Ava GabouryNot too long ago, my cousin’s self-planned “low-key backyard bash” for her 30th birthday ended up being a full-blown circus. The patio tent collapsed on her cake; someone set off accidental fireworks and her dog dove headfirst into the buffet.
Needless to say, it was a night to remember—or forget, depending on how you look at it. This catastrophe taught me a lesson: it’s best to leave the party planning to the pros.
So, not wanting any future events I throw to be a shipwreck, I got some help from the Waterview Vancouver team in finding the best event planners in Vancouver. We did our research and spoke with several planners and their satisfied (and sometimes star-struck) customers.
Whether you’re planning a grand affair or a simple soirée, here’s our roundup of Vancouver’s top event planners who can make your dream event a stress-free reality.
| How much does it cost to hire an event planner in Vancouver? Hiring an event planner in Vancouver costs at least 2,000 CAD. The final price will vary depending on the type of event, the number of people invited, and the event planner you choose. |
How We Chose
1. CountDown Events Planning + Design
Address: 1685 Chestnut St #338, Vancouver, BC V6J 4M6, Canada
Contact Details: +16047608388
Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday – 11 AM to 4:30 PM
CountDown Events Planning + Design is known for their top-tier luxury events. Many of the brides we spoke with raved about their luxurious weddings and stress-free coordination.
When it comes to company events, these planners do everything from small and cosy company lunches to glammed-up VIP parties. Their clients love that every little detail is accounted for—food, decor, and even the entertainment!
We also noted that they particularly have a knack for retail launches. In fact, big brands like Christian Dior and Rolex trust them with their Canadian launch events!
Businesses we talked to also shared with us that their meticulous planning, spot-on vendor coordination, and flawless on-site management made their launch successful.
Some people, though, found the initial consultations overwhelming because of all the options thrown at them. But many said that once decisions were made, the process became smoother and more enjoyable.
Pros
- Specialise in luxury events
- Awesome bridal styling
- Experts in retail launches
- Good at vendor coordination
- Manages events smoothly
- Does fashion shows and photoshoots
Cons
- Initial consultations can be overwhelming
We can not recommend Jenny and countdown highly enough
“We recently employed the services of countdown events for our wedding. We were assigned Jenny as our event planner as she had come highly recommended by a good friend. Her event management and organization skills, attention to detail, knowledge and professionalism were second to none. All her recommendations and contacts were excellent. Weddings can be extremely stressful but Jenny’s calming demeanour and problem solving abilities ensured that not only was the event flawless but also we were able to enjoy every moment of our special day completely stress free! We can not recommend Jenny and countdown highly enough. If you are looking for the best look no further.”
– Ava Clogg Google Review
Worked seamlessly behind the scenes to ensure the event was flawless
“We are honoured to partner with CountDown Events for our annual charity fundraising event: The White Envelope Event. Soha and Jenny were instrumental in bringing our vision to life. We were able to lean on their impeccable relationships in the industry to curate an amazing roster of catering, decor and operational partners to produce one of the most unique and special events in the country. The day of the event was seamless – Soha, Jenny and their amazing team worked seamlessly behind the scenes to ensure the event was flawless. CountDown Events is a world class event production team – very client focussed and responsive. Soha and Jenny’s depth of experience allows them to anticipate and tackle any and all client needs and challenges that may arise with composure, grace and ease. They are amazing humans and wonderful to work with. Hands down the best in the industry – we would highly recommend working them!
– Michelle Chiu Google Review
2. Umbrella Events
Address: 756 Great Northern Way, Vancouver, BC V5T 1E4, Canada
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Everyone we spoke to about Umbrella Events loved their thorough and reliable approach. From what we’ve seen from their portfolio, they handle all sorts of events with care, from start to finish.
Their wedding packages range from full-service planning to month-of-coordination. They can also do proposal services. Couples love working with them because of how hands-on and supportive they are, which helps make their big day stress-free.
Other clients also praised their capabilities in managing corporate events. Several PR executives raved about their seamless handling of product launches. They’re also always praised for their adeptness at juggling venues for holiday parties.
And yes, they also have a knack for creating memorable parties: birthdays, anniversaries, and more. From what we’ve been told, their budget management and decor concepts make parties stand out.
LGBTQ+ clients also have very positive experiences with them. They feel genuinely understood and comfortable, thanks to the founder Cristie’s open gayness. She’s able to build trust and help many hold the event of their dreams.
