Emily Thompson Flowers

If you’re after cocktails, moody lighting, and DJs slinging jazz and Aretha Franklin on vinyl, you’ll find all of the above at Another Country.

They use incredibly fresh fish in particularly inventive ways here, which has earned them a well-deserved Michelin star. We like to dine at the bar and give in to affable chef Masato Shimizu's omakase, which is full of some pretty unusual and surprising flavor combinations—not always the easiest thing to achieve when it comes to sushi.

Helmed by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, this airy, all-white space is a temple to inventive, seasonal, and local cooking, sourced from nearby farms and cooperatives. It doesn't come as much of a shock that the fare is GMO-free and also made without pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, insecticides, antibiotics, or hormones. It's not surprising because you can taste the well-sourced provenance on the plate, whether in the form of house-made ricotta ravioli or fried organic chicken in a hot sauce butter.

Helmed by Chef Andy Nusser, expect nothing less than delicious tapas—excellent meats, manchego cheese, boquerones—all served up as authentically as if you were in Madrid. If you come just for drinks, you won't be disappointed by the list, and you can pretty much make a meal out of a few of their authentic offerings. (If you're still hungry, head next door to Casa Mono.)

Andy Nusser's tiny tapas spot opened years ago, but the vibe and food is still just as great—particularly on those days when you're really missing Spain. The menu leans pretty heavily on proteins, but the more veggie-driven dishes hold their own, too. Meanwhile, Mono's sister property next door, Bar Jamón, is great for a post-dinner nightcap. Both spaces can accommodate full buyouts for private parties.

So NYC has never really gotten snaps for its Mexican food, but Cosme is said to break the trend. It's probably because it's from chef Enrique Olvera, of Mexico City Pujol fame—trust us when we say he’s legit. The private room is just as sleek and modern as the rest of the restaurant, and while it'll cost you, a prix-fixe private meal here is an incredibly special experience.

A meal here is a total, resolutely vegetarian, treat. This Michelin-starred, Art Deco-esque restaurant is also an investment, both in time and money. But it’s absolutely worth it, as the kitchen, under the direction of chef Daniel Humm, sends forth molecular gastronomy-inflected dishes that are pristine and precise. On the tasting menu, you’ll choose the main ingredient—the rest is up to the kitchen, meaning that each dish is a wonderful surprise.

Gallow Green is actually the rooftop of the McKittrick Hotel. When you first walk in, you might expect a woodland nymph to pop out from behind one of the lush arches. The cozy garden vibe here is neither pretentious nor touristy, and the views of the city are some of the best. Their unusual cocktails keep with the theme, with names like Summer Coven and The Garden Shed.

For over 30 years, this venerable Danny Meyer restaurant has been continually packed, thanks to the delicious, seasonal, and local American cuisine, a movement that’s currently stewarded by chef Michael Anthony, of Blue Hill fame. The woodsy dining room, complete with Robert Kushner’s vegetable mural, is so comforting. Their private room is a great classic spot for a private event.

Tex-Mex isn’t a type of cuisine you’d normally associate with New York City, but after a meal at this cheerful spot in Gramercy (a few blocks north of Union Square), you might rethink that idea. Grab some friends and order the traditional queso and a round of prickly pear margaritas before diving into your entree. The mole is reliably tasty, as are the grilled shrimp tacos. The central location makes it a great group dinner spot, but there’s also a second location on the Upper East Side.

This hangout for Australians (for real) offers an insanely delicious burger, along with meal-worthy salads, making it a great pit-stop for a quick bite. Due to its popularity, the original location in Nolita has doubled in size (expanding into next door’s space) since opening in 2003. This is their second location.

If you've visited Maman cafés, you're familiar with founders Benjamin Sormonte and Elisa Marshall's talent for creating utterly chic, French-inspired spaces you want to live in. Their Maman Nomad outpost checks all these boxes. The first uptown presence for the duo, the gorgeous café and restaurant serve up decadent lunch and brunch options, including healthy homemade soups and quiches, plus their famous nutty chocolate chip cookies. Go for a relaxed brunch or afternoon coffee–or, in a pinch, grab something to go.

Come to Upland (named for the chef's hometown) for a taste of California in the heart of NYC. Designed by Roman & Williams, the space is understandably warm and inviting—the light-filled dining room’s checkered tablecloths and wooden accents compliment the menu’s rustic, ingredient-driven offerings: sausage-and-kale pizza, cioppino, and a limoncello olive oil cake.

Amy’s started out in Hell’s Kitchen back in 1992 and in the intervening years, her business has gone gangbusters, supplying many of the city’s gourmet shops with their wonderful bread and pastries. Head to any of the stores—our favorite is still the largely unchanged original—to pick up a French baguette, olive twist, or one of their delicious pastries to go.

Located in the old Nabisco building just north of the Meatpacking District, you’ll find a warren-like maze of restaurants and specialty shops. There are many hits, but we like Los Tacos No.1 for authentic Mexican and, if cooking a special meal at home is an option, we’d pick up our bread at Amy’s, fresh groceries at the Manhattan Fruit Market, and crustaceans at Lobster Place (they also do great pre-made rolls). You'll also find Bowery Kitchen Supply and Posman Books, where the offerings are more suitcase-appropriate.

Essentially Costco-sized, this Italian gourmet grocery store stocks aisle after aisle of the best artisanal ingredients, including truly fantastic fresh pasta. Throughout the space (which also includes cookware), you’ll find plenty of places to sit down and eat. While there are several restaurants upstairs, we find the best way to experience Eataly it is to grab a seat at one of the many bar-size specialty eateries scattered across the main shop floor.

Beyond being one of the better grocery stores around, Fairway is the perfect New York cross section: You'll see young families, ladies in fur coats, and students looking for good food at good prices here.

Just Salad was an early adopter of the fast casual dining option, and they now have locations in practically every New York neighborhood. While they have some great existing menu options (including a few rotating seasonal choices), the main move here is to create your own salad and have it chopped. The ingredients are always really fresh, as they source many from within 350 miles of the restaurant at New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Vermont farms, prioritizing organic and non-GMO foods.

As serious home cooks attest, Kalustyan’s may just be the best international food stockist in the world. Operating out of the same Lexington Avenue location since 1944, they stock every spice, grain, cracker, and chutney in the world from India to Italy, along with just the right implements, whether it be a tortilla press or a tagine. The sheer size of the honey aisle alone is enough to drop jaws. It’s a foodie mecca, not just for the seemingly infinite varieties of foods and international kitchen tools, but for the outstanding sandwiches and Mediterranean food served at their cafe upstairs.

There’s no lack of gelato shops in NYC, though this one is probably the best of the bunch. Handmade the Italian way, using strictly natural, seasonal ingredients, the gelato here is just sweet and creamy enough that it doesn’t feel overly heavy.

Methodology, a food delivery plan that ships nationwide, is made for busy professionals (or generally fast-paced New Yorkers) looking for nourishing meals at minimal effort. Their plans range from vegan to keto, and they taste amazing. The menu, which changes weekly, is full of cleaned-up comfort foods like Spanish chickpea paella and vegan eggplant caponata made with basil pesto, broccolini, and pistachio parmesan. Their desserts are amazing, too: think matcha chocolate collagen balls and paleo dark chocolate brownies with avocado frosting. You can mix and match your proteins and sides, and arrange for portions to be big enough for two servings. Meals arrive in glass jars, which travel well, and they'll pick up for easy reuse. Delivery is available nationwide (except Alaska and Hawaii).

Danny Meyer does a lot right at his burger chain, evidenced be the long lines at all the outposts. While we’ll always prefer the original kiosk in Madison Square Park, there’s a convenient location across from the Natural History Museum on the Upper West Side, as well as one near all the Pier 25 action in Battery Park City. We’re big fans because the meat in Meyer’s burgers and dogs is completely antibiotic- and hormone-free, as is the dairy in the shakes and custards. It’s also reliably delicious.

