Question 1

What kinds of event planning support do you offer?

Accepted Answer

That Special Event offers four levels of planning support. Full-service planning begins with the concept and carries the event through production. Partial planning joins a plan already in progress. Day-of coordination takes ownership of execution after the client has planned the event. À la carte services provide targeted help such as timelines, vendor recommendations, rentals coordination, décor styling, or last-minute coordination.

Question 2

How do I know which planning service is right for me?

Accepted Answer

The right level depends on what is already complete and what still feels unresolved. Choose full-service when you want an expert leading from the beginning, partial planning when major decisions are made but coordination remains, day-of coordination when the plan is complete, and à la carte when you need one defined service. The first conversation is used to recommend the smallest level that can responsibly cover the work.

Question 3

Will I lose control if I hire an event planner?

Accepted Answer

No. A planner organizes decisions, vendors, timelines, and logistics; the client still owns the vision, priorities, and approvals. That Special Event’s planning services are structured around the amount of responsibility you want to keep. Partial and à la carte work are especially useful for clients who enjoy planning but want an experienced professional to finish, coordinate, or stress-test specific parts of the event.

Question 4

Can you step into an event that is already being planned?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Partial planning is built for events already in progress, and à la carte services can solve a specific gap without converting the engagement into a full package. The team reviews what is already booked, identifies what remains, and scopes the work around the actual condition of the plan. Because every event is different, the timing, deliverables, and division of responsibilities are confirmed in the proposal.

Question 5

Do you work with vendors I have already hired?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Existing vendors remain part of your event. Depending on the planning service, That Special Event can confirm details, align arrival and setup times, incorporate vendors into the master timeline, and serve as the event-day point of contact. The exact coordination scope varies by engagement, so it should be stated in the proposal rather than assumed from a general planning label.

Questions About Planning, Staffing, and Your Event

What Kind of Help Do You Need?

I need someone to plan the event.

I planned it and need professional staff.

I need both planning and staffing.

I am looking for event work.

Frequently asked questions

How much does event planning cost on the North Shore?

What’s the difference between day-of coordination and full-service planning?

How far in advance should we book a planner?

Do you provide the event staff too?

Do you require a deposit?

Do you plan events outside the North Shore?

Still Have a Question? Ask the People Who Run the Events.