Best Santa Barbara Wedding Planners

Planning your wedding is supposed to be a joyous and exciting time, but we all know how quickly it can turn into a logistical headache. Between choosing vendors, managing timelines, and making sure everything runs smoothly on the big day, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where a professional wedding planner steps in, taking the stress off your shoulders and allowing you to truly enjoy this special moment. As a Santa Barbara wedding photographer, I’ve worked with some incredible planners who know how to turn your vision into reality. Below, you’ll find a curated list of some of the best wedding planners in Santa Barbara who bring expertise, creativity, and a calm presence to your wedding day.

Whether you’re looking for someone to handle every detail or just need some guidance along the way, these planners have you covered. Let’s dive into what makes these Santa Barbara wedding planners stand out.

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Recommended Wedding Planners in Santa Barbara

Megan Rose Events

Where Laid-Back Meets Professionalism

Megan Rose Events is all about blending a relaxed, stress-free vibe with flawless execution. Megan and her partner, Nelson, specialize in creating a wedding experience where you’re involved in the process without feeling buried under planning details. They focus on ensuring everything runs like clockwork, allowing you to actually savor every moment of your engagement and wedding day.

Pro Tip: When meeting with Megan, ask about her favorite hidden gem venues in the Santa Barbara area. Her local expertise can lead you to some incredible locations that perfectly suit your wedding style.

Starting Price: Typically between $850 and $1,750 per guest
Google Review Rating: 5.0 (27 reviews)
Website: meganroseevents.com

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Tricia Dahlgren Events

Personalized Planning for Every Couple

Located in Santa Rita, California, Tricia Dahlgren Events offers a range of wedding planning services from day-of consulting to full-service coordination. Tricia and her team are known for being incredibly attentive, ensuring that every couple feels supported throughout the planning journey. Their packages are custom-quoted based on your specific needs, making it easy to tailor their services to your dream wedding.

Pro Tip: When discussing packages, ask Tricia about adding extra hands on deck from her large and experienced team. It’s a game-changer, especially if you’re planning a larger celebration.

Starting Price: Custom-quoted
Google Review Rating: 5.0 (12 reviews)
Website: triciadahlgrenevents.com

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Delicate Details

Elegance and Luxury in Every Detail

Delicate Details is based in Los Angeles but frequently brings its touch of luxury to Santa Barbara weddings. Led by Maryam, this team is known for creating elegant, detail-oriented events that leave brides beaming with happiness. Whether you’re dreaming of a glamorous ballroom affair or a sophisticated garden wedding, Delicate Details knows how to execute with grace and precision.

Pro Tip: Delicate Details is your go-to if you’re aiming for a high-end, luxurious vibe. Be sure to ask Maryam about her best tips for incorporating personalized, elegant touches into your wedding decor.

Starting Price: Custom-quoted
Address: 19081 Kilfinan St, Porter Ranch, CA 91326
Google Review Rating: 5.0 (2 reviews)
Website: delicate-details.com

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AK Brides

Decades of Experience, Seamless Execution

Serving the Santa Barbara area from LA, AK Brides has been creating smooth, stress-free wedding experiences for over 20 years. Led by Anita, this team brings warmth, professionalism, and dedication to every event they plan. They’re perfect for couples who want an experienced hand guiding them through each stage of the wedding process.

Pro Tip: If you’re worried about unexpected hiccups on your big day, having a planner like Anita—who’s seen it all—is invaluable. She’s known for her calm demeanor, even in high-pressure situations.

Website: akbrides.com

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Ann Johnson Events

Timeless and Elegant Celebrations

Ann Johnson Events is a well-known name in the Santa Barbara wedding scene, specializing in elegant and timeless celebrations. Ann and her team bring a wealth of experience and a keen eye for detail to every event they plan. Their expertise ensures your wedding is not only beautifully styled but also meticulously organized, leaving you free to fully enjoy your day.

Pro Tip: If you’re dreaming of a venue with historical significance, Ann’s knowledge of Santa Barbara’s most iconic locations will come in handy. Be sure to ask for her recommendations.

Website: annjohnsonevents.com

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To Be Loved Events

Modern Romance with a Personal Touch

To Be Loved Events specializes in creating modern, romantic weddings with a touch of whimsy. Led by Samantha, the team is known for turning love stories into unforgettable events, personalized down to the smallest detail. Their warm, hands-on approach ensures couples feel supported and excited throughout the planning process.