We’re big fans of this sustainability-first spot, which has been growing rapidly. The focus is on local farmers, proper sourcing, and environmental respect, which is also reflected in the hands-down delicious food. Besides the build-your-own salad bar, the bowl-centric dishes range from Mexican-inspired salads to basic cobbs. Come lunchtime, the lines extend around the block.

If you're renovating, this is the place to go for absolutely any style of tile. Their library is vast and they carry a variety of materials including stone, wood, leather, and porcelain.

This is where you should go to to outfit a classy man cave. It's also a good place to find one-of-a-kind antiques in general. You'll find big industrial pieces alongside Hermes travel bags, Louis Vuitton trunks, and designer furniture by people like Isamu Noguchi and Jean Prouvé. And, fittingly, come here if you’re looking to outfit a bar.

Family-owned for 20-odd years, Posman Books has managed to stay both independent and right in the mainstream: Instead of gravitating to quiet neighborhood corners, they found a space in one of the city’s most bustling centers—Chelsea Market. It’s wise, because they’re thriving, and offering a great array of books, toys, games, and cards in the process.

The jewel of Larry Gagosian's gallery empire is a gargantuan, museum-standard center in Chelsea: The space alone is worth a visit for its sheer monumentality. And fittingly, the stable of artists displayed there consists of the art world's heavyweights from Ed Ruscha, to Taryn Simon and Jeff Koons. There are multiple outposts in the city (including a location on 21st street) along with galleries around the world.

The High Line is a public park built on a former elevated freight rail line along Manhattan's west side, running from the Meatpacking District through Chelsea to Hudson Yards. It's a linear path with planted gardens, seating areas, and framed views of the city and the Hudson River. What makes it special is the design: The original rail tracks are woven into the landscaping, and the plantings shift with the seasons. Rather than escaping the city, you move through it from a different vantage point, catching glimpses of streets and buildings you'd never notice from the ground. We recommend it for a walk with a friend when you want to get your steps in, but be warned—it's almost always crowded.

Founded in 1985 by co-owners Lawrence R. Luhring and Roland J. Augustine, this Chelsea gallery focuses on representing an international group of contemporary painters, sculptors, photographers, and multimedia artists. The roster is a roll-call for some of the world's most celebrated artists from Larry Clark to Joel Sternfeld, Pipilotti Rist, Janine Antoni, and more. There's also a location in Tribeca.

With a stable of some of our favorite contemporary artists and photographers—Luigi Ghiri, Nan Goldin and Terry Winters—gallerist Matthew Marks has made a name for himself for his offbeat, yet totally on-point exhibitions. There are three outposts in Chelsea.

While the name might invoke childhood memories of fear and loathing for the subject, this super interactive museum might inspire an affection for math. It revolves around hands-on rides and activities that employ mathematical concepts to function—a tricycle with square wheels that rolls across a track, a chair that drifts across a pool of acorn shapes—meaning that a few hours spent here will be both fun and insightful.

Smack in the middle of Koreatown, this futuristic spa revolves around four grottoes, which light up an otherwise pitch black room. You'll find a jade, clay, and amethyst sauna, each infused with far infrared, along with a series of wet rooms for really, really, really good Korean scrubs. As a bonus, it's open from 10am to 2am.

Situated on a pier along the Hudson River, this gigantic sporting complex operates out of the "if you build it, they will come" mindset. And it’s true: Here, you’ll find year-round ice skating, a rock climbing wall, gymnastics, soccer, a driving range, and more, all situated under one sprawling roof.

Flatiron Pilates, founded by Amy Nelms, is one of the best classical Pilates experiences in NYC for its highly technical, deeply personalized approach. Nelms offers private sessions only, held in her minimalist, light-filled Flatiron studio and typically arranged via Instagram DM or via email at amy@flatironpilates.com. With over 25 years of experience, she reads the body quickly—identifying imbalances, posture issues, and movement patterns within minutes—and tailors each session to how your body moves. She brings a true teaching mindset to the work, explaining what's happening and why, often giving "homework" so it continues beyond the session. It's a place to refine rather than just sweat, focusing on corrective movements—but you still leave pleasantly sore, without ever feeling you pushed too hard.

This is one of the most trusted names in spray tanning in New York, and for good reason. Under the watchful eye of the owner, Tamar, you'll never step out with a weird, orange undertone or that terrible fake tan smell. The tiny salon is in a random building on Broadway, but no matter: You'll be in and out in under 15 minutes (and they're open until 10pm). They also do house-calls.

An appointment at this no-frills day spa (there are seven throughout the city) is wonderfully personalized: You choose the duration of your treatment and set your goals with your skin therapist. Every treatment comes with a deep cleanse, exfoliation, custom mask, and hydration, then ends with sunscreen protection. Upgrades include peels, microdermabrasion, and light therapy, and if you need monthly treatments, there is a membership program.

Othership Flatiron is one of the most high-energy, immersive contrast therapy experiences in NYC, with guided sauna and cold plunge sessions set to music and breathwork. Classes are less quiet and meditative than dynamic and engaging—designed to leave you feeling rejuvenated and energized. The shared momentum of moving through it with a group is hard to replicate on your own.

Remedy Place is a standout in NYC for recovery—a social wellness club that blends ancient practices with modern technology to support your overall wellbeing. At the flagship in Flatiron and second outpost in Soho,  interiors reflect this approach—warm tones, cozy chairs, and sofas create a space that's minimal yet purposeful, never stark or cold. The wellness offerings are extensive, spanning IV therapy, hyperbaric oxygen, breathwork, contrast therapy, and more.

SOUK Yoga Studio is a unique space that brings together movement, sound, and community. Classes are rooted in established yoga traditions like Jivamukti, Iyengar, and Ashtanga, alongside breathwork and sound meditation—and there’s a strong emphasis on how everything connects, from breath to movement to mental stillness. Each session is taught by experienced instructors, and suitable for all levels.

It’s not just the glossy nails you walk out with that makes us love this airy nail studio. There’s also the cute slippers they gift you, the red-light treatment that leaves your hands soft as silk...not to mention the service where the salon invites you to write yourself a letter as you wait for your nails to dry. (Write something nice—they mail it to you a few weeks later.) All five locations feel spalike in their serenity, and the Soho location’s lush balcony is perfect for luxuriating as you air-dry your nails.

At the tippy top of the famous Hotel Chelsea, above the fray of downtown Manhattan, sits this light-filled spa-oasis. Everything your eye touches is exquisite—from the rustic brick hearth in the sitting area where you sip cucumber water and the rooftop terrace garden to the festooned-with-flowers sheets on the treatment beds and the heated Japanese toilets in the changing rooms. It’s got everything you want—a traditional Swedish sauna, soaking tubs, rain showers, and epic treatments that leave you feeling practically reborn.

This stunning wellness studio is 13,000 square feet of soothing neutrals and light toned woods. We love the airy wellness cafe, and the seemingly unlimited menu treatments. The facials are some of the best in the city; their signature one, a totally custom, 90-minute experience, incorporates the LYMA laser and a series of Biologique Recherche products to cleanse, soothe, and hydrate. Plus, you bring home a personalized routine recommended by one of their master estheticians.

Cloud Catering's Michelin-trained chefs spend the same amount of time and effort on presentation—the dishes seriously look like edible works of art—as they do on crafting insanely delicious recipes, which is precisely why we love them (and had them do the food for both our Diane von Furstenberg collaboration dinner and our Net-a-Porter celebration).

