9 Event Design Firms With Transparent Design Fee Structures and Rental Coordination Pricing

W-HUB Vision January 28, 2026 Event Design & Decor

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Tired of hidden fees and murky pricing in event planning? We have your back with a vetted list of nine firms that spill the beans on their costs. Expect clear planning fees, transparent rental coordination, and itemized labor charges. Think $50 per hour, not $500 surprises! Our list breaks down flat-fee, percentage, and hybrid models to assist you in picking the best fit for your budget. Curious how you could avoid unwelcome financial shocks? Start here to find out!

Who this event design firm list is for (clear design fees + rental coordination pricing)

Ever wondered why finding a wedding planning firm with transparent pricing feels like hunting for a unicorn? It’s because many firms hide their event stylist pricing. You deserve transparent stylist rates, but too often, you’re met with vague estimates and hidden fees. Imagine a list tailored for you—where stylist fee transparency is the norm. Here’s who benefits from such a list:

Budget-Savvy Couples: You want to know exactly what you’re paying for, without surprises.
DIY Enthusiasts: You’re handling some details yourself but need clarity on professional stylist costs.
Control Freaks: You crave full transparency to make certain every penny is accounted for.
Busy Professionals: You need straightforward pricing so you can focus on other important aspects of your life.

Transparency shouldn’t be mythical. The average cost of event planning in San Francisco is reported to be $99.31 per hour, which highlights the necessity for clear pricing in the industry. Catering services often come with hidden fees such as service charges and equipment rentals, making it essential for couples to understand all potential costs upfront.

What transparent design pricing should include (design fee, sourcing, rentals markup/coordination, labor)

When you’re shelling out thousands for event planning, you deserve more than just a pretty mood board. Event creation firms with transparent fees should guarantee designer fee transparency and clearly showcase their design fee structures. You need to know exactly what you’re paying for. Here’s what transparent design pricing should include:

Event planning fees should be transparent, ensuring you know exactly what you’re paying for.

Design Fee: This covers the creative services—concepts, renderings, and vendor coordination. Confirm it’s a flat rate or percentage clearly laid out.
Sourcing: Includes the cost for finding and securing those Instagram-worthy pieces.
Rentals Markup/Coordination: Understand the markup on rentals or fees for coordinating them. Sneaky auto-renewal clauses can lead to unexpected price increases, so ensure these are disclosed upfront.
Labor: Covers setup, installation, and teardown. Clear breakdowns prevent surprise charges.

Demand clarity. It’s your event and your money.

How we vetted firms: published fee structures + clear rental coordination language

Although finding event planning firms with genuinely transparent pricing feels like searching for a unicorn, we rolled up our sleeves and dug deep. We focused on event creation firms with transparent fees and clear rental coordination language. Our vetting process was tough, but hey, someone’s gotta do it! We wanted to guarantee designer fee transparency and simplify your life. With Cloudflare providing security services for websites, firms often utilize such services to protect against online threats, ensuring their pricing data remains secure and accessible.

Here’s what we looked for:

Creation Fee Structures Shown: Firms that openly show their costs, whether flat or percentage-based.
Rental Coordination Clarity: Clear language about rental procurement costs and markups.
Comprehensive Cost Breakdown: Itemized examples showing creation fees and labor costs.
Regional Comparisons: Pricing across different markets for consistency.

We wanted the dream team of transparency. No hidden fees, just clear, upfront information.

The full list (9 event design firms with transparent design fee structures and rental coordination pricing)

You’re probably tired of trying to guess what event planning services will actually cost you. Let’s cut through the mystery with a list of nine firms that don’t just talk transparency—they live it. Check out these top picks:

Easton Events: Planning fees from $5,000 to $15,000, plus rental coordination at 15-20% markup.
Toast Events: Flat planning fee of $3,500 to $8,000, with rentals at cost plus a 10% coordination fee.
A Good Affair: Planning packages between $4,000 and $12,000, with a 15% service fee on rental procurement.
Bash Please: Consultation at $250/hour or flat fee from $2,500 to $6,000, with a rental markup of 10-15%. Transparent pricing acts as a unique value proposition for these firms, differentiating them in a competitive market.

