The Best Wedding Planners in Essex, IL

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182 Wedding Planners in Essex, IL

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CM Planning LLC 
Rating: 5.0 (27 reviews)
  • Offers 7 services
  • Starts at $25
  • Serves Essex, IL

At CM Planning LLC, we understand that your wedding day is one of the most significant moments of your life, and we are here to ensure it unfolds seamlessly, allowing you to savor every precious moment. Our services cater to diverse budgets and needs. Customized packages accommodate every event, even for untraditional schedules. No need to stress—whether you want full wedding planning or day-of coordination, we’ve got you covered. Can’t find what you need? Contact us to create a personalized package. Explore our a la carte options, including vendor sourcing, timeline creation, wedding set up or tear down, and decor transport/storage.

Carolyn was so great to work with! From our timeline to the rehearsal and day of! Carolyn was on hand to answering all my details and questions! She made our venue simply stunning!
Samantha H., 2 years ago
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I Do Memorable Occasions 
Rating: 5.0 (22 reviews)
  • Offers 4 services
  • Starts at $75
  • Serves Essex, IL

I Do Memorable Occasions is a wedding planning and coordination company based in Lockport, IL. We welcome the opportunity to be part of events in Chicago and Illinois suburbs. Offered packages include comprehensive, customizable planning and day-of coordination for all your wedding needs from your bridal shower and bachelor and bachelorette parties to the big day and the day-after brunch. Whether you only recently got engaged and you're not quite sure where to begin, or you have a crystal-clear vision in mind and just need an extra set of eyes and hands to bring it all together, I Do Memorable Occasions has you covered.

I’ve had the pleasure of working with Lauren from I Do Memorable Occasions on two weddings now, and each experience has been absolutely wonderful. As a wedding photographer, having a planner who is both incredibly well-organized and an absolute joy to work with makes all the difference. Lauren keeps everything running smoothly, handles the unexpected with ease, and creates a positive, collaborative atmosphere for everyone involved. It’s clear she pours her heart into every event and genuinely cares about her couples. I’m always excited when I see her name on a wedding day timeline—she’s truly a dream to work with!!
Nina Marqui P., a year ago
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Sholeh Events 
Rating: 5.0 (14 reviews)
  • Offers 5 services
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Essex, IL

I have been a wedding planner for over 20 years. I am here to support your ideas and help you find ways to make your wedding day the experience you imagine. I also specialize in planning weddings in a very short amount of time. Its a wonderful challenge and you’ll receive no judgement from me about your timelines! There are no geographic limitations. I’m comfortable working remotely for the planning process and have traveled extensively domestically and abroad. I have supported people from all backgrounds in their journey towards a lifetime of love together. I network extensively with other vendors & have a passion for collaboration.

Awarded Best of Zola
Sholeh was a blessing when it came to planning our wedding. Her planning documents were detailed and accurate. They served as the perfect “plan of action” guides…we knew what to do and when. She had recommendations and contact for all vendor needs. There were a few instances when my chosen vendors did not respond timely and she jumped right in to get the answers and confirmations I needed. She was a lifesaver the day of the wedding. She coordinated the setup at the chapel and reception site…I did not have to worry about a thing. Her “emergency kit” came in handy when we had tuxedo button and bustle issues. She was such a pleasure to work with and extremely professional yet personable and reliable. She helped make the planning less stressful and more exciting. Thank you so much Sholeh!
Amber, 5 months ago
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Cylee Catherine Events 
Rating: 5.0 (12 reviews)
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Essex, IL

At Cylee Catherine Events, we believe in planning and coordinating events so that the hosts are able to enjoy the moments that will one day be their favorite memories to look back on. Throughout the planning process, I do my best to listen to your ideas and help bring forward the vision for your special day that you are trying to achieve with a flawless execution.

Awarded Best of Zola
Where to begin! Cylee was recommended to my husband and I through our amazing Dj at 3rd Shift Djs. She proved to be just as fantastic! We met with her regarding month-of planning services, and she definitely delivered. As a pretty spastic person that isn't the biggest fan of planning, I knew I needed someone that could keep me in line when it came to getting final details together and communicate with my vendors. Cylee came and proved why she is the best at her job! She kept us organized, was available via text, facetime, google meetings, etc whenever we needed something. Our wedding day went off without a hitch. I was completely unaware what time it was all day, able to stay in the moment because she was on top of everything and kept us on schedule. I cannot say enough wonderful things about her. She is one of the sweetest people you'll ever meet, she cares deeply about her job and the folks she works with, and she has a keen eye for the details. My husband and I had the best day ever, and Cylee is a huge reason why! If you're looking for someone to help make your day as magical as mine, she's exactly who you're looking for!!! We love her!
Jessica A., 2 months ago
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Liza Loret Events 
Rating: 5.0 (11 reviews)
  • Offers 2 services
  • Starts at $1,800
  • Serves Essex, IL

I am a mother, wife, and business owner. I created Liza Loret Events in 2015, when I wanted to make a difference in the Wedding Industry. My first couple of years, I began to get momentum in how I wanted my business to be structured.