Harvest & Revel is that dreamy catering company that, in addition to food, handles all the event details—beverages, bar packages, staff, flowers, and photographers—that make party planning sort of maddening. Now back to the food. Founder Sara Elise and her staff don’t abide by the set menus typical in the catering space. Instead, you collaborate with them to design a menu that embraces the season and suits the particulars of the event you’re hosting. Every bite prepared by the Harvest & Revel team is sustainable, locally grown (when possible), health-forward, and exquisitely presented.

In addition to being a great fried chicken joint, with easy-going locations in Williamsburg and the Lower East Side, Pies ‘n’ Thighs caters parties and weddings (to every guest’s delight). Their Southern food is supremely authentic, and although the fried chicken is, again, particularly standout, their pies are just as good.

Oliver Cheng Catering and Events mimics the white table-clothed, fine-dining experience in catered form. This boutique company represents the gold standard in catering industry, concepting a totally bespoke New American menu, infused with Asian and European flavors (the level of artistry on each plate is breathtaking) for every job. Conveniently, Oliver Cheng also offers a comprehensive cocktail list with drinks expertly mixed on-site.

Even those who are not big on dessert can appreciate the paper-thin layered crêpe cakes that made Lady M. Confections so famous—not too sweet, and with a delicate consistency that literally melts in your mouth. The interiors of all nine international locations are kept strictly stark-white, with the cakes displayed like precious jewels on tiny podiums: there’s the Checkers cake, a chocolate gâteau, tarts, and so much more. While the original outpost is on the UES, the two Midtown boutiques are a blessing when a 3pm sugar craving kicks in.

This is fancy, white-glove catering at its best. Sonnier & Castle is famous for hiring experienced chefs from the finest NYC restaurants, which in turn translates to sophisticated finger foods, plated dinners, and buffets. What's great is that they can take care of all the details—waiter uniforms and wine pairings included.

The reason why Charlotte Neuville is dubbed the Fashion Chef is because she spent close to three decades in the biz (she was pretty high up at Gap Inc.) before leaving it all behind to bake couture cakes full-time. But it seems the industry refuses to let her go; she's been asked to design cakes for everyone from Alber Elbaz to Barneys.

You've probably seen People's Pops all over the city (they regularly set up shop at the High Line and Brooklyn Flea), and if you haven't tried their real-fruit pops or shave ice, you really should. For special events, they do custom flavors and fancy champagne-popsicle cocktails.

Brooklyn-based Roberta’s has been warmly flourishing for years. They cater events and weddings throughout the five boroughs (and will travel beyond the city). Their catering menu is fairly similar to their Bushwick restaurant menu: wonderful pizzas, seasonal veggies, meat and cheese plate apps—with raw bar additions. You can also host an event in their attached garden space (holds up to 180 for standing events and 120 for seated weddings).

Seriously not your average catering crew, Pinch brings a playful, almost theatrical vibe to party food presentation. It’s run by chef Bob Spiegel and designer TJ Girard who collaborate in equal parts: With Pinch, it’s as much about the experience as it is the taste. Picture chef’s tables with quick prep demos, food stations that literally move, clever dishes that rest atop wine glasses, custom-designed utensils, floating pizza slices, and so, so much more.

Parties don’t always lend themselves to healthy meals. The idea behind this food service is that simple, good food can be special-event-worthy. Woldy’s will work with you to come up with a menu (whether it’s breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner) that is seasonal and local, without skimping on taste. Sample dishes include: chia seed breakfast bowls decorated with shaved coconut and edible flowers; roasted Brussels sprouts with white beans and almonds, served with blood orange vinaigrette; Vietnamese-inspired meatballs with sriracha aioli; and (flourless) chocolate cake.

Brooklyn-based Sogoal Zolghadri turned her love of watercolor and baking into a full-time gig a couple of years ago quietly launching Sogi's Honey Bakeshop on social media and starting a Kickstarter to help her get the business off the ground. (Check out her hilarious Instagram here.) Her exacting hand takes food coloring and a paintbrush and applies it much like watercolor onto delicately glazed sugar cookies. The result? Cheeky phrases, like "Sorry for things I said when Mercury was in retrograde," edible emojis, and ones painted to look like avocado toast that are almost too pretty too eat.

Offering some of the most superlative catering in New York City since 1985, Peter Callahan is a master at executing the perfect event. With a full team of event producers, artists, and most importantly, chefs, he customizes each menu and drinks offering to the client's specifications irrespective of whether the event is a gala dinner, an intimate baby shower, or rustic wedding (the team are adept at creating kitchens in the field to cater to every type of location).

While her portfolio is dedicated predominantly to weddings, Jennifer Sosa's detail-centric style would lend itself nicely to any special occasion. She's also a born-and-bred New Yorker, so her knowledge of the city comes in handy when it comes to location-scouting.

Hannah Thomson isn't so much an event photographer as a portrait master. Her expertise is really in capturing people—candid, posed, and everything in between.

With a background in editorial, photojournalism, and fashion photography, Jennifer MacFarlane adds a cool, unrehearsed edge to traditional wedding photography. Based in Bushwick, MacFarlane brings an exuberance that’s all her own to the day. Weddings carry a heavy logistical load from the outset, but MacFarlane is a seasoned pro at planning out the scheduled shots and ensuring that none of the intimate moments are missed.

California native Amber Gress grew up on an organic vegetable farm before she fell in love with the dark room. She’s now Brooklyn-based (and shoots digital), but travels. Her style is fresh and sophisticated; most of her photos—from family portraits to engagement series and bride close-ups day-of—have a real editorial feel. Her associate photographer, Shannon, is also great. And they are expanding into (non-cheesy) videography, too.

Gabrielle Plucknette started out in the photo departments of The New York Times Magazine and New York Magazine before heading off on her own as a freelance photographer. In addition to weddings, Plucknette also does brilliant lifestyle shots that run the gamut from local parades to food photography and coastal portraits. Plucknette is very good with lighting, for one, which makes her photos really stand out.

Edward Keating comes from the world of serious photojournalism—he was a staff photographer at the New York Times for more than a decade, has been nominated for the Pulitzer nearly a dozen times, and won for his coverage of 9/11. But he’s also long had a tie to wedding photography: He co-created the NYT column, “Vows,” and his own wedding photos (twice nominated for Pulitzers) are bar none.

The spirited duo behind A Guy + A Girl, Michael Kelley and Lauren Saldutti, are masters at capturing shots that feel full of life. Their portfolio is playful in the best way, and every wedding they shoot looks more fun than the last. Typically, Michael and Lauren shoot separately (with a second photographer), but you can book them together. They’re fully bi-coastal, with posts in both NYC and LA.

Real-life couple Ken Juska and Ro Agents come as a two-for-one package deal that includes both DJ and photographer. In addition to his practice as a beautiful collage artist, Kenan DJ's a long-standing radio show, Chances with Wolves. At weddings, he's known for playing records that keep everyone on the dance floor without selling out to the predictable set list—expect lots of Motown and everyone saying "I love this song—I haven't heard it in forever!" Ro is a documentary photographer during the week, whose style shines through in her photography, as nothing ever seems posed or staged. She's got a way with natural light, always finding the best spots for post-ceremony family shots. They're based in Brooklyn, but they'll travel (to Manhattan and beyond) for weddings.

Scrolling through John Dolan’s website is the digital equivalent of flipping through a beautifully curated coffee table book. Dolan does his fair share of editorial and advertising work, and his images have the dramatic, energetic quality of both. When it comes to weddings, he’s a master of discretion. He excels at capturing intimate moments—a quiet conversations in the corner, the setting of a veil, guests’ expressions when they catch their first glimpse of the bride. Dolan prefers film over digital and is based in New York City and the Berkshires.

