she realized her knack for event organization and planning, the studio was quickly born.

Awarded Best of Zola
My husband and I will never stop recommending BW Studio Events!!!! Blair is an absolute pro! She has a fool-proof strategy for wedding planning, a wealth of wedding knowledge and connections with the highest quality vendors, and a stunning vision and ability to understand the vision of others! The peace of mind Blair's expertise and communication brought to our planning process was PRICELESS. We knew no detail would be missed, and we were confident that Blair could handle any challenge that might come our way, whether it was on the day of or during planning. Our wedding day was truly perfect, and the way the vision in my head came to life in our venue surpassed my expectations! Meanwhile, I had the most chill, beautiful morning getting ready for the wedding, and I have her assistant Elly to thank for it! She was absolutely spectacular. She was present every moment we needed her and blended into the background while sneakily helping, like steaming our dresses and setting up the gifts for my ladies without us even knowing. She was like our secret fairy godmother! And when I was getting ready to walk down the aisle and was feeling anxious, she was the most calm presence. She really helped me keep my composure. So so grateful for all she did for us! She made me feel so special :] Long story short, if you're wondering if hiring a wedding planner is worth it, I'm here to tell you THEY ARE WORTH EVERY SINGLE PENNY!!!
Brittany D., a year ago
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Afterglow Weddings and Events 

5.0

  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Hi there, I’m Olivia, the face behind Afterglow Weddings and Events! With over five years of experience in the wedding industry, including catering and venue sales, I've been part of more than 100 love stories. My journey in the Chicago wedding industry has included time as a venue coordinator, catering sales manager and event coordinator. My favorite part about working in the industry is working with couples to help their wedding dreams come to life. At Afterglow Weddings and Events, I'm dedicated to bringing your dreams to life and ensuring every detail reflects your unique love story.

Awarded Best of Zola
From the first call with Camille, I knew we were in the right hands! Despite the super tight timeframe we were working with (1 month), she took the time to really get to know us and our vision, support us along the way, and provide excellent guidance when we were unsure. Other planners we met with were nowhere near as personable, detail oriented, and engaged as Camille. She was so prepared, focused, and never lost sight of both the big picture of the day and how we were doing in the moment. We didn't have a bridal party, but having Camille there felt like having a best friend nearby to help with whatever I needed. She genuinely loves what she does and believes your wedding day should be the best day of your lives and she does everything in her power to make that come true.
Kelly C., 2 months ago
GemHidden gem
Emily Nuzzo Events 

5.0

  • Offers 5 services
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Hi there! I am Emily and I am so excited you found your way here. I have a passion for curating one-of-a-kind weddings that showcase a couple’s individuality. It is important for me to get to know couple’s personally, what makes them excited about their wedding day and how I can alleviate any planning stress (ew, we don’t want stress). Consider me your right-hand gal, your “planner in your pocket”, your sounding board and the gal that will make sure your wedding day is flawless!

Awarded Best of Zola
Emily was amazing! We worked with her for planning, starting from about 15 months before the wedding date, as well as day-of coordinating, and she was an incredible help time after time. Whenever we were stuck trying to figure out vendors or even basic things like the color scheme, Emily was able to help us make progress and stayed really kind and patient throughout, even with what were probably fairly dumb questions at least some of the time. (After all, I don't think either of us ever planned a party for more than a dozen people at a time, so it was invaluable to have help from someone so experienced as Emily!) Emily was great at keeping track of timelines and helped focus us on which decisions needed to be made sooner and what we could leave for later. When we decided to add a tea ceremony as part of the wedding, Emily didn't bat an eye and was so helpful with getting those extra details sorted. There can be so many times while planning a wedding where it’s hard to know how to even approach an important decision, including just communicating w/ guests & family and her expertise, advice, and care kept us from getting stuck more times than we can count! Even though you would expect an event planner to be very rigid in saying how things should go, Emily is not robotic at all and we loved how spontaneous and open to brainstorming different options she always was! The night before and morning of the wedding, we were a bit stressed, but once we were at our venue and Emily was back involved, things went incredibly smoothly and we had a day filled with joy and love. One of Emily's assistants, Alaina, was also there to help w/ day-of details and she was also so nice, calm and capable! Emily even stepped in as an emergency emcee for us when our previous plans fell through 2 weeks before the wedding & our guests loved her humor & warmth during the reception too!
Tien-Tien, a year ago
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grayterevents 