Easton Events – Design fees start at $5,000-$15,000 for full-service styling; rental coordination at 15-20% markup for vendor management; install/strike labor $50-$75/hour per crew member; includes mood boards, floor plans, and vendor sourcing: publishes design fee model + rental coordination/markup policy + install labor ranges

Let’s get straight to it: Easton Events is one of those rare gems in the event planning world that doesn’t play hide-and-seek with its pricing. If you’re tired of event creation firms keeping you in the dark, Easton’s got your back with transparent fees. Their creation fee structures are showcased right upfront, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 for full-service styling. Need rental coordination? Expect a 15-20% markup for vendor management. And let’s talk labor—install and strike crews cost $50-$75/hour per member. With mood boards, floor plans, and vendor sourcing included, you know exactly what you’re paying for. Designer fee transparency? Check. They’ve nailed it, providing clarity in an industry that often thrives on mystery. It’s important to note that hidden fees in event management software can also impact budgeting, making Easton Events’ transparency all the more valuable.

Toast Events – Flat design fee $3,500-$8,000 depending on complexity; rentals passed through at cost plus 10% coordination fee; setup crew $45-$65/hour; includes 3D renderings and unlimited revisions: publishes design fee model + rental coordination/markup policy + install labor ranges

When it comes to event planning, Toast Events isn’t playing the usual guessing game. As one of the event styling firms with transparent fees, they showcase their styling fee structures clearly, ranging from $3,500 to $8,000 depending on complexity. No hidden costs here—rentals are passed through at cost with just a 10% coordination fee. Plus, their setup crew’s hourly rates are straightforward at $45-$65. You get 3D renderings and unlimited revisions, ensuring your vision comes to life without the dreaded “extra charges” that sneak up on you. Toast Events takes designer fee transparency seriously, publishing their styling fee models, rental coordination, and install labor ranges. With them, you know exactly what you’re paying for—now that’s revitalizing! Fixed costs such as staff salaries and utility bills are essential considerations for Toast Events to ensure their pricing remains competitive and profitable.

A Good Affair – Design packages $4,000-$12,000; rental procurement 15% service fee; installation labor $500-$1,500 depending on scope; specializes in luxury florals and tablescapes: publishes design fee model + rental coordination/markup policy + install labor ranges

A Good Affair doesn’t just dabble in event planning; they generate experiences that leave an impression without leaving you in the dark. Known for their designer fee transparency, this firm spells out exactly what you’re paying for. With design packages ranging from $4,000 to $12,000, they cater to luxury tastes without surprise add-ons. Their event design firm’s transparent fees are clearly exhibited, making it easy to understand the costs upfront. They charge a 15% service fee for rental procurement, guaranteeing you get the best deals without hidden markups. Installation labor ranges from $500 to $1,500, depending on the scope. Focusing on luxury florals and tablescapes, A Good Affair guarantees your event is as stunning as it is straightforward. Clients appreciate the firm’s open book transparency approach, as it ensures that every expense, including discounts received from suppliers, is disclosed in writing, strengthening trust and collaboration.

Bash Please – Consultation $250/hour or flat fee $2,500-$6,000 for concept development; rental markup 10-15%; install team $60/hour; known for modern minimalist aesthetics: publishes design fee model + rental coordination/markup policy + install labor ranges

You know what’s rejuvenating? Finding event creation firms with transparent fees like Bash Please. Finally, a company where designer fee transparency isn’t just a myth. They put it all out there with design fee structures exhibited clearly. Choose between a $250/hour consultation or a flat fee ranging from $2,500 to $6,000 for concept progression. That’s right—no guessing games. And their rental markup? A straightforward 10-15%. Not to mention, their install team works at $60/hour. Known for their modern minimalist aesthetics, Bash Please doesn’t just promise clarity—they provide it. Transparent fee structures build trust with event attendees through clear cost understanding. When you’re planning your event, wouldn’t you prefer to work with someone who’s upfront? It’s invigorating to see honesty in an industry that often shrouds costs in mystery.