Roey Yohai runs his New York studio with his wife, Zoe. The couple met many years ago while Yohai was in Greece on assignment, when he was a photojournalist. The photographer’s experience shooting candid portraits, wanderlust-y travel pictures, and, of course, editorial spreads means Yohai brings a depth and realism to his images. Instead of staged (and, too often, stiff) wedding pictures, he excels at capturing natural, spontaneous moments.

Let’s start with a caveat: Christian Oth is tough to pin down. To guarantee availability, you’ll want to book a year in advance. Really. This popularity is warranted. Oth and his team are at the top of the wedding photography game. They leave no detail uncaptured, and the finished product is somehow editorial and glamorous. Oth is conscious of just how much effort goes into the small details, whether it’s the flowers or the candles of the hem of a bride’s dress, and he’s a master of capturing it all.

Sure you can have a fantastic gathering without the services of Jacqueline Suskin and her old-timey typewriter, but why would you want to? She can set up her Poem Store virtually anywhere and will tap out beautiful, one-of-a-kind poems for guests right on the spot.

Magbooth is kind of like the people's photo booth: Take your pick of props and custom logos, and never worry about going over some preset picture limit. The best part: every rental comes with an attendant, which significantly minimizes mid-party technical difficulties.

It's thanks to Élan Artists that we were lucky enough to have the accordion-wielding Carte Blanche Band perform at our Net-a-Porter dinner. Their roster of entertainers is as deep as it is broad, with acts that run the gamut from cabaret-style burlesque dancers to string quartets to a Jersey Boys tribute band.

45 Riots is the real deal—members of their band are not only regulars on the New York nightclub circuit, but they've also toured globally, playing in bands for Prince, Sting, Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys...the list is as impressive as it is long. They're universally considered to be one of the best Motown bands in New York, and their combination of old-school classics and newer songs (their big-band version of "Drunk in Love" is insane) makes them incredibly easy to dance to. Our advice? Wear flats.

Legendary florist Katsuya Nishimori first made a name for himself as the chief floral designer at the floral shop inside the Japanese department store Takashimaya. When Takashimaya shuttered in 2010, Nishimori and his team opened up their own place in Flatiron. They're known for daring, architectural arrangements with a distinctly Japanese aesthetic. Most of the flowers come from their organic farm in upstate New York, about eighty miles north of the city.

L'Olivier Floral Atelier consistently produces some of the most remarkable floral arrangements in New York: You can find Olivier Giugni's work in monumental arrangements in hotels and restaurants all over the city, but you can also have smaller arrangements tailored to your home. He's a great resource if you’re planning a wedding or a party.

Operated by husband-and-husband team Michael and Darroch, Putnam & Putnam's gorgeous, otherworldy arrangements grace the tabletops of some of the city's most exquisite events and weddings. (The amazing team supplied the incredible florals for GP's wedding.) They also deliver smaller-scale arrangements and host classes and workshops. Most recently, the duo opened its first retail location in Moxy Chelsea, where they turned the hotel's entrway into a verdant, lush, botanical reprieve from the city.

Denise Fasanello is a fine artist by trade, so it makes sense that her arrangements have a museum-worthy quality. She's particularly skilled in trimming arrangements with wildflowers and rustic elements, which creates a texture and volume that's as unexpected as it is beautiful.

Why we love Robert's floral services: You tell him what kind of flowers you like, and what your color scheme is; he comes along and personally makes beautiful flower arrangements in your space.

Fleurs NYC supplied the incredible hydrangea centerpieces for our Net-a-Porter garden party. Their aesthetic is clean and approachable, so nothing feels overdone.

With and adorable shop and more than a decade's worth of experience crafting extraordinary, seasonal bouquets, Denise Porcaro kind of spearheaded the boutique floral movement in NYC. She's also responsible for the recent resurgence of flower crowns, which make for sweet bridal shower and birthday party additions.

Mimi Brown's background is in fashion (she had a stint at Zac Posen before transitioning back to her floral business), and it shows. Her bouquets are discerningly elegant—never over-designed or fussy, kind of like you did the floral arrangements yourself...but better.

Named after founder Taylor Patterson's childhood farm in Delaware, Fox Fodder is a next-level floral design studio based in Greenpoint. The studio itself is by-appointment-only, but you can order an arrangement online to be delivered anywhere in the city. The seasonal arrangements are anything but ordinary; they feel found rather than fussed over—but they're made all the more special by the custom stoneware, smoked glass, and hand-thrown ceramic vases they arrive in.

Founded in 2006, Saipua specializes in handmade olive oil soaps and dreamy floral arrangements. Their flower farm, Worlds End, is located on 100-plus acres of rocky clay soil Upstate, about thirty miles west of Albany. Depending on the season, the farm grows narcissus, tulips, fritillaria, muscari, quince, hyacinth, ranunculus, and so on. Three cool things about Worlds End: It's also home to a flock of Icelandic sheep; it runs primarily on solar energy; and it uses all of Saipua's flower waste as compost.

BRRCH is a floral design studio that operates out of the Lower East Side of Manhattan as well as in LA. It was started by Brittany Asch, who got her start in the flower industry with an internship at Saipua. A never-ending wealth of flower inspo, Ash's style is timeless; her arrangements are often reminiscent of an oil painting, meaning they are masterfully done. Seasonal arrangements (and slots at occasional workshops) can be purchased online.

There are few rooms more soothing than one packed with plants. Abundant greenery is the niftiest tactic to summon nature, induce calm, or warm up a scant tablescape or too-roomy room. But buying enough plants to echo the garden of Eden is costly, never mind the time involved in finding the perfect royal fern or tallest fiddle-leaf fig. Then we discovered the Plant Library. With both an East (NYC) and West (SF) Coast presence, this smart start-up has been a godsend—and best of all, it’s sustainable. The process couldn’t be more straightforward: Pick a bevy of plants or tabletop arrangements—thriving potted cacti, evergreens, or desert greens—to pack a space as big or small as your needs demand. The Plant Library will deliver them for your event, and when you’re done, these short-term party guests are collected and rented again.

Primarily an event- and editorial-focused stylist, Amy Merrick's arrangements are lush, evocative creations with creative combinations of classic flowers with foliage, branches, and unexpected fruits like blackberries. She teaches floral design classes out of her Brooklyn studio and delivers single arrangements as her schedule allows; it's definitely worth trying her for a special occasion.

Liza Lubell has more than a decade's experience working with botanicals–and her experience shows. Every bespoke piece she and her team creates has an ethereal, organic, whimsical quality, reminding us that to stop and literally smell the roses–and revel in their ephemeral beauty. Simply gorgeous arrangements for wedding, parties, or any occasion, for that matter.

New Yorkers have been bowled-over by the totally random, sumptuously over-the-top flower arrangements that have been sprouting up on street corners, around trash cans, and over city landmarks since 2016. This exercise in random delight is the work of Lewis Miller and his team of florists. Miller grew up a California farmer’s kid. Horticulture school followed a childhood spent in the garden, and now he runs a large studio in New York City. He is a true creative. For an artist like Miller, flowers can elevate a humble city block. Imagine what the man can do with a wedding. To get an idea, flip through his coffee table book (published by Rizzoli) or request a meeting at his studio.

Jason Murakawa is the guy you contact if you want your tables set with Havilland porcelain, antique sterling silver flatware, and circa 1860 crystal goblets. Small Masterpiece can also provide table settings for your party in New York City. Photo credit: Styled by Bellafare, shot by Heather Waraksa.

Corrin Arasa's collection of vintage couches, chairs, rugs, and tables is so vast that it lives in a 5,000-square-foot warehouse in Brooklyn (open to visitors by appointment only). And it's not all large-scale furniture either—take a peek at the miles-long roster of smaller rentable props like lamps, baskets, floor pillows, and surfboards.