Pros
- Handle every detail with care
- Variety of wedding packages
- Hands-on and supportive staff
- Great for corporate events
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Cons
- Occasional communication lags
We felt constantly supported
“We worked with Cindy to plan our 10 year Anniversary/Vow Renewal Ceremony and it turned out better than we ever could have imagined! We felt constantly supported and her determination to execute our day without a hitch was extremely successful. She managed to plan everything remotely from Vancouver with the event taking place in Florida with no issue. We were in constant communication throughout the entire process, she even called in virtually to our tasting to help us decide our menu. She was able to keep us organized, find all the vendors, assist with my invitations, design my signage, edit an entrance video from a tiktok inspiration I found and truly execute my vision all within my budget. Three weeks prior to the event my venue underwent unexpected renovations and we had to change our entire plan and space. Needless to say, we were incredibly stressed, but Cindy’s communication skills and solution focused thought process puts her above the rest. She fought for us and as a result we felt we received more compensation than we thought possible. She managed to negotiate upgrades that truly elevated our event. Her presence, professionalism and organization allowed us to enjoy every moment, and my Husband and I cannot thank her enough for making our day truly magical and one for the books.”
– Amelia Google Review
She gave us the wedding of our dreams
“Umbrella Events is the best in the business! We would absolutely recommend using Umbrella Events for your wedding. Cristie did such an amazing job from the moment we started the planning journey together. Multiple times throughout this journey, we mentioned to each other that if there was no Cristie, there will be no wedding LOL! She gave us the wedding of our dreams and stayed within the budget. She executed so well that it very much exceeded our expectations. Every morning I wake up thinking of our wedding. We could not be happier with our decision to hire Umbrella Events!”
– Meeka Raissa Google Review
3. Filosophi Events
Address: 1231 Pacific Blvd #477, Vancouver, BC V6Z 0E2, Canada
Contact Details: +16048093746
Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Filosophi Events operates from the unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples, but they handle destination events throughout Vancouver and worldwide. They manage everything from A to Z, including vendor coordination, decor, and day-of execution.
Many we spoke to raved about Filosophi’s elopement planning. They set up plans, source necessary vendors, and even use an iPhone to stream the ceremony to loved ones. Their clients love how they make that special day hassle-free, romantic, and memorable.
But Filosophi’s versatility extends beyond weddings and elopement. They’re equally adept at corporate events and private parties. Several clients commended their seamless handling of conferences, parties, and launches.
And for those who prefer to handle most of the planning themselves, Filosophi’s à la carte services are quite useful. Whether it’s venue sourcing, budget planning, or decor design, they offer help on a task-by-task basis.
This flexible approach has been a lifesaver for many needing just a bit of expert advice without committing to a full package.
Pros
- Handles all kinds of events
- A-la-carte services are available
- Makes events stress-free
- Flexible planners
Cons
- Full wedding packages can be pricey
Was always responsive to emails and questions
“Best wedding decision ever! We worked with Margaux at Filosophi – she was absolutely amazing. We hired her for the Takeover package. She provided fantastic recommendations of vendors throughout the planning process. She was always responsive to emails and questions and she was so incredibly organized. She kept us on top of all the things we didn’t even know to think about! And she absolutely brought our wedding dreams to LIFE! She helped us create a day that was personal and special to us. I was blown away with how beautiful they made our decor in our venue. And most importantly, she allowed my husband and I to be 100% present during our wedding day. The day went off without a hitch and I didn’t think about the schedule or the logistics once.”
– Elizabeth Purssell Google Review
Honestly a lifesaver and it was the best decision we made to hire her
“We booked Bethany as our take over coordinator and we can only say amazing things about her! She was incredibly patient with me as I relinquished control of the wedding to her in the final 6 weeks leading up to the wedding. Bethany always answered her emails in a timely manner and was quick to get in touch with vendors when I had any changes to make. During the wedding, I was able to just let go and focus on the day while she and her team took care of the rest. If there were hiccups on the day, I didn’t even know they existed! She was honestly a lifesaver and it was the best decision we made to hire her! If you’re planning your wedding on your own without a full time planner, SPEND the money and hire a take over coordinator immediately! And if you’re wondering who to hire, then we recommend Filosophi and Bethany without any reservation! Thank you to Margaux and Filosophi Events for all you did that allowed us to have the most magical wedding!”
