Event Planner
Brilliant Event Planning
New York
At Brilliant Event Planning, we believe in turning fleeting moments into lasting memories. For over a…
About Rafanelli Events
Welcome to Rafanelli Events, where we turn the art of event planning into extraordinary experiences. Since our inception in 1996 by the visionary Bryan Rafanelli, we have carved a niche in the world of event planning and design, synonymous with elegance, innovation, and an unparalleled attention to
Welcome to Rafanelli Events, where we turn the art of event planning into extraordinary experiences. Since our inception in 1996 by the visionary Bryan Rafanelli, we have carved a niche in the world of event planning and design, synonymous with elegance, innovation, and an unparalleled attention to detail. Operating from our hubs in New York City, Palm Beach, and Boston, we pride ourselves on our global reach and expertise in crafting unforgettable events across the world.
At Rafanelli Events, we specialize in a spectrum of gatherings, from intimate destination events and private celebrations to grand corporate functions and high-profile non-profit fundraisers. No event is too small or too large for us, with our experience spanning events for as few as 15 to as many as 15,000 attendees. Our team of fifty dedicated design and production professionals embrace each event as a unique canvas, painting celebrations that are not just events, but life-long memories.
What truly sets us apart is our commitment to breathing life into the vision of our clients. We believe that each event is a personal story waiting to be told, and we dedicate ourselves to narrating these stories through meticulous planning, innovative design, and personalized touches that speak volumes. Our events are not just gatherings; they are bespoke experiences that reflect the essence and individuality of our clients.
Our clientele is as diverse and distinguished as our events. From Fortune 500 families and public figures to successful entrepreneurs, along with some of the most esteemed institutions and brands in the world, our portfolio is a testament to our versatility and excellence in event planning.
At Rafanelli Events, we are not just planners; we are creators of moments, architects of experiences, and weavers of dreams. Our passion for crafting memorable moments is matched only by our legacy of excellence. As we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in event planning, we remain committed to setting new standards for extraordinary celebrations around the globe.
Join us on a journey where your vision becomes our blueprint, and every detail is an opportunity to exceed expectations. Whether it’s a whimsical wedding, a sophisticated corporate event, or a gala of grandeur, we promise to deliver not just an event, but an experience that resonates, captivates, and leaves a lasting imprint on all who partake.
At Rafanelli Events, every celebration is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted, and elegantly executed. We invite you to be a part of this legacy, where your special moments become part of our story of excellence and innovation in the world of event planning. Let Rafanelli Events be the architect of your next unforgettable event.
Services offered
- Full-service event planning and design (concept through execution)
- Destination event management and logistics coordination across domestic and international locations
- Luxury wedding and private celebration planning
- Corporate event production for Fortune 500 companies and executive functions
- Non-profit gala planning and fundraising event management
- Large-scale multi-day event coordination (50-15,000+ attendees)
- Creative design and themed décor installation
- Vendor sourcing, management, and contract negotiation
- On-site event production and day-of coordination
- Specialty event design for intimate gatherings and small celebrations
- Budget management and financial planning for events
- Post-event analysis and client consultation services
Planner's guide
Best For: High-end weddings and destination celebrations, Fortune 500 corporate functions and executive events, Non-profit galas and major fundraising events, Large-scale multi-day events (50-15,000+ guests)
What planners usually like:
- Access to an established team of 50+ dedicated design and production professionals who handle both creative vision and on-site execution
- Proven experience across multiple major markets (NYC, Palm Beach, Boston) with demonstrated capability to execute events globally
- Flexibility in event scale—the ability to manage intimate 15-person gatherings through massive 15,000-person productions without compromising quality
- Portfolio credibility backed by 25+ years of experience (since 1996) working with distinguished clientele, which can lend prestige to high-profile events
Things to clarify before booking:
- Request a detailed breakdown of what "contact for pricing" entails—understand their minimum project fees, retainer structures, and payment schedules upfront
- Confirm the availability and specific roles of senior designers/planners versus junior staff, as larger firms often assign account managers rather than principals to events
- Clarify their vendor network and whether they have exclusive partnerships in your event location, which affects pricing flexibility and vendor selection options
- Discuss their timeline for initial consultations and design proposal development, as well as revision policies and change order procedures
Common questions
How does Rafanelli Events handle events in locations where they don't have a physical office?
While their primary hubs are NYC, Palm Beach, and Boston, their description explicitly mentions global reach and expertise in executing events worldwide. Before booking, request case studies or references from events in your specific location to understand their local vendor relationships, logistics coordination, and whether they deploy team members to the destination or work through local partnerships.
What is included in the initial consultation, and how many design concepts do they typically present?
The vendor information doesn't specify their consultation process or proposal structure. You'll need to ask directly about whether consultations are complimentary, how many design directions they present, revision rounds included in their base fee, and whether initial concepts are presented digitally or in-person.
Can Rafanelli Events work within a fixed budget, or do they typically work with open-ended budgets?
Given their positioning as a luxury firm working with Fortune 500 families and high-profile clientele, they likely work best with higher budgets, but this isn't explicitly stated. Clarify whether they can create tiered proposals at different budget levels, if there's a realistic minimum investment for their services, and how they approach cost management during planning phases.
How much of the planning process can be handled remotely versus requiring in-person meetings?
Their multi-city presence suggests some remote capability, but the extent of virtual planning services versus required site visits and in-person meetings isn't specified. Ask about their typical meeting cadence, whether they use virtual design tools, and how many site visits are included in their standard service package.
What happens if my event requires specialized expertise (like international customs, specific cultural elements, or technical production)?
Their 50-person team likely includes specialists, but you should confirm they have in-house expertise for your specific needs rather than relying on external contractors. Ask about their staff's background in your event type and whether they have cultural consultants, technical directors, or other specialists you may require.
How is the relationship structured—will I work with one primary contact throughout planning, or will multiple team members be involved?
Large firms often have account managers, designers, and logistics coordinators all involved. Clarify who your single point of contact is, how decisions are communicated, and whether the person you meet with during proposals will remain involved through execution.
Contact
- New York, USA
Get directions
Message Rafanelli Events
Share a few details and they will get back to you.
Is this your business?
Claim this listing to update the details, add photos and respond to inquiries.
FOR VENUES, VENDORS AND PLANNERS
Run an event business?
List it free in every country, or claim your existing listing in a couple of minutes.