New York City is a global hub for unforgettable events of all kinds. There’s always a reason to celebrate in the Big Apple. And some of the most visionary event planners create magic behind the scenes here. From high-profile corporate conferences to star-studded galas and luxury weddings, these professionals shape experiences that captivate and inspire. Check out these event planners who can transform your event into a masterpiece.
1. Erica Maurer – The Powerhouse Behind EMRG Media
Client List: Google, BuzzFeed, Robin Hood Foundation, WeWork
Erica Maurer is a dominant force in the NYC event planning industry. As a partner at EMRG Media, she orchestrates some of the most high-profile events in NYC. She’s the trusted partner for corporate events, experiential activations, and social gatherings. And her expertise extends way beyond planning. She’s also the visionary behind The Event Planner Expo, a premier networking event that brings together top event professionals in the industry.Â
💡FAQ About Erica Mauer: What’s her secret to a standout event? Personalization, wow factor, top-tier vendor relationships, and a keen eye for detail. There’s more than a few reasons why she’s at the top of our best-of event planners list.
2. Colin Cowie – The Celebrity Event Architect
Client List: Oprah Winfrey, Jennifer Lopez, Tom Cruise, Kim Kardashian
Colin Cowie is synonymous with luxury, designing events that radiate elegance and sophistication. This is the call you make when planning over-the-top VIP events. His signature style seamlessly blends glamour with innovation, making him the go-to planner for Hollywood A-listers and global elites. From intimate soirees to grand productions, Cowie’s ability to transform spaces into extraordinary settings is unmatched.
💡FAQ About Colin Cowie: How much does it cost to work with him? Custom luxury experiences range from high six to seven figures.
3. Amy Shey Jacobs – The Creative Visionary Behind Chandelier Events
Client List: The Knot, Whispering Angel, Target, L’Oréal
Amy Shey Jacobs of Chandelier Events is a master of immersive experiences, curating events that leave a lasting impression. Her work is known for its stunning visual appeal, combining elegant aesthetics with powerful storytelling. You’ll recognize her work from high-energy product launches to unforgettable weddings. She creates moments designed to truly captivate the crowd. Her work’s beauty lives in the details, often going viral.
💡FAQ About Amy Shey Jacobs: What’s her specialty? Unique, Instagram-worthy event moments that go viral.
4. Marcy Blum – The Luxury Wedding and Event Icon
Client List: LeBron James, Billy Joel, The Rockefeller Family
Marcy Blum is a true pioneer in the world of luxury event planning. You might remember her as a Keynote Speaker at last year’s Event Planner Expo. With a background in theatrical production, she infuses her events with an artistic flair. And her experiences feel both elegant and entertaining. Her signature style is a blend of traditional favorites and event innovation, making her a sought-after planner for high-profile weddings and elite celebrations.Â
💡FAQ About Marcy Blum: What type of events does she focus on? High-end weddings, luxury celebrations, and VIP experiences.
5. RCG Events – The Experts in Elevated Experiences
Client List: Fortune 500 companies, Socialites, Luxury Brands
Led by Rebecca Gardner, RCG Events crafts one-of-a-kind experiences that blend culture, art, and entertainment. Their events are known for being unexpected yet unforgettable. And they push the boundaries of creativity without compromising that polished and refined feel.Â
💡FAQ About RCG Events: How far in advance should you book them? At least 6 to 12 months for major events.
6. David Monn – The Event Master of Atmosphere
Client List: White House, The Met Gala, Cartier, The New York Public Library
David Monn is renowned for his ability to craft environments that stimulate all the senses. His signature event design fuses architecture, floral artistry, and immersive storytelling. And his events feel like stepping into a dream. Every element, including light, scent, sound, and texture, is meticulously produced.
💡FAQ About David Monn: What makes his approach unique? A focus on multi-sensory experiences that immerse guests completely.
7. Jes Gordon – The Rockstar Event Designer
Client List: HBO, Vogue, Louis Vuitton, MoMA
Jes Gordon is known for her edgy yet sophisticated event designs. She brings bold creativity to all her projects. She has a flair for transforming spaces with vibrant aesthetics, unique layouts, and a touch of the unexpected. Whether it’s an immersive brand activation, a stylish corporate event, or an unconventional wedding, her events always leave a lasting impression.
💡FAQ About Jes Gordon: Does she do weddings? Yes, but only for clients looking for something nontraditional and high energy.
8. Jung Lee – The Trendsetter in NYC Luxury Events
Client List: Chanel, Valentino, Vanity Fair, Private Clients
Jung Lee is a master of creating bespoke luxury experiences that exude sophistication and style. This is who you call for the truly upscale experience. With a background in hospitality and design, she understands how to set the perfect mood for literally any occasion. Her events are a seamless blend of modern elegance and dramatic details, making her a favorite among the fashion and entertainment elite. It’s why she’s one of the top event planners in NYC.
💡FAQ About Jung Lee: What’s her event design style? A blend of modern minimalism with lush, dramatic accents.
9. Bronson van Wyck – The Man Behind the Most Exclusive Events and Parties
Client List: Beyoncé, Presidents, Top CEOs, High Profile Philanthropists
You’ll be hard-pressed to find anyone who hasn’t heard about this top event professional. Bronson van Wyck is the ultimate architect of ultra-exclusive events. His signature style blends old-world glamour with contemporary sophistication. And it’s his key to making every affair unforgettable. From private presidential gatherings to high society galas, his events are legendary and often shrouded in secrecy, ensuring the highest level of discretion for his elite clientele.
💡FAQ About Bronson van Wyck: How private are his events? Most are off-the-record, invite-only affairs for the world’s elite.
10. Rafanelli Events – The Storyteller of Social and Corporate Events
Client List: Barack Obama, Chelsea Clinton, Tiffany & Co.
Led by Bryan Rafanelli, Rafanelli Events is known for weaving compelling narratives into each event. Their work goes beyond logistics. It’s about creating meaningful experiences that evoke emotion and leave lasting memories. Whether it’s a high-profile wedding, a corporate gala, or a luxury brand launch, their meticulous planning and storytelling set them apart.
💡FAQ About Rafanelli Events: What’s their design philosophy? Events should evoke emotion and leave a lasting memory.
Learn More from the Best this October at The Event Planner Expo 2025!
Want to connect with NYC’s top event planners, learn from industry leaders, and elevate your own event planning game? The Event Planner Expo 2025 is the place to be.
Secure your spot now! Become an exhibitor on the high-energy tradeshow floor, where you’ll meet these experts, network with top professionals, and take your events to the next level.
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