5.0

  • Offers 4 services
  • Starts at $650
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Working out of Lombard, IL, I am a type A planner from the very center of my heart. I love lists, schedules, budgets, and all things organized. Weddings are my passion because they involve so much coordinated detail in every phase of the day from start to finish. I love to see my client's vision for their special day come together with every check off the to do list. I have been coordinating weddings since early 2018, but have been networking in the industry for several years now. I love working with all of the gorgeous venues we have here in the suburbs of Chicago and can't wait to get started planning your dream wedding.

Awarded Best of Zola
Bree and the team at Grayterevents were an absolute dream to work with for our backyard wedding reception. With just under 200 guests, this was no small affair, but Bree's punctual and clear communication put us at ease every step of the way. Her team was incredibly helpful, quickly getting a broken outlet fixed the morning of the wedding so everything ran smoothly. The quality of their work was top-tier, and we could not have had the wedding of our dreams without their trustworthy expertise. Bree and her team went above and beyond to make our special day truly unforgettable. If you are looking for a coordinator, look no further. Grayterevents is the best!
Lilly H., 4 months ago
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Marryment 

5.0

  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $2,495
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Welcome Chicago & Chicagoland Couples! We're so glad you're here! From Month-Of Coordination to All-Inclusive Planning and everything in between, Marryment has got you covered. We are on a mission to revolutionize the industry and keep the joy and celebration in wedding planning. With Marryment, you can plan your wedding day with CONFIDENCE knowing we are here for you every step of the way- literally! Our team consists of 6 exceptional planners with wedding experience and industry knowledge. All of our planners are fun, empathetic, friendly, supportive, flexible and keep the couple's best interest at the center of it all.

Awarded Best of Zola
I can’t even imagine what a chaotic mess the day would have been without Claire by my side. She was ten steps ahead at every moment—everything was laid out and ready for me, she sent thoughtful checklist reminders throughout the week, captured amazing B-roll footage my photographer couldn’t get, and handled both setup and teardown flawlessly. Claire is so much more than a “day-of” planner—she truly goes above and beyond.
Crystal S., a month ago
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The Bailey Experience Wedding and Event Co 

4.3

  • Offers 5 services
  • Starts at $2,500
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

The Bailey Experience Wedding and Event Co. is a luxury wedding planning firm specializing in refined celebrations on land and at sea. Known for calm oversight and intentional execution, we curate wedding experiences that feel composed, elevated, and thoughtfully delivered. From cruise weddings to sophisticated celebrations throughout Washington, DC, Florida, and beyond, our work is defined by discretion, clarity, and seamless direction, allowing couples to be fully present throughout their celebration.

Awarded Best of Zola
The Bailey Experience Wedding and Event Co. was a dream to work with for our Open House at LOFT39. Their communication style was professional, prompt, and friendly, putting us at ease throughout the planning process. The quality of their work was truly seamless - they meticulously managed load-in and schedule, ensuring the event started flawlessly. Their team's organizational skills, beautiful design work, and professional management made them a trusted, preferred planning and decor vendor for our clients at LOFT39. We would recommend The Bailey Experience over and over again for their visionary approach to weddings.
Kendall O., 3 months ago
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Thyme & Details 

5.0

  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Thyme & Details offers wedding planning and design services to sentimental couples looking for good vibes and premium personal touches. We know how important it is to be present in the moment – not worrying about organization, budgeting, managing vendors, etc. Let's make planning zesty so you can focus on your VIPs and enjoying your journey. We are based in Ohio but available for travel. Reach out so we can create something unforgettable!

