What Does a Wedding Planner Actually Do? A Look Behind the Magic with Michelle Durpetti Events

After 18 years in the wedding industry, I can tell you this: being a wedding planner is equal parts art, logistics, psychology, and production. Yes, we build timelines and floor plans. But we also act as translators, advocates, troubleshooters, and—perhaps most importantly—protectors of peace.

In the age of Pinterest-perfect inspiration and TikTok trends, the role of a planner can sometimes feel misunderstood. It’s not just about choosing linens and booking vendors. For those of us in full-service planning, it’s about creating an experience that is seamless, thoughtful, and—above all else—tailored to the couple we’re serving.

The Invisible Hours Behind Wedding Planning: 500 and Counting

On average, a full-service wedding planner dedicates about 500 hours to a single wedding. And that’s just one person—not including a support team. Those hours cover everything from early consultations to venue visits, design presentations, contract negotiations, budget management, and on-site production.

Why so many hours? Because every wedding we plan is entirely bespoke. We’re not plugging details into a template—we’re building something intentional from the ground up.

^{Photos: Collin Pierson Photography}

We’re also doing all of the legwork. That means researching and vetting multiple venues and vendors, then curating a dream team that aligns with your aesthetic, budget, and values. Once contracts are signed, we manage all communication across the board—between you, your families, your travel advisor (if it’s a destination), and a long list of creative and logistical partners.

And that list? It’s long: entertainment, florals, catering (including specialty food or dietary needs), beverage programs, rental companies (think linens, china, chairs, flatware), drapery, lighting, sound, AV, and pyrotechnics—yes, even fireworks. Then there’s attire and accessories, dress fittings, styling teams, hair, makeup, photo, film, and now content creators too.

^{Photos: Amanda Meg Miller, Collin Pierson, Collin Pierson}

We coordinate it all—on email, phone calls, Zooms, and in-person meetings. These hours add up fast, and most of them happen behind the scenes. This legwork is time-consuming, detail-intensive, and essential to building an experience that flows effortlessly from start to finish.

It’s Not Just a Wedding—It’s a Production

At Michelle Durpetti Events, we oversee not just the what, but the how. From production schedules and vendor load-ins to weather contingencies and table styling, we think 10 steps ahead so that you never have to look over your shoulder.

And when you work in luxury? Expectations are higher. Timelines are tighter. And nothing—nothing—can be left to chance. Whether we’re in downtown Chicago, the rolling hills of Tuscany, or along the Atlantic in Palm Beach, our goal is always the same: excellence with heart.

Your Peace of Mind Is Our Priority

We don’t just execute—we protect your peace. Our job is to anticipate the unexpected, to be your advocate when the noise gets loud, and to make space for you to enjoy your celebration without stress.

We manage the moving parts. We field the frantic texts. We guide your guests and wrangle your wedding party. We help you navigate big decisions with clarity and confidence—and we know when it’s time to step in and handle something before you ever even know it was a problem.

Trust Is the Real Luxury

Full-service planning is a commitment—on both sides. You’re trusting us with one of the most important moments of your life, and we don’t take that lightly. Our approach is rooted in relationships, experience, and a deep love for what we do.

The pretty details? We love those too. But it’s the relationships we build, the joy we protect, and the peace we provide that matter most.

So, What Do We Actually Do?

• We dream with you.
• We design for you.
• We advocate on your behalf.
• We plan your experience with precision.
• We carry the weight so that you can carry the bouquet.

And if we’ve done our job right? You won’t even see us—but you’ll feel the result in every magical moment of your wedding day.

Ready to bring your vision to life?

Let’s create something extraordinary together.

📩 Inquire now!