Event Planning: An Overview
Event planning is the process of organizing and coordinating all aspects of an event, from initial concept to final execution. This includes weddings, corporate gatherings, galas, fundraisers, birthday parties, and special celebrations. Professional event planners handle logistics, vendor coordination, design, timeline management, and on-site execution to ensure seamless, memorable experiences.
Core Concepts of Event Planning
There are several primary approaches to event planning services:
Full-Service Planning: The planner manages every aspect of your event from start to finish, including venue selection, vendor negotiations, design, budgeting, and day-of coordination.
Best for: Couples or organizations wanting a stress-free experience with complete professional oversight.
Partial Planning: The planner assists with specific elements of the event while the client handles other aspects independently.
Best for: Those who have already made some decisions but need professional guidance to bring everything together.
Day-Of Coordination: The planner takes over management in the final weeks leading up to the event and handles all logistics on the event day.
Best for: DIY planners who want professional execution without full planning services.
Destination Management: Specialized services for out-of-town events, including venue sourcing, local vendor connections, transportation, and activity planning.
Best for: Corporate groups, conventions, and destination weddings requiring local expertise.
Top 3 Event Planning Companies in Nashville, TN
1. Big Events, Inc.
Best For: Large-scale corporate events, galas, non-profit fundraisers, and clients seeking a full-service destination management company.
Philosophy: Comprehensive, full-service approach with over 25 years of experience. They combine visionary design with expert logistics and production to create cohesive, memorable events.
Services:
Event Management: Corporate events, non-profit galas, social celebrations, product launches.
Destination Management (DMC): Group transportation, venue sourcing, activity planning, Nashville experiences.
Wedding Planning: Full-service wedding coordination through Big Events Wedding division, including in-house floral design.
Design & Production: Custom decor, lighting, rentals, linens, and complete event styling.
Notable Clients: Frist Art Museum, CMA, Cheekwood, Junior League of Nashville, Nashville Symphony, Swan Ball.
Location: Nashville, TN (serves greater Nashville area and beyond).
Contact: (615) 371-1223 | [email protected] | bigeventsinc.com
Pricing: Custom quotes based on event scope and requirements. Contact for consultation.
2. AmosEvents
Best For: Luxury weddings, high-end galas, corporate celebrations, and clients seeking award-winning design with personalized attention.
Philosophy: Creative, design-forward approach combining florals, direction, and production to create innovative, personal, and flawlessly executed events. Named Nashville’s Best Event Planner by Nashville Scene and Nfocus magazine multiple years.
Services:
Wedding Planning: Full-service wedding coordination, micro weddings, destination weddings, vendor relationships, contract negotiations.
In-House Floral Design: Custom bouquets, boutonnieres, centerpieces, and ceremony florals.
Corporate Events: Fortune 500 events, product launches, company celebrations.
Social Events: Dinner parties, baby showers, luncheons, bar/bat mitzvahs, birthdays, anniversaries.
Design & Production: Space design, lighting, decor curation, complete event styling.
Founder: Amos Gott (Chief Event Architect), 20+ years experience.
Recognition: Nashville’s Best Event Planner (Nashville Scene & Nfocus), Editor’s Pick by The Knot, finalist for National Association of Catering and Events and BizBash Style Awards.
Location: P.O. Box 92364, Nashville, TN 37209.
Contact: (615) 481-7900 | amosevents.com
Pricing: Custom quotes based on event scope. Complimentary consultations available.
3. Laurie D’Anne Events
Best For: Luxury weddings, CMA afterparties, corporate events, and clients seeking personalized full-service planning with 17+ years of industry experience.
Philosophy: Client-focused luxury event design that transforms dreams into reality. Known for meticulous attention to detail and creating unforgettable, personalized experiences.
Services:
Full-Service Wedding Planning: Complete planning from engagement to wedding day, including dedicated staff, vendor coordination, and day-of management.
Partial Planning: Assistance with specific elements while clients handle other aspects.
Month-Of Coordination (“Oh No!” Planning): Last-minute professional assistance for DIY planners.
Corporate Events: Industry events, CMA afterparties, product launches, company celebrations.
Event Design & Styling: Custom decor, lighting, floral coordination, venue transformation.
Destination Weddings: Planning services available worldwide.
Founder: Laurie Hardman, 17+ years experience, 500+ luxury events planned.
Location: 3820 Charlotte Ave, Suite 146 (inside Collective615), Nashville, TN 37209.
Contact: lauriedeanneevents.com
- Pricing: Packages range from month-of coordination to full-service planning. Contact for custom quotes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How far in advance should I book an event planner in Nashville?
For weddings and large events, it is recommended to book your planner 12 to 18 months in advance, especially for popular dates. For corporate events and smaller celebrations, 3 to 6 months is typically sufficient. However, availability varies, so contacting planners as early as possible is always advisable.
2. What is the difference between an Event Planner and a Destination Management Company (DMC)?
An event planner focuses on coordinating the details of your specific event, such as weddings or corporate functions. A Destination Management Company (DMC) specializes in providing local expertise for groups visiting a city, including venue sourcing, transportation, activities, and local experiences. Some companies, like Big Events, Inc., offer both services.
3. What should I expect during an initial consultation with an event planner?
During your initial consultation, the planner will discuss your vision, budget, guest count, and preferred style. They will explain their services, pricing structure, and planning process. This is also your opportunity to ask questions and determine if the planner is a good fit for your needs and personality.
4. Do event planners in Nashville handle vendor negotiations and contracts?
Yes, most full-service event planners handle vendor research, recommendations, negotiations, and contract review. They often have established relationships with trusted local vendors, which can result in better pricing and priority booking. Planners ensure all contracts align with your budget and protect your interests.
5. Can event planners accommodate specific cultural or religious traditions?
Absolutely. Professional event planners in Nashville have experience coordinating a wide variety of cultural and religious ceremonies, including civil unions, multi-faith weddings, destination weddings, and military weddings. During your consultation, discuss any specific traditions or requirements so your planner can incorporate them seamlessly into your event.