These guys specialize in the kind of techy stuff (lighting and audio visual design) that would make the average person's head spin. Coincidentally, it's the behind-the-scenes stuff that has the power to make or break a special event, and they nail it every time.

This Brooklyn-based suiting shop is the subject of a Lena Dunham-produced HBO documentary coming out this fall (we’re eagerly counting down the days). The concept is to create bespoke suiting for all genders. Not only are their suits tailored with the finest craftsmanship, they’re also filling an enormous gap in the wedding market by creating a bespoke, fitted suiting option for women and non-gender-conforming people, who—for myriad reasons—are not interested in a traditional wedding dress.

Stefanie Cove is the mastermind behind some of the most memorable goop events (our dinner with Net-a-Porter and last year’s celebration with Diane von Furstenberg), not to mention a goop staffer's wedding. As the owner and creative director of NYC/LA-based Stefanie Cove and Company, she really is the very best planner around, with a deep rolodex of amazing vendors.

Chris Hessney founded his eponymous event planning and design company after more than ten years of working in the event management field. He’s earned a reputation for his expertise in brand identity and decision making (and excellent taste, we must add), with a roster of clients that includes Vogue, Andre Balazs, Stuart Weitzman, and many others. He thoroughly considers every detail.

For events that require not only meticulous attention to detail when it comes to the décor and organization, but also pitch-perfect food, Mary Giuliani and her team are the go-to. Everything from flowers to mixology to décor (and more) comes as a part of her service. She intertwines the latest in the food and entertaining worlds, exemplified in her recent collaboration with Chef Mario Batali. If you’re looking to bring the flavors of your favorite Batali restaurant to your next party, Mario by Mary catering offers seasonally inspired Italian menus that will surely create a memorable culinary experience. For a quick taste of the collaboration, check out Mario by Mary's new Italian fast casual concept at The Pennsy.

Though Mr. Boddigton's one-of-a-kind creations are the stuff of legend, they've put custom services on hold for a while. Luckily, the collection of pre-designed invitations, place cards, thank you notes, and more is plenty to tide you over.

Run by art director and designer Lisa Hedge, Venamour's dreamy wedding stationery suites are broken down into three floral-themed collections: botanical, wildflower, and viridian. Each one is even more beautiful than the last.

We got to know the awesome Eliza Gwendalyn during our NYC goop MRKT—she lent her calligraphy talents to our pop-up, the party invitations, and place settings. She runs a full-service design house, and her hand-lettering work is absolutely stunning, whether it’s a wedding invitation, party favor, or the homepage of your website.

This super-versatile design studio works with a team of skilled calligraphers, offering essentially any and every style of lettering conceivable. Far beyond your standard envelope, Paper Finger makes very cool maps for destination events, as well as sophisticated programs, menus, and table settings for special meals. They also sell non-custom stationery online and host calligraphy workshops.

Ellen Weldon has been creating lavish invitations for New York weddings for close to three decades. And does she know what she’s doing? Let’s put it this way: Estée Lauder was her first client. A specialist in the art of calligraphy, Weldon offers different styles, ranging from the more printed-looking type that is straight caps to the dramatic swirling font that is Venetian. Be sure to allow at least three months, especially if your heart is set on one of Weldon’s custom monograms for the invitations.

Just outside New York City, in the lovely area of Oyster Bay, you’ll find the Printery headquarters. The location is in the town’s charming old clapboard newspaper building. But the setting isn’t for show: All the vintage printing presses are, miraculously, still in use. Invitations, save-the-dates, announcement cards—you name it—are all handmade and engraved on the printing presses using rich stock. The company is available for private consultation appointments in the city on Wednesdays at locations chosen by the client—your home, the office, a local café, it’s up to you.

Ramblin' Dan (aka Dan Griffith) and sometimes his wife Julie Dicterow are hands down our number one pick when it comes to kid's party entertainment. Their focus is on getting little ones to express themselves through music, so naturally, audience participation is a big part of the experience.

Magbooth is kind of like the people's photo booth: Take your pick of prop and custom logos and never worry about going over some preset picture limit. The best part, though, is that ever rental includes an attendant, which significantly minimizes mid-party technical difficulties.

When you need to call in the big guns, you call Ken. The guy behind Sean Parker’s over-the-top Big Sur wedding also does interior design (he's put together some of San Francisco's most beautiful restaurants, and his Pottery Barn collaboration just launched), but he's best known for his events. Lavish, creative, and undeniably fun, he sort of has a Midas touch for unforgettable parties.

Although her corporate events are really beautifully executed (no surprise, with clients like Salesforce, Airbnb, and Pier 24), Alison is best known for her gorgeous weddings in Northern California (and really, all over the world). She's expert at creating an experience that feels uniquely personal and not recycled.

The folks behind Yonder are really graphic designers for your entire event, not just paper goods. Involve them in the early planning stages, and they'll keep everything consistent from the invitations to the place cards. Their unique offerings—some of the beautiful scene—can range from engraved wood place cards to custom seals.

Cotogna and its more formal sister restaurant, Quince, are beloved San Francisco staples, so it's no surprise that their catering business is booming. Tusk Events (named for Lindsay and Michael Tusk, the husband-wife pair who run both places) can handle events of any size, offering casual Italian family-style fare from Cotogna, more formal options from Quince, or anything in between. Also good to remember: Cotogna's big tables can easily be reserved for large parties–a nice option if you're looking to host a fairly large gathering with minimal effort.

Bi-Rite is actually a neighborhood market—it's best known for hyper-local fruits and vegetables and a seriously good deli. Their catering business is capable of everything from a few pre-made meals to a full course dinner, and we love their big platters, which are perfect (and perfectly easy) for corporate events. Their famous ice cream, made in their in-house creamery, makes picking the dessert option a no-brainer.

Taste has been serving San Francisco for more than 30 years, and in those three decades, they've established excellent relationships with local farmers–you’ll know exactly where your tomatoes, beef, and even your coffee comes from. Considering Northern California's year-round bounty, you'll be getting farm-fresh food regardless of season. They also offer full-scale event planning.

Jessica Lasky's meals always feel homemade, even when she's serving a huge crowd. With straightforward menus and a rustic style (think beer bottles on ice in old washtubs and charcuterie plates served on well-loved cutting boards), they do excellent dressed-up family style.

Paula LeDuc is sort of a San Francisco institution. She's been catering in the city for years, and is credited with introducing the concept of farm-to-table to the industry. Her exquisitely designed meals are best suited for sit-down events; for a black-tie wedding, there's really no one better.

In the past few years, Waterlily Pond has organized several ambitious floral installations that are actually public artworks (including commissions for the de Young Museum). When it comes to their commercial business, they deliver excellent sculptural arrangements and structures—call them for attention-grabbing centerpieces, well-crafted chuppahs, and pretty much anything you might want suspended from the ceiling.

While they call themselves a catering company—and their food is fantastic—McCalls is really a full-service event group. With wedding planning and floral design departments in-house, they bring a lot of resources to the table (pun fully intended) and are a great option if you're looking for a single point of contact.

Torryne Choate is a truly talented designer. While she can take on any floral challenge you throw her way, she's especially skilled at handling those way-harder-than-they-look homogenous sculptural arrangements—not to mention crafting flower crowns that put your Pinterest to shame. For our San Francisco pop-up shop, we asked her to put together arrangements to complement the architectural space; needless to say, she didn't disappoint.

Robert Fountain definitely has a flair for the dramatic, in the best possible way. Call him when an event requires something extra special, whether it be ambitious projected lighting, a lavish Indian tent, live performers, sky-high centerpieces, or, in at least one case, a live elephant.

The folks at Bloomers are fantastic at incorporating unusual flowers into arrangements. If you're hoping for African violets or parrot tulips and unsure how to style them, this is the shop to call.