From the moment we started planning our wedding, Liza Loret Events was by our side every step of the way. Her monthly check-ins helped keep us on track and her attention to detail ensured our day went off without a hitch. Liz is an absolute professional, keeping the day running smoothly and handling any issues that arose behind the scenes so we could fully enjoy our celebration. My whole family and bridal party felt so taken care of and loved by her as well. Her hard work and expertise was worth every penny - we honestly couldn't have done it without her. Best vendor decision we made for our wedding was booking with Liza Loret Events. Liz is truly the best in the business, and we are so grateful for the incredible wedding she helped us create. If she is available for your wedding date, BOOK HER NOW!
Amy, a year ago
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Diamonds and Lace Eventscaping LLC 
Rating: 5.0 (9 reviews)
  • Offers 7 services
  • Starts at $1,200
  • Serves Essex, IL

Diamonds and Lace Events reputation reached new heights featured in popular wedding outlets and print/media magazines, Munaluchi Bride, Citizen paper, and Pearl by David’s Bridal, and on Daytime Chicago. which is a testament to our dedicated work and professionalism. We were also requested to create a custom-made jumping broom for Channel 7 TV personality Val Warner and husband Jobba Maxey. Speaking of memorable moments, our team was fortunate enough to have crossed paths with the legendary David Tutera who took the time to come say hello and pose for a picture with us and also Randy Fenoli of “Say Yes to the Dress”.

I booked for Wedding Planning n Coordinating. Best decision I could have ever made! Miss Lita and her staff were awesome from start to finish. She is incredibly business savvy but also warm n friendly at the same time. The knowledge that she has when it comes to contracts and venues is *chef’s kiss* my husband and w encourage you to book immediately!
Tee S., a year ago
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El'Event Weddings 
Rating: 5.0 (7 reviews)
  • Offers 5 services
  • Starts at $500
  • Serves Essex, IL

At El'Event Weddings, we believe in providing services to make your wedding day stunning and unforgettable. For us, affordable prices are what really matter! Having a wedding means a lot of investment, and we want to help you somehow, and not worrying you more. We help busy couples make their dream wedding to come true without feeling overwhelmed. Wedding planning, developing and coordinating are our main priorities. Whether it's a large or small/private event, we would love to be part of it. Every wedding is Unique and amazing results are our best reward!

Working with her was one of the best decisions we made for our wedding day. She puts so much heart, detail, and genuine care into everything she does. From the very beginning, she made us feel supported, understood, and completely taken care of. You can tell she loves what she does every moment, every detail, every interaction is handled with professionalism and kindness. She goes above and beyond to make sure your day is smooth, beautiful, and stress‑free. It’s rare to find someone who treats your wedding day with the same love and attention as if it were her own, but she absolutely does. If you want someone who truly cares, listens, and delivers unforgettable service, Elements Weddings is the one. We are so grateful for her and highly recommend her to any couple looking for a flawless, heartfelt wedding experience.
Ricardo and M., 6 months ago
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Happily Ever After by Amy 
Rating: 5.0 (5 reviews)
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $4,500
  • Serves Essex, IL

I moved to the Aurora / Naperville area in 2016 from Los Angeles, California. While living in L.A. for 17 years, I organized and managed events for countless affairs on behalf of the biggest names in the industry. I made the move back to the Midwest to get closer to my roots, be near loved ones and to start my own business doing what I truly love and excel in – making a bride’s dream a reality.

Awarded Best of Zola
Happily Ever After by Amy was the perfect wedding planning partner for our special day. From the beginning, Amy was efficient, timely, and clear, leaving nothing to question so we had confidence through the entire process. Her work was truly top-notch - She was incredibly knowledgeable about the local vendors, connected us with the best options to fit our vision and budget, and left no detail overlooked. My partner and I live in Minnesota but we had our wedding in Chicago, so it was really important to have someone who knew the local industry very well. We visited Chicago just twice for planning and Amy handled everything else, including the tasting! She seamlessly managed all the vendors, coordination, and onsite management so that our wedding day went off without a hitch. We are so grateful for Amy's expertise and professionalism, making our dream wedding a reality.
Margaret Graham K., a year ago
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Vibe and Voyages 
Rating: 5.0 (3 reviews)
  • Offers 5 services
  • Starts at $750
  • Serves Essex, IL

Vibe & Voyages makes wedding planning feel like a celebration, not a checklist. From your engagement party to the honeymoon send-off, we handle it all: showers, dinners, the big day, and every travel detail. Think chic vibes, flawless logistics, and unforgettable experiences designed just for you. We bring the style, ease, and excitement so you can focus on the best part...living your love story. Your story is our signature experience!