– Katarina Bogosavljevic Google Review
4. VESTI Events Inc.
Address: 999 Seymour St, Vancouver, BC V6B 0M5, Canada
Contact Details: +16046554959
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM
If you want to impress your corporate clients or bring your team closer together, VESTI has you covered with their corporate event offerings.
Think grand ballrooms decked out to the nines and private yachts for the more extravagant crowds. And we love that they also tailor unique experiences, like hands-on cooking classes and intense problem-solving games.
Many people we spoke with couldn’t stop raving about their hybrid events, especially during the pandemic era. They talked about not having to worry about technical glitches during an important virtual corporate launch.
VESTI provides a solid platform for hosting virtual events that keeps everyone connected, no matter where they are. So, most businesses we spoke with felt confident and secure—no worries about hacking or poor audio.
The only complaint we’ve heard from some is that the planning phase could be smoother with quicker updates.
Pros
- Custom fancy events
- Great for hybrid events
- No tech problems for virtual events
- Safe and secure virtual events
Cons
- Slow updates during planning
Professional, on-the-ball and approaches your event with a take-charge attitude
“Eugenia is exceptional at what she does. Having worked with a number of event management vendors, Eugenia is certainly in a league of her own. She is professional, on-the-ball and approaches your event with a take-charge attitude. We had an incredibly ambitious timeline and event plan, and Eugenia showed up and made us feel at ease. Her extensive experience , creative industry contacts really took our plans to the next level, and she never missed a detail. To top it all off, she’s super fun and friendly. I fully recommend working with her.”
– Adam Brayford Google Review
Thanks to Eugenia, we stayed on schedule, nothing was missed
“Eugenia worked tirelessly to help my husband and I plan the most perfect wedding! She kept me calm as the day approached and did so much work behind the scenes to ensure the day ran smoothly. And it did! Thanks to Eugenia, we stayed on schedule, nothing was missed, and she remained calm, cool, and collected. I would recommend EG Event Productions to anyone who wants to throw an unforgettable party or plan an incredible event! Choosing EG Event Productions was the best choice we made! Thank you, Eugenia!”
– Valdon McKinnon Google Review
5. Smitten Events
Address: 847 15th St E, North Vancouver, BC V7M 2E6, Canada
Contact Details: +16043287502
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
If you’re looking for a team to bring your event vision to life—no matter how big or small—Smitten Events is a solid choice.
From what we’ve gathered, their strength lies in their versatility. Whether you want a full-blown, immersive launch party for your new product or a cosy and intimate baby shower, they’ve got you covered.
Everyone mentioned how they handled everything, from the big picture right down to the tiniest detail. Their project management skills are top-notch, which means less stress for you. Who wouldn’t want that?
Plus, their experience with over 400 weddings alone speaks volumes. Many couples praised them for their nuanced design acumen, which made their weddings not just events but beautifully memorable experiences.
That said, some felt that their services were a bit pricy, especially for smaller and more intimate affairs. Some also wished for a little more flexibility in last-minute changes.
Pros
- Handles big and small events
- Good at managing all the details
- Lots of experience with weddings
- Good at finding vendors
Cons
- Can be expensive
- Not super flexible with changes
Customer Reviews
They chose incredible vendors who know what they’re doing
“We’re *so darn* grateful for Jordan + Devon at Smitten Events, for not only your timeline spreadsheets and checklists, but for allowing us to really enjoy our wedding and all of its moments.
Once you start getting your hair and makeup done, you truly realize how important that is to have them take the reins day-of. You can be as organized as can be, but that day feels like a thousand moments and decisions are happening all at once, so having those two brought so much relief.
Honestly, I was fairly stress-free and got to truly embrace that day, knowing it has to do with choosing incredible vendors who know what they’re doing. Thank you! M+D”
– Megan White Google Review
They handled every detail, big and small, with such care and precision
“I can’t say enough wonderful things about Sarah and Jenn and their team at Smitten. From the very beginning, I knew we were in good hands. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and creativity made our wedding day absolutely perfect. They handled every detail, big and small, with such care and precision. The vendor recommendations were spot on, and they coordinated everything seamlessly, allowing us to enjoy our day without any stress. If you’re looking for a wedding planner who will go above and beyond to make your day special, look no further than the team at Smitten.”
– Meryl Hershfield Google Review