Floral design is in Natalie Bowen's genes (her mother was a florist, and her grandmother ran the flower shop at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco back in the 1940s). Her own style has a great sense of balance—the arrangements are lush without ever seeming over-the-top. And while flowers are her specialty, she also offers full-scale event design, from lighting to signage to linen and furniture rentals.

Janis' Instagram feed is an excellent place to get a feel for her classic calligraphy and illustration style. You'll find perfectly arranged inspirational quotes, carefully lettered envelopes from her current projects, and a few of her quirky and whimsical illustrations.

Stanlee Gatti is a fixture of the San Francisco event scene—his all-star client list includes Elton John and George Lucas, and he even planned the wedding for San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom. Stanlee works best at large scale—some of our favorite moments include pantone chairs at an SFMoMA gala and towering pillars of calla lilies at a SAG Awards gala.

This supremely talented jazz band includes drums, trumpet, stand-up base, piano, and of course, a sultry singer. Even though they definitely have a signature style, they can adapt their set to your taste.

David Kimm is an electric violinist at heart, but he also has exceptional DJ skills, so if you're looking for a traditional DJ but with a little edge, he's your guy. He also knows his way around sound equipment, meaning he can hook up your speakers without subjecting your guests to screeching microphones.

Magik Magik fancy themselves a "made-to-order" orchestra. They started out as a service for bands, composers, and other creatives who needed scalable string music for different projects, before bringing it to the public. You can hire their musicians and scale them to the size of your event, whether you’re looking for a full 80-piece ensemble or just a single, talented violinist.

When an event calls for a string quartet, these women get the job done. They all play in major orchestras and their song list is exhaustive: they can even do pop.

The name kind of says it all: These guys are all about straightforward chairs, tables, and linens, all of which they can provide in large quantities. They're also really reliable and well-priced, meaning you won't get your bill only to realize you spent half your budget on napkins.

All party planners know that professional photographs will probably never have the social media power of the ones your guests take themselves. Awesome Booth takes care of the camera as well as the props, the prints (they wirelessly share them with your guests), and the backdrops.

Shelter Co.'s business concept is completely unique: They've built an entire event-planning company around a gorgeous collection of luxury tents that they put to use in a variety of ways. You can rent just one for a small backyard party, or you can ask them to build out luxury accommodations in the wilderness. For those really remote events, they can also bring in catering, lighting, and general design.

Helmed by Jesse Kivel and Michael David (of Kisses and Classixx fame, respectively), this creative collective is lightyears away from cheesy wedding DJs. Simply put, these guys have stellar taste in music. For example: A mix can run the gamut from Missy Elliott to The Supremes to Iggy Pop, with some under-the-radar stuff thrown in for good measure. We're told their vinyl collection is second to none.

Magbooth is kind of like the people's photo booth: Take your pick of prop and custom logos and never worry about going over some preset picture limit. The best part, though, is that ever rental includes an attendant, which significantly minimizes mid-party technical difficulties.

Elan's cadre of beach-wood benches, rattan chairs, and rustic tables is best suited for outdoor events—they've been curated to blend into natural surroundings rather than overpower them.

Wedding invites are Julie Song's bread and butter, but her illustrations, calligraphy, and branding are all excellent, too. She's also really popular, so get in touch with plenty of lead-time. (Julie is responsible for the gorgeous watercolor menus at our goop x Net-a-Porter dinner.)

Paige Winn kind of kills it when it comes to the full wedding photography experience. She captures all of the special moments and her portraits never feel staged—plus, she's really easy to be around.

Ryan is a photographer with a talent for capturing the connection between a couple. Unsurprisingly, he does great engagement portraits, too.

Eric Buterbaugh arranges the most beautiful bouquets from quality flowers that last. He's a pleasure to work with, and has long been one of our go-to florists in Los Angeles.

With a long list of corporate and private clients, Mindy Weiss and her team take care of absolutely every detail. What sets Mindy Weiss apart is her great eye for fun and unusual decorations that manage to always fit the theme just right in a contemporary way. Weddings, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, luncheons, and corporate parties are all part of her trick bag.

Known for modern and beautiful letterpress stationery, Sugar Paper also does great holiday cards, wedding invitations, and monogramming. The tiny shop (in the Brentwood Country Mart) also offers cards and paper goods from Rifle Paper Co., Kate Spade, and more—and they can wrap any gift (just bring a box) while you wander the mart.

From everyday flowers and plants to bouquets for weddings and other special occasions, The Empty Vase has been reliably churning out stunning bouquets of exceptional quality for years. It's worth a walk into the store, but they do also deliver.

Jonathan Wright offers beautiful 19th century-esque engraved style stationery and custom letterpress for those who value the power of a written note. They're great with everything from a basic thank you card to ornate wedding invitations.

There are many reasons why we love Annie Campbell, not the least of which is her understanding that good passed apps have to be bite-sized. Her food is consistently delicious and presented in a reliably creative, beautiful way—so pretty, in fact, you don't need much else in the way of decorations.

For kiddie birthdays, Venice Beach-based Fire and Creme’s party boxes are nothing short of life changing. Choose from tableware, decoration, and goodie bag boxes (or just pick up all three and save yourself a headache), all of which fit a certain theme—Cowboy Wanted, Gone Surfing, and Party Like a Gypsy are standouts. For extra brownie points with the littles, check out the dress-up section.

Since 1998, Michele Gan has been catering for crowds of up to 1,000—all with organic, locally sourced food. They offer a host of other services like service staffing, floral arrangements, and other design and décor arrangements for events, though catering is their primary art.

Bloom & Plume arrangements are pretty much unlike anything else out there: Maurice Harris has a telltale flair for the artistic, which results in bouquets and centerpieces that are more botanical sculpture than traditional arrangement. (Take a peek at his Instagram feed to see what we mean—he also did the flowers for our first Cookbook Club.)

Max Wanger is well known for his soft, minimalist style (best showcased by his instantly recognizable overhead shots), a sensibility shared by all the creatives who work for his booming business. All the photographers under his umbrella share a beautiful, editorialized aesthetic, so it really doesn’t matter if you can't book Max himself.

Bonnie Tsang is one of the most sought-after event photographers in town, thanks to an excellent reputation for honing in on the most joyous, memorable moments and capturing them in a way that's natural and stylized all at the same time.

Lara Porzak is a real-deal fine art photographer who just happens to pick up a limited amount of events per year, just for the fun of it–though tons of big names have hired her to do snap their weddings. She shoots real film—almost unheard of these days—and develops her predominantly black-and-white prints by hand.

With her little cart in tow, Cloe Lane spins fresh cotton candy you can enjoy in peace knowing only organic cane sugar, plant-based colors, and all-natural flavors were used. Speaking of flavors: horchata, chai tea, and salted caramel are just a few of the standouts.

Stefanie Cove is the mastermind behind some of the most memorable goop events (our dinner with Net-a-Porter and last year’s celebration with Diane von Furstenberg), not to mention a goop staffer's wedding. As the owner and creative director of NYC/LA-based Stefanie Cove and Company, she really is the very best planner around, with a deep rolodex of amazing vendors.

Sure you can have a fantastic gathering without the services of Jacqueline Suskin and her old-timey typewriter, but why would you want to? She can set up her Poem Store virtually anywhere and will tap out beautiful, one-of-a-kind poems for guests right on the spot.

What's special about Gypset is that most design elements (their outdoor structures and lighting compositions are mind-blowing) are produced in-house, so you're pretty much guaranteed a 100% unique experience. Their sweet spot is elaborate large-scale events.

When you think chocolate-dipped bananas, you probably think kids. But consider this: Hannah's bananas, which she serves out of a tricked-out vintage trailer or a cute push-cart, are gourmet—dipped and sprinkled with customizable toppings on the spot for each guest. That's something everyone can get behind.