Awarded Best of Zola
My group trip to Jamaica was a ball! Super easy for all my guest to make payments. & the dedicated personal driver you arranged was the cherry on top.
Dariayle, 10 months ago
Wildflower Weddings & Events 
Rating: 5.0 (3 reviews)
  • Offers 4 services
  • Serves Essex, IL

Owner Malia is known for her big heart, style, and attention to detail. Since completing her certification and founding Wildflower Weddings & Events, she has worked with very diverse clients bringing their vision to life. She understands that each wedding is entirely different and will collaborate with you on each element to ensure it tells the unique story of your love. From rehearsal dinners and bachelor and bachelorette parties to romantic ceremonies and receptions, Malia's experience knows no bounds.

Hiring Wildflower aka Malia as our day-of coordinator was one of the best decisions we made for our wedding! She is an absolute rockstar and we knew we could rely on her 100%! Her passion for weddings and making her clients’ day perfect really showed and we are so appreciative of the attention to detail and personal connection we made with her. Thank you for making our day truly amazing and perfect!!
Nicole C., 2 years ago
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Hartz Wedding & Event Planner 
Rating: 5.0 (1 review)
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $1,000
  • Serves Essex, IL

At HARTZ, we believe every love story deserves a beautifully curated celebration. My passion for planning began in childhood, when I organized events in school, as well as large charity events. The true spark came when I planned my own destination wedding in California while living in Chicago—managing every detail from afar. That experience showed me this is what I’m meant to do. With strong organization, creativity, and an eye for detail, I bring heart and harmony to every event, so you can truly enjoy the journey to “I do.”

Hanna was incredible from start to finish. She made the whole planning process so much easier and took care of every little detail. The day itself was absolutely perfect – everything ran smoothly, looked beautiful, and felt totally stress-free for us. We couldn’t have asked for a better planner. Highly recommend her!
Karolina, a year ago
Greater heights marriage rites 
Rating: 5.0 (1 review)
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $1,500
  • Serves Essex, IL

My name is Damilola Oremakinde, and I am a proud Yoruba native from Nigeria. I have always been drawn to the caring profession, with a special passion for cultural enrichment. From a young age, I was inspired by my mother, a retired Alaga (wedding moderator), which ignited my own passion for this role. I truly enjoy helping couples create unforgettable wedding experiences filled with joy, fun, and celebration.

Our guests kept saying how amazing the host was, professional yet warm, with perfect timing and just the right amount of fun. Truly elevated our wedding day!
Simisola D., 7 months ago
GemHidden gem
Destify | Destination Wedding Specialists 
Rating: 4.9 (394 reviews)
  • Offers 2 services
  • Starts at $150
  • Serves Essex, 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
From day one, the team at Destify destination wedding specialists communicated well and responded quickly to all of my questions and concerns. They truly listened to my wants, needs, and priorities, and delivered a high-end, transparent experience that ensured the best care for my wedding day. Destify made it easy for my guests to book and pay slowly with zero interest, which was a huge help. Alexandra was great - she always answered me promptly and I completely trusted her to handle everything. Even when there was a minor hiccup, she quickly resolved it for me. The transition from working with Alexandra to the resort's wedding planner was flawless, ensuring a seamless planning process from start to finish.
Ray², 5 months ago
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Heirloom Event Company 
Rating: 5.0 (96 reviews)
  • Offers 7 services
  • Starts at $1,800
  • Serves Essex, IL