Reverie Events – Full design service $6,000-$20,000; rental coordination included; labor billed at $55/hour for setup/teardown; provides detailed production timelines and vendor management: publishes design fee model + rental coordination/markup policy + install labor ranges

Tired of event planning firms keeping you in the dark about what things actually cost? Reverie Events breaks the mold with event planning firms transparent fees. Their design fee structures are clearly showcased, ranging from $6,000 to $20,000 for full design services. No surprises here—rental coordination is included, and labor for setup and teardown is billed at a straightforward $55 per hour. Reverie Events guarantees designer fee transparency by publishing their design fee model, rental coordination/markup policy, and install labor ranges. They also supply detailed production timelines and vendor management, so you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for. Reverie Events recognizes niche expertise by focusing on creating memorable wedding experiences that stand out. Finally, a firm that values transparency as much as you do. Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to peace of mind.

Reverie Events set a high bar for transparency, but Sterling Social isn’t far behind, making sure you know exactly where your money’s going. With creative retainers between $4,500 and $10,000, Sterling Social stands out among event creative firms with transparent fees. They showcase their creative fee structures clearly, ensuring you’re never in the dark. Rentals are handled at wholesale prices plus a modest 12% handling fee—no surprise markups here. Their crew rates of $50 to $70 per hour are straightforward, and they include valuable site visits and lighting creative consultations. This creative fee transparency means you can plan your budget with confidence, focusing on creating the perfect event without hidden costs sneaking up on you. In cities like New York City, event planners often charge between $150–$250 per hour, highlighting the competitive and transparent pricing of Sterling Social in comparison.

Jubilee Events – Package design $3,000-$7,500; rental sourcing 15% fee; installation $400-$1,200 based on venue complexity; specializes in garden and outdoor events: publishes design fee model + rental coordination/markup policy + install labor ranges

While many event planning firms prefer to keep their pricing as mysterious as a magician’s tricks, Jubilee Events lays it all out on the table, no smoke and mirrors here. Their wedding creator rates exhibited range from $3,000 to $7,500, showcasing the type of transparency that event planning firms with clear fees should aspire to. You’ll find their arrangement fee structures presented clearly, detailing every element from concepts to vendor coordination. They even specialize in garden and outdoor events, adding a touch of nature to your big day. Rental sourcing? Just a 15% fee. Installation costs? $400 to $1,200, depending on venue complexity. Jubilee’s straightforward approach means no surprises, just exactly what you’ve agreed to. Isn’t that invigorating? In addition, their pricing model reflects market demand influences, allowing them to adjust rates during high and low seasons.

Alison Events – Hourly design rate $150-$250 or packages from $5,000; rental pass-through plus 10% admin; labor crews $45-$55/hour; provides CAD floor plans: publishes design fee model + rental coordination/markup policy + install labor ranges

Alison Events doesn’t keep you guessing—unlike some firms that treat their pricing like a state secret. With designer fee transparency, they lay it all out: choose between an hourly creation rate of $150-$250 or packages starting at $5,000. Want more details? Their creation fee structures are exhibited clear as day. When it comes to rentals, they pass costs through with a modest 10% admin fee. Labor? You’re looking at $45-$55 per hour for crews. They even toss in CAD floor plans, giving you a visual edge. This approach renders Alison Events one of the rare event creation firms with transparent fees. You know what you’re paying for, and that’s a rarity worth noting. Understanding competitor pricing provides a valuable benchmark, allowing firms like Alison Events to set prices that are both competitive and transparent.