The team at Whoa Nelly (the two co-founders/chefs cut their teeth at AOC before striking out on their own) believes that what makes an event menu special–whether it's buffet-style, small bites, or family style–are the ingredients. Here, produce is sourced exclusively from local farmers and proteins are all sustainable, all the time.

When it comes to non-cake celebratory desserts, donuts have long since eclipsed the cupcake. As evidenced by an ever-present line, the ones at California Donuts are some of fluffiest and freshest in town. The shop is open 24/7, but you have to call ahead to order their signature donut letters.

No matter the size of the gathering, Hungry Bear masters really delicious food in perfectly timed courses. Best of all, there's nothing unpredictable or overly fussy about the menu options, so guests aren't left deciphering what's on their plates.

Formerly known as Jamaica Cakes, this unassuming little bakery on Pico cranks out some of the most jaw-droppingly elaborate, Food Network-worthy cakes we've ever seen. While not quite as festive as the multi-tiered creations, the cookies, pies, and cupcakes are just as delicious.

This all-female Mariachi band is the real deal, and they've got two Grammys and legions of fans to prove it. Book well in advance.

This is a real-deal jazz band who can get people on the dance floor and then keep them there. Two of the founding members are the guys behind Dart DJ, so expect to hear some pop mashups with the classic stuff—like takes on Neil Young, Daft Punk, and David Bowie.

While bluegrass is their claim to fame, this trio's repertoire is pretty far-reaching. They'll perform in any number of styles—from jazz to classical to country—to suit any occasion.

Brothers Daniel and David Landau have a sweet, folksy sound (their instruments of choice are cello, guitar, and voice) that brings an intimate ambiance to picnics, birthday parties, weddings, and any other occasion. They’re known for their coffeehouse-style covers of everything from 80s classics to rock, pop, and jazz standards. They also expand to a trio or quartet as needed.

Equal parts floral boutique and adorable gift shop, Twig & Twine is best enjoyed in person rather than over the phone. Owner Heather Williams' calling card is incorporating unexpected elements into her arrangements, be they succulents or rare, alien-looking blooms.

Downtown's wholesale flower market (it takes up close to two city blocks) is a DIY goldmine. Yes, there are fresh flowers and succulents—both locally and globally grown—as far as the eye can see. But you can also come here to snag supplies like vases, gardening tools, and ribbon for a song. Pros get first dibs daily; the general public can pay a $2 admission fee during the week and $1 on weekends.

Tiny Pine Press isn't actually all that tiny: They've been in the business of classic, handmade letterpress goods for over a decade. While it's often our go-to for custom menus, invites, and place cards, their repertoire also includes calling cards, personalized stationery, and branding materials.

Kimm Birkicht is a beloved LA-based floral designer with deep industry roots, which translates to an innate understanding that every arrangement—whether it's for a wedding, family gathering, or work event—needs to speak to the client's individual aesthetic.

When generic folding tables and chairs simply won't do, Jeni Maus's impressive archive of everything from distressed-wood seating, to tufted couches, to vintage trunks is clutch. Each piece is hand-sourced by Maus herself and can be rented à la carte or as a pre-styled vignette—rugs, pillows, vases, and all.

Casa de Perrin is the brainchild of Josh and Diana Perrin, who've lovingly compiled a miles-long catalog of pretty exceptional vintage china, cutlery, and glassware. Their table settings are unabashedly romantic, though there are plenty of more subdued options thrown in for casual celebrations.

The Atlanta outpost of Jackson Durham was so popular that founders Heath Alan Ray and Charles Vance decided to spread the wealth to Dallas and enlisted Todd Events alum Sara Fay Egan to run the show. While they’re a full-fledged event planning company with insane vendor connections (both domestically and abroad), designing lush floral concepts is their sweet spot.

The focus at Kerri Ellis Davis and Margretta Hill Wikert's Highland Park Village shop is custom monograms, which they can apply to all the obvious stuff (invitations, linens, coasters) as well as the not-so-obvious (leather coolers, dining chairs).

As if we needed any more proof that legendary party planner Todd Fiscus can do no wrong, his beloved Highland Park flower shop just moved to a bigger, better space. This means more room (two beautiful floors-worth) for candles, vases, cut blooms, an orchid bar, and a small but beautiful outdoor garden.

Three Branches is operated by two sisters, so it's safe to say floral design is literally in their blood. There's purity to their bouquets and centerpieces as they often stick to monochromatic palettes and no more than a few types of blooms per arrangement.

Grange Hall's unusual arrangements definitely feel like they're in a class of their own. Keeping in theme with the otherworldly nature of their shop (one of Dallas's best), their floral arrangements look like they could be found in a cabinet of curiosities. They're excellent at incorporating unusual props like feathers, ribbons, and oddly-shaped vases.

Much like its restaurant, Mi Cocina catering specializes in traditional, elevated, incredibly tasty Tex Mex food. Thankfully, whether you go for passed appetizers or a complete sit-down dinner, it can (and should) be accompanied by the killer margaritas.

Bubbly, hilarious, and well-versed in the music that gets people out of their chairs and onto the dance floor, Lucy Wrubel is a bona fide Dallas celebrity. She spins at all manner of events, from big fashion parties (she killed it at the goop shop opening party) to private events and even offers "musical wallpaper" services for restaurants and shops.

This is the kind of old-school, full-service catering business that puts the same amount of effort into a basic breakfast buffet as they do an all-out holiday dinner. But Alberto Lombardi and his wife Vivian don't just stop at food: Their staff will gladly set up, serve, and then clean up any event, big or small.

Unlike many other stationers, Jill Efrussy Sour doesn't make her clients choose from pre-designed templates. Instead, she starts them off with a detailed questionnaire to help figure out a 100% custom motif to best suits their sensibility.

While his business runs the gamut from backyard BBQs to formal dinners, Chef Chris Patrick really excels at in-home catering for clients hosting formal events. Patrick's menus are incredibly creative (don't skip dessert).

We've sung the Joule's praises for its nice rooms and fantastic restaurants, so it's really no surprise their catering department (they'll tweak the existing CBD Provisions menu to your liking or simply start from scratch) and event spaces are great as well. Oh, and they cater off-site parties, too.

Steve Wrubel—husband to DJ extraordinaire Lucy Wrubel—is by no means a minimalist. No matter the subject matter (though big celebrations are his forte) the resulting photos are sure to be full of life and color.

While you can order Fluff Pop ahead of time, the best way to incorporate the made-for-grown-ups cotton candy into an event is to have it spun for your guests on-site. People go crazy for the flavors (guava, lychee, cotton candy).

Everything is bigger in Texas, and it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Dallas' foremost event planner wholeheartedly subscribes to that philosophy. Todd's events are lavish and glamorous in the best way, and there's no challenge he won't take on. Looking for a water feature with live performers? On it. 400 square foot ómbre flower wall? Consider it done. They recently joined forces with Suite 206 Luxury Event Rentals, too, who has one of the most comprehensive rental libraries we've ever seen.

Nicole is a great classic calligrapher. You can select from a number of different styles, and while she's based in Dallas, she takes orders from across the country. And yes, she really is left-handed.

These guys definitely rule when it comes to super-fancy, high-end catering (not everyone in town has served meals to both Presidents Obama and Bush). But it's about more than the food for Cassandra—clients rave about the impeccable service and reliability.

Jordan Kahn Music Company is like a traditional wedding band on steroids. All five members have years of experience, so their renditions of all the party staples (Boogie Shoes, Shout, Rebel Yell) sound just as good as the real thing.