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
Haylie and her team are absolutely incredible to work with. I very quickly got overwhelmed with wedding planning and needed some extra help. Haylie was patient with me as we had several consult calls before we officially booked. She immediately felt like a friend and someone I could trust. I am a type A person and felt nervous to not have total control over the wedding planning process or day. Haylie followed up on every detail, question, and thought. She never let any email or message go unanswered and was attentive to every detail. I felt very secure with her. She allowed me to relax and focus on the fun parts of wedding planning and she handled vendor coordination, logistics, and other things I never even thought of. She was always available and flexible during the planning process. The day of the wedding, everything was so smooth and there were no issues or hiccups. I fully credit Haylie and her team for the seamless day. She went above and beyond to make sure the day was perfect. She is amazing, her team is amazing, and if you want a beautiful, seamless, and low-stress wedding planning process and wedding day, Haylie is your girl!
Lexi P., a year ago
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The Simply Elegant Group 
Rating: 5.0 (86 reviews)
  • Offers 7 services
  • Starts at $1,975
  • Serves Essex, 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
Brenda was amazing to work with from start to finish! She cared about understanding us as a couple and our desires for the wedding. Recommending other vendors that met our budget, our personality and vision. Wedding planning is full of stressful decision making and Brenda coached us through those moments, held us to account, but remained flexible. She’s so sweet, fun, and professional—always on time, always prepared, and somehow made the whole planning process actually enjoyable. She went above and beyond by even unwrapping over 150 wigs that we had forgot about. She was super quick to answer texts and emails, always happy to hop on a call, and kept us on track with a super detailed timeline so nothing ever felt last-minute or rushed. I especially loved her monthly check-ins on the 1st—it kept everything organized and stress-free. Brenda came recommended from a friend’s wedding, and now I get why. Couldn’t have asked for a better planner and I’ll be recommending her to everyone I know.
Nicholas R., 9 months ago
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BW Studio + Events 
Rating: 5.0 (47 reviews)
  • Offers 5 services
  • Starts at $3,800
  • Serves Essex, 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
Blair and her team, Elly and Neva, were lifesavers for our wedding! We met her team during an open house for The Brix, the venue where we had our reception. We found out that my cousin was also working with her for his wedding and he had the most amazing things to say so we knew we were in good hands! Blair is easy to talk to and work with, professional, kind, understanding, and extremely organized! She helped us stick to our budget, coordinate with other vendors, and gave us so many recommendations and options for high quality vendors. Blair is extremely responsive! We loved how quickly she was responding to any questions we had and I also really appreciated the nudges on deadlines! We have extremely busy schedules and we travel often, so the frequent reminders and check-ins were crucial. We were grateful that there were scheduled talks intermittently throughout the planning process. It really helped us manage the timeline and logistics. If you’re a Type-A Bride, you will love the website they put together to help keep things organized (seating chart, vendors etc). On the big day, Blair and her team ensured everything ran smoothly, allowing us to enjoy ourselves. My husband and I highly recommend BW Studio for anyone looking to make their wedding stress-free and memorable!
Rachael, 2 years ago
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Afterglow Weddings and Events 
Rating: 5.0 (36 reviews)
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Essex, 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., 7 months ago
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grayterevents 
Rating: 5.0 (30 reviews)
  • Offers 4 services
  • Starts at $650
  • Serves Essex, 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
Breann did such a great job helping us plan our wedding! My wife and I weren't sure if we wanted to have a month of coordinator, but we are so glad that we hired Breann. She helped my wife and I plan table placement, decoration set up and tear down, and she was prepared for a lot of the little things that we hadn't even thought of. She even brought us a plate of appetizers during our post ceremony photos so we weren't starving before the reception. All of the organization felt like it came so naturally to her and we never had to worry about communication with our vendors or who stands where and when. We had such a beautiful wedding and it ran smoothly thanks to Breann.
Sara, 2 years ago
GemHidden gem
Emily Nuzzo Events 
Rating: 5.0 (25 reviews)
  • Offers 5 services
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Essex, 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
The title says it all... Emily is IN-CRED-I-BLE!!! We worked with Emily for well over a year on our wedding and she handled anything and everything that we needed help with. Whether it was finding vendors/venues and contacting them, handling paperwork, setting up calls, tours, etc., Emily put our mind at ease with it and took care of it. She's also incredibly personable and fun to talk to! By the time our wedding came, it was bittersweet because we had looked forward to our weekly calls with her! On the day of our wedding Emily was a superhero..... She helped set things up, make sure everything ran smoothly, helped tear down at the end of the night, and packed our car with decorations and things we had brought for us so we had nothing to worry about. We HIGHLY highly highly (I'll say again) HIGHLY recommend hiring Emily for ANY event, but definitely hire her if you're getting married!! We recommended her to all of our friends—she truly helped make our wedding an incredible experience!!
Marlena E., 2 years ago
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Marryment 
Rating: 5.0 (24 reviews)
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $2,495
  • Serves Essex, 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
Denise and her team were such a pleasure to work with! As a photographer I’m able to almost go on autopilot when working with Marryment because I know they are on top of every small detail! From the flatlay, to the dress, the fine details of the timeline, etc. This might be an overstatement, but it also seems that Marryment has a huge following from word of mouth and not from a bunch of mindless advertising. That tells me one thing that is most important for any planner to have with couples…Trust! Every couple knows undoubtedly that their day is in great hands with Marryment! If I had money on the line I would put my money on them any day of the weekend!
Just Focused W., 8 months ago
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Thyme & Details 
Rating: 5.0 (23 reviews)
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Essex, 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
Working with Thyme & Details was a dream come true for our wedding day. Dana and her team were prompt, professional and completely focused on making our vision a reality. Their excellent work and attention to detail resulted in so many compliments from our guests. Dana and her team were prepared for everything, seamlessly collaborating with our other vendors and the venue to ensure the day went off without a hitch. As the mother of the bride, I was able to relax and enjoy the entire day without a single worry, as the Thyme & Details team took care of absolutely every detail. The bride was present, relaxed and happy the entire day thanks to their hard work. We would highly recommend this vendor to any couple planning their wedding.
Jenni C., 2 years ago
GemHidden gem
The Bailey Experience Wedding and Event Co 
Rating: 4.3 (22 reviews)
  • Offers 5 services
  • Starts at $2,500
  • Serves Essex, 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., 8 months ago
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Honorary Bridesmaid 
Rating: 5.0 (21 reviews)
  • Offers 6 services
  • Starts at $1,650
  • Serves Essex, 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., 8 months ago
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Center of Attention 
Rating: 5.0 (20 reviews)
  • Offers 1 service
  • Starts at $600
  • Serves Essex, IL

