“They know all the best vendors in Chicago and are prompt communicators, sympathetic and charming, and super flexible. ... In fact, we felt like both Amy and Carolyn were more like friends than folks we’d hired by the end of things. I couldn’t recommend wedding planners in general enough, for sanity’s sake, but Carolyn and Amy in particular are incredible. You won’t regret hiring them.””
— Kate + Gabby
 

We are proud to announce that AELO has been selected as a 2025 winner in The Knot Best of Weddings, an award representing the highest-rated wedding professionals as reviewed by real couples on The Knot.”

 

AELO Statement on Diversity and Inclusion

For 16 years, AELO has been part of hundreds of incredible events celebrating all cultures, creeds, and identities. Our team takes pride in respecting everyone we come across.

We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion–these are not just words to us. We have actively worked to reach out to, and celebrate, marginalized groups. We welcome all people as clients and industry partners. Your identity will be respected and celebrated. We are committed to being a safe vendor for all who want to plan a special event.

FAQ

 

  • While each package has a base price, our contract is tailored to your specific event. Once we land on a contract, it will never change, unless you decide to add services (i.e. adding vendor recommendations to a Day of Coordination contract). Shoot us an inquiry for package details!

  • If you’re deciding between two, we’re always happy to give our opinion! We have lots of those. But if you want tailored, detailed vendor recommendations based on your budget and desired outcome, our A La Carte package is well worth the investment.

  • Absolutely not! Our team puts in a lot of hours preparing for your event to ensure you have a perfect day. We are preparing your timeline and all supporting documents months in advance, communicating with your vendors, leading your venue walk through and other meetings, keeping you on track, and tying together all the loose ends. We care deeply about giving you the best day ever, and that means being prepared for everything!

  • Any time between 2 years and 2 months before your event! We’ve always said we can plan a wedding in a week if all your vendors are available and we’d happily accept that challenge.

  • We love Venue Coordinators! They are invaluable to us. Ultimately, their job is the space. They are overseeing the use of the venue, the safety of the guests, etc. Our job is you. An AELO Coordinator will be focused on the plan you’ve made together and the moments that matter to you, and we coordinate the whole day, not just when you get to the venue.

  • Absolutely not, and we never will. Our Recommended Vendor list is built from many years of working with great people, and wanting to recommend them to our clients. That’s all there is to it!