With three locations and a newly minted event space—boasting two levels of exposed brick and a courtyard—A New Leaf is a pretty sizable operation with a boutique-y, refreshingly approachable sensibility, which is good since special occasion and wedding florals are their jam. In fact, we asked them to beautify a number of Chicago goop pop-related events. And while they happily take phone orders, we suggest stopping by the Old Town flagship in person to DIY a bouquet from a garden’s worth of cut flowers and color-coordinated ribbon wall. There are also two outposts in Old Town.

With four full-time planners on staff, LK offers some serious resources to put behind large-scale events like galas and corporate shindigs. They’ve been working in Chicago for ages, meaning that you can reap the benefits of their long-term relationships with all of the best vendors in town.

The founder of Brix Catering was a sommelier before he broke off to start his own catering business, which means the bar and the wine pairings here can always hold their own against the well-crafted menus. Scale wise, they'll do everything from a few charcuterie plates to a multi-course, formal dining experience. If your event doesn't call for staffed catering, you can pick up one of their "Brix boxes" a day in advance and throw everything in the oven before your guests arrive (we’ve heard that their Thanksgiving boxes can rival even the best home-made spreads).

Becky Hill is really good at taking photos of camera-shy people. If you’re the kind of person who might cock your head in the most unflattering direction right when the shutter starts, she’ll kindly and gently steer you in the right direction.

Brett and Kiri are an adorable married couple with a great eye, and they can do pretty much anything; a quick review of their weddings shows urban shots for an art-obsessed couple and black-and-white portraits for an elegant city wedding. We should also note that these two are especially talented at photographing pets.

It's no surprise that we're excited about DJ Megan Taylor, who's quickly making a name for herself as one of Chicago's best DJ's in what has traditionally been a very male-dominated space. Ask for her Backstreet Boys and N’SYNC remixes (seriously, trust us on this one).

With a large team of talented photographers in their quiver, Gerber + Scarpelli are seasoned pros. Their photographers all have a lot of experience, which means they know how to capture an event without getting in the way—you'll also be grateful for the reliably fast turnaround times.

DJ Jem is extremely sought-after on the Chicago nightclub circuit (this is the guy that opened for Calvin Harris when he was in Chicago), but despite all of his success, you can trust him to adapt his set to your event.

For the kind of event where your guests leave with hoarse voices from belting it out all night, bring in the Gold Coast All Stars. An insanely energetic 12-piece band that covers all of the classics, they are the ultimate big party band. Expect their singers to be down on the floor dancing with the crowd.

With a signature preppy style, the team at Nico and Lala does more than design invitations—they'll create an entire brand around an event. Our favorite is a construction-themed kids party (tagline: can you dig it?).

In addition to invitations, Magnificent Milestones produces great event accessories like matchbooks, napkins, custom stamps, and toothpick flags, helpful if you're trying to stick to a consistent theme. Unrelated but good to know: They make beautiful custom holiday cards.

Housed in an adorable stationery boutique, the team at Elizabeth Grace will handle the entire invitation process for you, from design, to calligraphy, to actually popping everything in the mail.

Family owned and run by a mother-son duo, this place has been around forever with a reputation that speaks for itself. Repeat clients love that there's no need for detailed direction: Let them do their thing and you won't be disappointed.

The bouquets at Fleur are consistently elegant and original without ever feeling over the top. Their environmental creations are particularly outstanding, like the verdant floral chandelier they created to hang above the tables at weddings.

You might know Jayson Home for the gorgeous store (great furniture and other home goods), but their floral department is one of Chicago's best-kept secrets. The proof is in the pudding: See the elegant white-and-green bouquets they arranged for the Chicago #gooppop dinner. So simple, and so good.

If you tend to get wires crossed and dates confused (or if you're just busy), Katie Jackson-Meara is probably your dream event planner. Veteran clients gush that her detailed itineraries plan everything out to the minute. She's also a stylist, which is clutch for brides who need a neutral opinion on dresses, hair, and makeup leading up to the big day.

With a client list that includes Chanel, Prada, and Louis Vuitton, you can be sure that Truffleberry Market (now merged with Paramount Cantering) has been properly vetted. Their events are known for adventurous menus and presentation, with dishes like mini lobster corn dogs, cucumber sandwiches wrapped in a delicate bow, and goat cheese cones. The team here is always up for a challenge, making them a great option if you have an ambitious theme.

This is an invaluable, freakishly user-friendly food truck tracking and booking tool that services the bulk of major U.S. cities. If you're in SoCal, consider Dogtown Dogs, Kogi Truck, and Urban Oven—we've had great experiences with all three. (More food truck inspo, here)

Anne Robin has been doing calligraphy for most of her life, and it shows. She'll gladly churn out traditional scripts, be it for invitations, place cards, or monograms, but her true talent lies in designing unique, modern styles you won't find anywhere else.

Minted came up with a fool-proof system for making sure clients get exactly what they want—and it all starts with a rich assortment of save-the-dates, menu cards, invites and so much more, all pre-designed by an artist. (They also do fully custom stationery and invites.) Once you've picked something you like, you can tweak it to perfection. And don't skip over the Art Marketplace, it's hands down one of the best places online for affordable art.

This online service essentially functions as a virtual party planner (or a search engine for handymen, tutors, accountants, etc.). You submit a request for say, a Washington-based magician, and wait for available pros to respond with quotes and details. Once you're ready to pull the trigger, you can book directly through the site or app.

Whether it’s a wedding, luncheon, anniversary, or kid’s birthday, this is a truly priceless resource if you’re looking to host somewhere other than at home.

For kiddie birthdays, Venice Beach-based Fire and Creme’s party boxes are nothing short of life changing. Choose from tableware, decoration, and goodie bag boxes (or just pick up all three and save yourself a headache), all of which fit a certain theme—Cowboy Wanted, Gone Surfing, and Party Like a Gypsy are standouts. For extra brownie points with the littles, check out the dress-up section.

These are not your average party-store fare. Geronimo mastermind Jihan Zencirli’s creations come in a rainbow of balloon-and-frill combos and are so massive they require as much helium as 30 standard balloons. She'll gladly accommodate special requests if you don't see what you want in her online shop.

Disposable party supplies are meant to make life easier, but more often than not, finding ones that aren't hideous is hard. Elliewood's themed Party Packs (which can accommodate up to 40 guests) and Parties-in-a-Box aren't just beautiful, they're practical, too: every element from cups, to plates, to decorative accessories is accounted for. For procrastinators, there’s a two-day shipping option.

Pictures don’t really do Scott's marquees justice: Most are made from up-cycled materials and can be shipped everywhere. Not only does he have pre-made and rentable options, he’ll custom build logos, lettering, signage, and more.

Sure, photo booths have become regular party staples, but these guys figured out a way to elevate the experience by way of bigger, glossier formats, GIF-making capabilities, blacklight booths, and custom backgrounds and props. Headquarters are in NYC but they can easily accommodate more far-flung locations.

This is a one stop shop for browsing and booking all sorts of live entertainers—from musicians to DJs to toastmasters. What's more, they provide client reviews and sample contracts to simply the process.

With warehouses all over the country, Classic is a no-frills—but consistently reliable—rental resource that specializes in the basics: tables, chairs, tents, lighting, and linens. They've been at it for 30 years, so their customer-service game is on point.

We love Paperless Post. So much so, that we collaborated on a bunch of limited edition cards a few years back. Since then, they've teamed up with the likes of Oscar de la Renta, Kelly Wearstler, and goop pal, Derek Blasberg on tons of digital and physical invitations (many free options, too!). They also do brisk business with birthday cards and personal stationery.

Founded by a bridal magazine editor who brought a big fat Rolodex, The Bridal Bar is like a virtual concierge for wedding planning specializing in the Los Angeles and San Diego Areas. They vet vendors in every category, going way beyond photographers and wedding planners—you can come to them for bachelorette party suggestions, honeymoon ideas, and cinematographers. The best part? It's completely free. Photo credit: Docuvitae