With over 20 years of experience and a genuine love for planning and organization, I am a bilingual (English–Spanish) Day-of Coordinator who helps bring calm and structure to important events. By day, I work as a Medical Program Coordinator, and now I’m excited to be building my own coordination business—doing what I love most: managing details, supporting clients, and making sure everything comes together seamlessly.

Maggie was wonderful to work with. Working with her felt like we knew each other for years! The ways she connects with her clients is beautiful! I wouldn’t have done it without her! She made sure our day ran smoothly, and made sure everything was just how I envisioned it. Thank you Maggie you are truly the best! Please book Maggie as your day of coordinator for your wedding you won’t be disappointed! ️
Brittany P., 2 months ago
GemHidden gem
Shh Events 
Rating: 5.0 (18 reviews)
  • Offers 4 services
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Essex, 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.

As a venue director, I am always more at ease knowing Shh Events is in the building! The owner Stephanie has coordinated many events with us and every time they run smoothly from start to finish. From initially booking through the day of the event, communicating with Shh Events is always timely and thorough. Not to mention seeing Stephanie and co. execute their events is a fun watch! They can easily pivot when things change and you can tell they enjoy what they do, which translates to the guests. The Shh Events team is always welcome!
Kara R. , 2 years ago
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Handled by Hamlin Events 
Rating: 5.0 (17 reviews)
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $275
  • Serves Essex, 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
Monarch Creative Events 
Rating: 5.0 (17 reviews)
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $3,800
  • Serves Essex, 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
Alexa is a true professional with her work and I knew from the moment we spoke to her that she was the one we wanted to work with. We interviewed several planners that did not come close to Alexa’s level of expertise and ability to make you feel calm and in good hands. If I was able to re-do my wedding again, I may change a few vendors, but Alexa is someone we would lock down over and over again! Hands down the best decision we made! Alexa is reliable, professional, friendly, and most importantly organized! We immediately had a guide on where to start and where we should be with our process each month. Alexa was available to us for any questions or doubts we might have, and made the most stressful months leading up to our wedding stress free. She always asked questions we didn’t think to ask. She took the lead with our vendors and ensuring we never missed a step, but most importantly Alexa was always positive, kind, and composed during every meeting we had. She made me feel at ease and relaxed, which says a lot when someone is planning a wedding. The day of our wedding we always knew what was going to happen next and even when something unexpected would come up, Alexa was quick to resolve it. Not only did my husband and I feel thankful for hiring Monarch, but my family was also left impressed and thankful for Alexa. Hiring a wedding planner is the best decision you can make, but if you hire Monarch, they will make it possible for you to be stress free leading up to your wedding and allow you to focus on being present in the moment. Thank you Alexa and Monarch!! You made the impossible possible and allowed us to enjoy our wedding stress free!
Vanessa M., 10 months ago
Quick responder
Anemone Events 
Rating: 5.0 (16 reviews)
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $2,100
  • Serves Essex, 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., a year ago