Event Planner

Taylor & Co Events

Chicago

About Taylor & Co Events

Taylor & Co Events, a family business since 1942, is one of the finest boutique event houses in Chicago, known for its generations of experience in event design and execution. The company's roots trace back to Derrick Ellsworth-Taylor, who was immersed in the world of weddings and events from a youn

Taylor & Co Events, a family business since 1942, is one of the finest boutique event houses in Chicago, known for its generations of experience in event design and execution. The company's roots trace back to Derrick Ellsworth-Taylor, who was immersed in the world of weddings and events from a young age. His exposure to various aspects of event planning, from floral arrangements to catering, played a pivotal role in shaping his expertise.

Derrick's passion for event planning was evident early on, with his first floral arranging competition win at just 8 years old, marking the beginning of a 13-year winning streak. This early exposure and continued success exemplify the high standards and commitment to excellence that define Taylor & Co Events. Derrick, along with his team, brings a unique blend of experience and creativity to every event, ensuring that each celebration is bespoke and memorable.

Taylor & Co specializes in fresh, innovative concepts that redefine the essence of hosting successful events in Chicago. Whether it's a wedding, a fundraiser, a product launch, or any other significant celebration, the company approaches each event with professionalism and care. Their expertise in floral design, fabric & furnishings, lighting, and fabrication allows them to create unique and unforgettable experiences for their clients.

The ethos of Taylor & Co is centered around providing bespoke wedding and event designs that are tailored to each client's individual story and vision. This personalized approach, coupled with their rich history and deep-rooted passion for event design, makes Taylor & Co a distinguished choice for those seeking to host a truly remarkable event in Chicago.

Services offered

  • Full-service event planning and design consultation
  • Custom floral arrangements and installations
  • Event lighting design and technical implementation
  • Fabric selection, drapery, and furnishings coordination
  • Fabrication and custom prop/installation creation
  • Venue styling and décor conceptualization
  • Wedding design and execution services
  • Corporate event and product launch planning
  • Fundraiser and gala design services
  • Wedding floristry and bridal bouquet design
  • Event timeline and logistics management
  • Post-event breakdown and vendor coordination

Planner's guide

TAYLOR & CO EVENTS - VENDOR INSIGHTS & SERVICES

Best For: Weddings, upscale fundraisers and galas, product launches and corporate events, milestone celebrations requiring custom design

What planners usually like:

  • Access to in-house expertise across multiple disciplines (florals, lighting, fabrication, furnishings) reduces coordination complexity with multiple vendors
  • Family business with 80+ years of operational history demonstrates stability and institutional knowledge of Chicago's event landscape
  • Personalized, bespoke approach means designs are tailored to client vision rather than templated packages
  • Leadership with early design training and competitive credentials suggests attention to detail and quality standards

Things to clarify before booking:

  • Request their current portfolio with recent event photos and client testimonials to verify style alignment with your vision
  • Ask about their vendor network and whether they work exclusively with preferred partners or provide flexibility to incorporate client-selected vendors
  • Confirm their project timeline, minimum event budget requirements, and deposit/payment schedule before initial consultation
  • Inquire about availability during your target event date and their typical lead time for design consultation through execution

Common questions

Does Taylor & Co Events handle full event planning or only design and décor?

Based on their description, Taylor & Co specializes in event design and execution with demonstrated expertise in florals, lighting, fabric/furnishings, and fabrication. Contact them directly to determine whether they provide full-service planning (venue selection, catering coordination, guest management) or primarily focus on design-side services. This clarification is essential for understanding the scope of their involvement in your event.

What types of events beyond weddings does Taylor & Co take on?

They explicitly mention experience with fundraisers, product launches, and "any other significant celebration." Their 80-year history in Chicago events suggests exposure to various event types, though you should ask for specific examples and case studies in categories relevant to your needs (corporate events, nonprofit galas, private celebrations, etc.).

How far in advance should I book Taylor & Co Events for my event?

Business hours and booking timelines are not specified on their profile. Contact them directly to understand their typical lead time, peak season availability, and whether they can accommodate shorter planning windows. High-end boutique event houses often require 6-12 months notice for premium dates.

Can they work within a specific budget or style aesthetic?

Their emphasis on "bespoke" and "tailored to each client's individual story and vision" suggests flexibility, but pricing requires direct contact. During your initial conversation, discuss your budget range, preferred design aesthetic, and any constraints so they can determine fit before investing consultation time.

What happens if I want to incorporate my own vendors or have specific requirements?

As a full-service design house with in-house capabilities, clarify whether they prefer managing all vendor relationships or if they're comfortable collaborating with florists, caterers, or other specialists you've already selected. This impacts coordination dynamics and potential cost savings.

How involved is the Taylor family in current event execution?

Derrick Ellsworth-Taylor's background is highlighted, but confirm who leads projects, whether principals are hands-on or delegated to team members, and if leadership changes affect service quality. Understanding the current operational structure helps set realistic expectations for communication and decision-making.

Contact

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