Pro Tip: For couples who want to blend tradition with personal flair, Samantha’s knack for creative details is unmatched. Ask her about ways to incorporate your own unique story into the wedding design.

Website: tobelovedevents.com

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Ebeling Events

Expert Coordination with a Flair for Design

Ebeling Events brings together expert coordination and beautiful event design, ensuring your wedding is both stylish and stress-free. Kim and her team are dedicated to transforming your vision into reality, whether you’re going for a minimalist look or a more extravagant celebration.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning a wedding with a lot of custom details, Kim of Ebeling Events is known for executing unique designs flawlessly. Be sure to ask for their creative ideas.

Website: annjohnsonevents.com

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Amazing Day Events

Stress-Free Planning, Unforgettable Weddings

Amazing Day Events focuses on creating a seamless and enjoyable planning experience for couples, resulting in a beautifully coordinated wedding day. Led by Sophie, this team is known for their thorough attention to detail and calm demeanor, even in high-pressure situations.

Pro Tip: Sophie is known for her ability to keep things stress-free. If you’re worried about getting overwhelmed, her approach will keep you focused on what matters most—enjoying your wedding day.

Website: amazingdaysevents.com

Santa Barbara Wedding Planner FAQ

How much does a wedding planner in Santa Barbara typically cost?
The cost for a wedding planner in Santa Barbara can vary widely depending on the level of service you need. On average, full-service planning can range from $8,000 to $15,000, while day-of coordination might be more budget-friendly, typically starting around $2,500.

When should I book a wedding planner in Santa Barbara?
It’s recommended to book your wedding planner as early as possible, ideally 12-18 months before your wedding date. Popular planners can book up quickly, especially during peak wedding season from May to October.

What’s the difference between full-service planning and day-of coordination?
Full-service planning involves the wedding planner guiding you through the entire process, from choosing your venue and vendors to designing your event and managing logistics. Day-of coordination is more focused on executing your already-planned wedding, ensuring that everything runs smoothly on the day itself without you having to worry.

Do Santa Barbara wedding planners work with out-of-town couples?
Yes! Many Santa Barbara wedding planners are experienced in working with couples who are planning destination weddings in the area. They can provide virtual consultations and handle much of the coordination on your behalf, making it easy to plan your dream wedding from afar.

What should I ask a wedding planner during the initial consultation?
Key questions include asking about their experience with your chosen venue, how they handle unexpected issues, their planning style, and what’s included in their packages. You’ll also want to discuss their availability on your wedding date and how they prefer to communicate during the planning process.

Can a wedding planner help me stay within my budget?
Absolutely! One of the major benefits of hiring a wedding planner is their ability to manage your budget effectively. They can recommend vendors that fit your financial plan and suggest areas where you can save without compromising on quality.

What are the benefits of hiring a local Santa Barbara wedding planner?
Local planners have in-depth knowledge of the area’s venues, vendors, and unique logistics, such as weather patterns and transportation challenges. Their connections can often lead to better vendor deals and more seamless coordination on your wedding day.

Will a wedding planner help with design and decor, or do I need a separate designer?
Many wedding planners offer design services as part of their packages, helping to create the overall aesthetic of your event. However, if you’re looking for very intricate or custom designs, some couples choose to hire a separate designer to work alongside the planner.

How do I know if a wedding planner is a good fit for my style?
It’s important to review their portfolio and ask about past weddings they’ve planned. Look for similarities between their previous work and the vision you have for your wedding. Additionally, trust your gut—having a good personal connection with your planner is crucial for a smooth planning experience.

What’s the typical process after hiring a wedding planner?
After hiring a wedding planner, you’ll usually start with an in-depth consultation to discuss your vision, budget, and priorities. From there, the planner will create a detailed timeline, start reaching out to vendors, and guide you through key decisions. Regular check-ins and updates keep the process on track leading up to your big day.

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Bringing Your Santa Barbara Wedding Vision to Life

Your wedding day should be one of the happiest moments of your life, and the right wedding planner ensures that’s exactly what happens. Whether you’re envisioning a laid-back beach wedding or an elegant vineyard celebration, Santa Barbara offers a wealth of talented planners who can help bring your dream day to life. From seasoned professionals who know every local vendor to fresh, creative minds bringing new ideas, these wedding planners are ready to guide you every step of the way.

When choosing a planner, consider their experience with your chosen venue, their design style, and how well they connect with your vision. And remember, as a Santa Barbara wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how these professionals can make all the difference in ensuring your day goes smoothly.