What to Charge? A Practical Guide to Pricing Event Planning & Decor Services in New Zealand

Pricing your event planning and decor services in New Zealand can be a bit of a puzzle, especially with the varied demands of different clients and events. This friendly, practical guide shares Kiwi-specific tips to help event planners and decorators set fair prices that reflect their skills and efforts, while attracting and retaining satisfied clients.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Calculate Your True Costs

Start with a detailed understanding of your costs: venue setups, decor materials, labour hours, transport, and any hired help.

For example, Auckland planners typically budget more for venue hire and transport, while regional providers in places like Nelson might invest more in customised handmade decor.

Knowing your baseline costs ensures you price services sustainably and don’t end up out of pocket.

2. Research Local Market Rates

Look at platforms like Yada, TradeMe Services, and wedding or event directories to benchmark pricing in your area.

Wellington’s event planners tend to charge more compared to towns like Whanganui due to demand and cost of living differences.

Knowing prevailing rates helps you stay competitive without undervaluing your work.

3. Offer Tiered Pricing Packages

Provide clear packages based on event size, type, and decor complexity - from small gatherings to large weddings.

Christchurch decorators might offer a basic styling package for $1,500 and a full service package, including setup and teardown, for $4,000.

Packages clarify client expectations and simplify quoting.

4. Account for Seasonal Pricing Shifts

High-demand seasons like summer weddings and holiday parties can demand higher rates-plan your pricing accordingly.

Bay of Plenty event pros often raise prices 15-20% during peak wedding months and festive seasons.

Communicating this clearly with clients builds trust and helps manage workloads.

5. Be Transparent About Extras

Always specify additional fees for last-minute changes, special rentals, or extended hours.

Wellington event planners commonly charge extra for extended event hours or bespoke decor elements.

Clear upfront communication reduces surprises and builds professional relationships.

6. Highlight Your Expertise and Style

Use your unique design style, awards, or niche expertise (like eco-friendly decor) to justify your pricing.

A Tauranga planner specialising in sustainable event decor stands out locally and commands higher fees.

Sharing your story and showcasing past events on Yada or social media helps clients connect with your brand.

7. Showcase Client Testimonials

Gather client feedback and display testimonials on your profiles and website to build trust.

Nelson event planners have grown their bookings significantly through consistently positive reviews on Yada and Facebook.

Real client stories provide social proof and justify your rates.

8. List on Multiple Trusted Platforms

Maximise exposure by listing your services on Yada, TradeMe Services, and local directories.

Yada’s platform has no lead or success fees so you keep more profit while reaching genuinely local clients.

Its mobile-friendly and responsive platform ensures easy communication and booking management.

9. Communicate Pricing and Customise Quotes

Use Yada’s private chat or phone calls to discuss bespoke client needs before finalising your quote.

A Christchurch planner often adjusts quotes based on client budgets or specific decor requests, boosting satisfaction.

Transparent, personal communication often leads to repeat business and referrals.

10. Avoid Undervaluing Your Service

Resist the urge to undercut competitors. Instead, emphasise professional quality, creativity, and reliability.

A Wellington event decorator maintains steady rates by consistently delivering memorable, well-executed events.

Kiwi clients will pay a fair price for trustworthy services that make their special days shine.

11. Regularly Review and Adjust Pricing

Keep track of your costs, market shifts, and feedback to update your pricing every 6-12 months.

Use insights from Yada’s platform, such as job trends and client ratings, to inform changes.

This ensures your business stays profitable and competitive over time.

12. Build Referral Networks Locally

Create partnerships with venues, caterers, photographers, and other event professionals for mutual referrals.

One Auckland planner expanded her clientele by collaborating with a popular local wedding venue and shared marketing efforts.

Strong local networks generate steady bookings and help justify your prices.