Awarded Best of Zola
Thyme & Details, under the exceptional leadership of Dana Watts, played an instrumental role in orchestrating our special day. From the moment we embarked on the planning journey, Dana's warm and delightful personality instantly put us at ease. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and meticulous attention to detail transformed what could have been a daunting process into a manageable and relatively stress-free affair. What truly sets Dana apart is her unparalleled expertise and extensive network of vendor connections. With her guidance, we navigated through countless decisions with confidence, knowing that Dana's recommendations would always lead us to the best possible outcomes. From selecting the perfect venue to curating a dream team of vendors, Dana's wealth of experience and industry knowledge proved invaluable at every turn. One of the most remarkable aspects of working with Thyme & Details was Dana's ability to keep us organized and on track throughout the planning process. With her meticulous planning and proactive approach, she ensured that by the week of the wedding, we had zero decisions or tasks left to complete. This allowed us to approach our special day with a sense of calm and relaxation, knowing that every detail had been meticulously taken care of. This was truly priceless. On the day of the wedding, Dana and her team executed flawlessly, leaving no detail overlooked. From managing unexpected challenges with grace and efficiency to ensuring that both sets of parents could fully immerse themselves in the celebration free from tasks or responsibilities. Both our Mom’s had planned our siblings weddings and what a gift for them to be able to relax, be present, and truly enjoy the wedding. I have countless fond memories of Dana and her team going above and beyond to make our wedding day truly unforgettable. From tackling last-minute emergencies with poise and professionalism to seamlessly coordinating every aspect of the event, Dana's commitment to excellence was apparent in every interaction. I cannot recommend Thyme & Details, and Dana, highly enough. With her unmatched expertise, unwavering professionalism, and genuine care for her clients, she truly exceeded our expectations in every way. If you're searching for a wedding planning partner who will turn your vision into reality or create one for you, look no further than Dana and Thyme & Details. You won't be disappointed.
Matt H., 2 years ago
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Honorary Bridesmaid 

5.0

  • Offers 6 services
  • Starts at $1,650
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Honorary Bridesmaid is a wedding planning company that was created for the couple that needs a helping hand from start to finish, partial planning, day of coordination, or finding the perfect attire. What started as a passion for learning about all things bridal transformed into a planning business that allows a couple to feel relaxed and stress free for their big day. Honorary Bridesmaid takes pride in finding affordable ways of making a vision come to life by using local vendors, DIY'ing if needed, and will be the person to ask for any help.

Awarded Best of Zola
Kimberly was fantastic for our wedding this past fall. I had several conversations with various Wedding Coordinators and Companies but Kimberly stood out right away. From our first phone call, she asked such specific questions and walked me through the process and gave suggestions on how to keep everything organized. Kimberly was super professional, reliable, attentive and when above and beyond the weeks leading up and the day of our wedding. We did a downtown Chicago wedding and my husband is Assyrian, so between the level of detail and cultural elements, there was a lot that I entrusted Kimberly to help me with.. from the wedding timeline, to seating chart last minute changes, to coordinating with the hotel events manager, the photographers, leading the other vendors and table set requests, Kimberly was there to lead it all and ensure everything looked absolutely stunning for our wedding. 10/10 recommend Kimberly for any wedding or special event.
Lauren B., 3 months ago
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Monarch Creative Events 

5.0

  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $3,800
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

At Monarch Creative Events, we specialize in seamless wedding planning for couples who want a stunning, stress-free celebration. We know you’re busy, so we handle the details while you enjoy the experience. From vendor coordination to flawless execution, we ensure your day runs smoothly. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a grand event, our expertise turns your vision into reality. With a passion for organization and a focus on memorable guest experiences, we make wedding planning effortless. Let’s create something extraordinary together!

Awarded Best of Zola
I found Alexa on the Knot and booked her for Monarch’s full wedding planning package as my husband & I were planning a wedding outside of Chicago in an unconventional venue, 9 months away, and lived in another state. It was a big challenge but from the initial consultation, we loved Alexa’s energy, organization, commitment and just knew we could trust her with our once in a lifetime event. The planning process was extremely organized, thorough and well-paced. She matched my attention to detail, tackled unplanned challenges with ferocity (which included a limited selection of vendors given the location of our venue) and was as dedicated to bringing my very specific vision to life as I was. She brought great vendor recommendations and connections and did countless hours of research on new vendors. Details were well-documented and thoroughly discussed to ensure all parties were aligned. Even though our venue was farther outside Chicago (Indiana), she ran several venue walkthroughs in-person, attended vendor visits with me, and always accommodated my husband and I’s busy schedule. As Alexa started to step away for her maternity leave (which started right before our wedding date), she did an amazing job ensuring her team was fully prepared to handle last minute preparations and day-of responsibilities. The day-of team of 3 were awesome with completely handling all details A-Z so I didn’t have to worry about anything, even despite some last minute changes due to weather! Due to the complexity of our venue, its location, short timeline, and being from out-of-state, we are SO GLAD we booked Monarch for their full planning package and had the privilege of working with Alexa! It was sincerely our pleasure to have her bring our special day to life, she was a joy to work with and get to know. If I were getting married again, I’d book her services again no question! Thank you Alexa!!
Abby R., a year ago
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Anemone Events 