Bluebird Productions – Design fees 8-12% of overall decor budget; rental markup 15%; setup/strike labor $600-$2,000 flat rate; includes on-site design director: publishes design fee model + rental coordination/markup policy + install labor ranges

If you’ve ever felt like event pricing is as clear as mud, then you’re in for a treat with Bluebird Productions. They’re one of the event creation firms with transparent fees that simplify planning less of a guessing game. With their creation fee structures showcased, you’ll know you’ll be charged 8-12% of your overall decor budget. No surprises there! They tack on a 15% rental markup, and their setup/strike labor is a flat $600-$2,000—simple and predictable. Plus, having an on-site design director means you’re in good hands. Designer fee transparency is rare, but Bluebird Productions lays it all out. Their published policies provide you peace of mind, letting you focus on the fun, not the finances. Great event managers create experiences that attract and engage attendees, ensuring your event is a memorable success.

Comparison table: flat-fee vs percentage vs hybrid models (what you get)

Steering through the world of event planning pricing models can feel like wandering through a maze with no exit signs. You want event creation firms with transparent fees, but often get lost in vague pricing structures. It’s essential to understand creation fee structures illustrated by these firms. Many planners may lack knowledge on how to set appropriate rates, which can lead to varying levels of service and pricing transparency. Here’s a simple table to assist you in comparing flat-fee, percentage, and hybrid models:

Model	What You Pay	What You Get
Flat-Fee	Fixed price (e.g., $5,000)	Designer fee transparency, clear budget
Percentage	% of total budget (e.g., 10%)	Scaled services based on spend
Hybrid	Base fee + %	Flexible options, tailored services

Navigating these options guarantees you’re not blindsided by unexpected costs. Choose wisely!

Hidden costs (install/strike labor, trucking, venue access overtime, storage)

While traversing the world of event planning, the hidden costs can feel like a sucker punch to your budget. Event planning firms with transparent fees might promise clear pricing, but beware of lurking extras. Planning fee structures showcased often exclude these surprise costs:

Beware of hidden costs in event planning that can unexpectedly impact your budget.

Install/Strike Labor: Rates have soared, with averages hitting $140/hour and peaking at $235.05 in NYC. Overtime? Even pricier.
Trucking & Material Handling: Costs vary wildly, with a national average of $1.88 per pound. Expect higher rates in the Northeast.
Venue Access Overtime: Extended events mean extra fees for venue staff, housekeeping, and more.
Storage: Freight and storage can inflate your budget unexpectedly. Opportunity costs can arise when turning down business due to a lack of resources, highlighting the importance of evaluating alternatives for business growth.

Understanding these planning service costs aids in avoiding unplanned expenses. Be prepared, be informed!

Questions to ask before signing (scope, revisions, minimums, who owns rentals)

Why is it that signing a contract with an event planning firm often feels like entering a labyrinth? Event planning firms with transparent fees can simplify this maze, but you need to ask the right questions to avoid surprises. With planning fee structures shown, make sure you understand:

Scope and Revisions: What’s included in the initial planning, and how many revisions are allowed without extra charges? Designer fee transparency matters here.
Minimums: Are there minimum booking requirements or service levels that affect pricing?
Rental Ownership: Who owns the rentals, and who’s responsible if something breaks or goes missing?
Hidden Costs: Are there hidden charges like overtime or service fees that might inflate your budget?

If you encounter access issues to a site when researching event firms, security measures like Cloudflare might be the reason. Get clear answers to these questions before signing anything.

Educational only: confirm fee model and scope in your contract/proposal

If you’ve ever felt like steering through an event planning contract is akin to deciphering an ancient text, you’re not alone. To avoid surprises, confirm your fee model and scope in the contract. Here’s what to check:

Fee Model: Fixed fees are straightforward—no surprises unless you change the scope. Percentage-based fees? Ensure that percentage (usually 10-20%) is clear. It’s important to understand that percentage-based fees can lead to increased costs as budgets grow.
Scope Definition: Start with a defined scope. List services included—vendor selection, day-of coordination, or logistics management.
Expenses: Know if fees include extras like printing or equipment. Are these expenses separate?
Hourly Rates: Got a hybrid model? Verify thresholds for flat fees and hourly rates. Avoid unexpected costs by documenting everything.

Clear contracts lead to smooth events. Don’t skip this step!