5.0

  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $2,100
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

At Anemone Events, I have one simple goal: to ensure your day is as extraordinary as it can be! I strive to execute experiences and memories that will last you a lifetime. I care about you and aspire to bring your visions to life, delivering a day that will perfectly reflect YOUR unique story. My hope is to simplify the lead-up to your best moments, allowing you to sit back, relax and be present in every minute of your magical celebration while I handle the day's details, setup, communications, logistics and everything in between.

Awarded Best of Zola
I cannot recommend Sarah enough! While I initially thought I just needed someone for the “day of,” I quickly realized how much goes into wedding coordination in the weeks and months leading up to the big day—and Sarah was there every step of the way. She went so far above and beyond what I ever expected, and I truly don’t know how I would have gotten through the wedding planning process, or the actual day, without her. From the moment we started working together, Sarah brought a sense of calm, professionalism, and thoughtfulness to everything. She is kind, incredibly organized, detail-oriented, and somehow manages to be both relaxed and hard-working at the same time. Every detail was thought through, every vendor was communicated with, and every little hiccup was handled before I even had time to worry about it. On my wedding day, I was able to be fully present and soak it all in, because I knew Sarah had everything under control. If you’re on the fence about whether you need a day-of coordinator, don’t overthink it—hire Sarah. She is a true gem, and you’ll be so glad to have her in your corner.
Alexa S., 8 months ago
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Shh Events 

5.0

  • Offers 4 services
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Shh Events comes from all of the experiences I have gained- all of the trade secrets- that set my experience as a wedding planner to an elevated level of expertise. Shh Events is a curator for love stories, and it's an honor to be a part of the stories we tell.

For everyone who thinks they don’t need a wedding planner. You do. You do and you specifically need Stephanie. If everyone had a Stephanie, there would be no wedding disasters, no war, and no famine. Stephanie is the best. She helped us look through contracts with vendors, talked us through conversations with catering (which is how we met her), and ran our wedding day seamlessly. Stephanie really knows this business. She helped us manage our budget, she set expectations and timelines, and was super responsive with emails and questions. She also was respectful and inclusive to us with all our identities, as a gay couple and a Jewish/Italian couple. The wedding industry often assumes a lot of things but Stephanie is so kind and goes out of her way to make sure she never does. Beyond that, I think it’s important to highlight what a wedding planner does the day of. She makes sure all the tables are set up so you don’t have to. She makes sure your vendors arrive on time. She made sure our photos and our flowers were set up. I cannot emphasize enough how much you will not want to be doing your own table arrangements when you’re trying to pull off the biggest party you’ve ever thrown. She also came a few days early and picked up ALL of the items for the wedding in her mini-van. Then she packed them up at the end of the night and delivered them a few days after the wedding?? That ALONE is the best. I assumed my wife, our families, and I would be packing things up that night but she gave us a magical day where we didn’t have to worry about anything. She’s also incredibly smart and thorough and NEVER complains. We had books as our centerpieces and realized later that the idea of books was going to be HEAVY. She never told us we were nuts but she actually said she liked it because we did things that were true to us. She has more energy than anyone I’ve ever met and her and her day-of assistant, Caitlin, were the best. Seriously, Stephanie is, as my wife says, a magical human being. Don’t plan a wedding without her.
Andrea T., a year ago
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Handled by Hamlin Events 

5.0

  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $275
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Hi, my name is Michelle. I am an educator with a love for weddings and events. If I can handle a classroom of 24 second graders imaging what I can do for you on your wedding day. Handled by Hamlin Events is for a couple who is fun, energetic, carefree, and wants to live their best "married" life.

Awarded Best of Zola
As a SECOND time Bride, whom didn't use a planner the first time. HIRE MICHELLE. You won't regret it one bit. As a "seasoned" wedding professional, I didn't use a planner the first time and I regret it. WOW WOW WOW What a difference it makes to have someone advocating for you! There was no need to chat with any vendors and answer questions about anything because I had Michelle. I can't stress enough how much this made my day STRESS-FREE. She's a total professional boss babe, friendly, and fierce. Thank you again Michelle for making our day AMAAAAAAAZING.
Giselle V., 2 years ago
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Capstone Occasions 

5.0

  • Offers 6 services
  • Starts at $2,600
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Hi! I'm Tia - Mom of 5 kids, 2 dogs and wife to the most supportive and amazing husband there is. In fact, you will often times find him carrying boxes, straightening linens, or even officiating from time to time. I started Capstone Occasions (aka-my crowning achievement) to help elevate your events to the top of your expectations. It could be a simple intimate affair to the grandest of parties, but whatever you are envisioning, it is my plan to execute it with every bit of intention and emotion that you have for it yourself.

Awarded Best of Zola
We cannot say enough wonderful things about Capstone Occasions. From our first point of contact to the final moments of our wedding day, Tia went above and beyond to make both wedding planning and our wedding day unforgettable. Her attention to detail, creativity, and organizational skills are exceptional. As an out-of-state couple to the team, we were initially concerned about planning a wedding from afar, but Tia made the process easy! Tia provided us with unlimited opportunities to check in as needed throughout the planning process, making us feel supported every step of the way. She is incredibly communicative and made it a priority to ensure that every aspect of our wedding aligned with our personal vision. It was so clear that Tia and her team are highly experienced and knowledgable. Her guidance throughout the planning process gave us the confidence that everything would turn out as intended. On our wedding day, everything ran seamlessly, allowing not just us but all of our guests to fully enjoy the moment without worrying about a single thing. Many of our guests commented on how beautifully everything came together, and we owe it all to Tia and her team. If you are looking for someone who genuinely cares about making your day perfect, we wholeheartedly recommend Capstone Occasions to any couple.
Alex C., a year ago
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One Fine Day Events 

5.0

  • Offers 6 services
  • Starts at $1,700
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

You want a wedding with that 'Million Dollar Vibe' that feels like a party without the scary price tag. You want to enjoy your engagement, not spend every weekend stressing over spreadsheets. That’s where One Fine Day Events comes in! Gina and her professional staff have executed more than 1,000 events and have worked in the wedding industry for over 20 years. No matter how much or how little assistance you want, Gina and her team are ready to help. One Fine Day Events has several predesigned packages, from day-of coordination to full-service planning. Gina and her team can also create custom invitations and source distinctive decor.

Awarded Best of Zola
Gina was professional, timely and kept me on budget. The vendors she selected were top notch and the hotel was perfect. Our guests had a great time as well. In the words of my husband of 50 years it was Elegant! We would highly recommend her.
Jewel T., 2 months ago
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3Event Creations LLC 

5.0

  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $1,500
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Your wedding shouldn’t feel like a project to manage — it should feel like a season to savor. From the first spark of an idea to the final farewell at the end of the night, we’re here to make sure you’re present for all of it. We’re passionate about serving our couples well — honoring your vision, safeguarding your budget, and keeping your top priorities exactly where they belong: front and center. You call the shots. We take care of the moving pieces, the timelines, and the pressure behind the scenes. The result? A smooth, intentional experience led with professionalism, handled with heart, and designed entirely around you.

Awarded Best of Zola
Nicole Richter was a phenomenal day of coordinator. She made my husband’s and my big day so seamless and kept my anxiety at bay! Any time we needed something or a situation came up, Nicole was right there to problem solve. We’re truly so grateful to have had her on our day; we would book her again in a heartbeat!! It was such a comfort having her as a support, an absolutely invaluable part of what made our wedding day feel perfect. Thank you so much for your professionalism, kindness, expertise, and flexibility, Nicole!!
JoAnn, 2 months ago
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Here It Blooms 

5.0

  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $2,800
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Hi friend! I'm Pauline, and I am excited to help you have a fun, memorable and well-coordinated wedding. I left my career as a project manager at Meta to pursue my passion in event planning. Executing a wedding day brings me joy and fulfillment and I truly love being able to help couples on one of the most special days of their lives.

Awarded Best of Zola
We cannot recommend Pauline enough! From the very beginning, her communication was outstanding—she was quick to respond, always willing to answer our many questions, and even stepped in to help with a few things that went beyond her official scope. That level of care and commitment gave us so much peace of mind leading up to our big day. On the wedding day itself, Pauline and her team were absolutely incredible. They had every detail memorized and handled vendor issues behind the scenes before we even knew there was a problem—we didn’t find out about some of them until after the wedding because she had everything handled so seamlessly. She came prepared with every “just in case” essential you could imagine, and her calm, kind demeanor was such a gift during moments that could have been stressful. Pauline also struck the perfect balance between keeping us on time and knowing when to let us enjoy the moment and flex the schedule a bit. Her organizational skills are unmatched, and she kept the entire day running smoothly without ever making it feel rushed. If you’re looking for a coordinator who is professional, detail-oriented, incredibly organized, and genuinely cares about making your day perfect, Pauline is the one. Hiring her was one of the best decisions we made in our wedding planning process.
Peyton, 5 months ago
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Vinella Events 

5.0

  • Offers 4 services
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Vinella Events has 20+ years in design, hospitality, and program management. We serve Chicago and beyond through personalizing unforgettable moments. Our goal is to create curated experiences with a timeless design that reflect the true essence of our clients.

Awarded Best of Zola
We could NOT have done our wedding without Janella at Vinella Events. We were looking for a day-of coordinator because we thought it would help us enjoy our day and focus on celebrating with each other and our guests. We had that and more in working with Janella, and I am so thankful she made our wedding day as successful as it was. Janella came recommended to us by our venue, and we first met with her about 4 months before our wedding and went with her 6-week coordination package. We originally just wanted someone to help only for the day of the wedding, but this absolutely was a better deal because she came with us to our venue meetings, helped coordinate our timeline, asked insightful questions for things we never would have even thought of, went through our ceremony with me, and helped me feel SO much more prepared before the wedding through meetings and just being a resource. She helped us run an efficient rehearsal prior to the wedding and coordinated with me so that we would have all of the set-up and items how I wanted them for our wedding day. On the day of the wedding, she went above and beyond in her role. She set up all of our decor, helped facilitate transportation of items, executed the timeline and adapted when things went off time (and importantly, did all of this seamlessly so that myself and the guests didn’t notice), created back-up plans when there were issues with other vendors, coordinated set-up with other vendors, ran to get my lipstick from another room for photos, and too many other things behind the scenes that I didn’t even have to know about because I was able to trust her to tackle them. I had multiple compliments from family members and friends about how organized she was and how kind she was, and she made a 270-person wedding flow seamlessly. She ultimately gave us the ability to just ENJOY the day without having to answer questions or worry about things going on that day. I am so thankful for Janella and would hire her again in a heartbeat. Thank you for everything, Janella!
Jordan B., 6 months ago
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Little Sparrow Events 

4.7

  • Offers 6 services
  • Starts at $850
  • Serves Lake Forest, IL

Little Sparrow Event is a fairy tale on its own by the way it came to life. Helping couple have their Dream Wedding Day is why we get up every morning, witness hundreds of unique love stories is what we thrive for! We go above and beyond for our couples and we love it!

Awarded Best of Zola
What can I even say! Laury was an absolute joy to work with and ensured the vision of our special day came to life! I am so beyond grateful we trusted Laury with this because to say she delivered is an understatement. She ensured the entire day ran smoothly and that every detail was executed as we intended. Even the tiniest of issues that arose she was able to fix to exactly what we wanted. I couldn’t be happier with her and our choice to hire her! She is such a kind and talented human and she knows the wedding industry so well. Do yourself a favor and HIRE HER! I promise you won’t regret it.
Danielle B., 9 months ago