Senior Wedding & Event Planner

Unick Creative is a boutique wedding and event planning company based in the beautiful Paarl wine region. We specialize in creating personalized, unforgettable celebrations that reflect each client’s unique vision and style. Our team is passionate about transforming dreams into reality through meticulous planning, creative design, and flawless execution.

As Unick Creative continues to grow and expand our services to include both venue-based events and external functions throughout the Western Cape, we are seeking an exceptional Senior Wedding & Event Planner to join our team.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and creative Senior Wedding & Event Planner to join Unick Creative. This role involves the complete planning, coordination, and execution of weddings and special events from initial consultation through final delivery. The ideal candidate will bring fresh ideas, strong organizational skills, excellent vendor relationships, and a proven track record of delivering outstanding events that exceed client expectations.

You will manage your own portfolio of events independently while collaborating with our team to maintain Unick Creative’s reputation for excellence. This is an opportunity to work on diverse projects in stunning locations while being part of a supportive, creative team environment.

Key Responsibilities

Event Planning & Client Management

• Manage the complete event planning process from initial client consultation to post-event follow-up

• Conduct consultations to understand client vision, preferences, and budget requirements

• Develop comprehensive event proposals including timelines, budgets, and creative design concepts

• Create detailed floor plans, seating arrangements, and event layouts

• Design color schemes, themes, and overall aesthetic concepts tailored to each client

• Maintain excellent client communication throughout the planning process

Vendor Coordination & Relationship Management

• Source, recommend, and coordinate vendors including venues, caterers, florists, photographers, DJs, musicians, and decorators

• Build and maintain strong relationships with preferred vendor network

• Negotiate contracts and competitive pricing with suppliers and service providers

• Coordinate vendor deliveries, setup times, and breakdown schedules

• Manage vendor communications and ensure contractual obligations are met

Budget & Administrative Management

• Develop and monitor event budgets, tracking expenses against allocated funds

• Prepare detailed cost breakdowns and budget reports for clients

• Handle invoicing, payment processing, and financial record-keeping

• Maintain organized client files and comprehensive event documentation

• Update information in event management systems

Event Day Coordination

• Oversee complete event setup and ensure all design elements are properly executed

• Manage event timeline and ensure smooth transitions between activities

• Serve as primary point of contact for vendors, venue staff, and clients on event day

• Handle real-time problem-solving with professionalism and composure

• Coordinate breakdown and ensure venues are left in acceptable condition

Floral Design (Advantageous)

• Experience with floral design and execution is highly beneficial

• Ability to create centerpieces, bouquets, and ceremony arrangements

• Knowledge of flower varieties, seasonality, and pricing

Marketing & Business Development

• Contribute to social media content showcasing completed events

• Participate in bridal shows, wedding fairs, and industry networking events

• Generate leads through referrals and professional relationships

• Stay current with wedding and event industry trends

Requirements

Essential Experience & Skills

• Minimum of 8+ years experience in wedding and event planning

• Proven track record of successfully planning and executing weddings and special events

• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

• Creative vision and design sensibility

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

• Strong problem-solving abilities and calm under pressure

• Proficiency in budget management and financial tracking

Technical Requirements

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and/or Google Workspace

• Experience with event planning software and management systems

• Strong social media skills (Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest)

• Ability to create floor plans and visual proposals using Canva

• Excellent email communication and professional correspondence skills

Personal Attributes

• Passion for creating memorable celebrations and exceeding client expectations

• Client-focused approach with outstanding customer service orientation

• Professional, polished presentation and demeanor

• Flexibility and adaptability to changing circumstances

• Team player who also works effectively independently

• Diplomatic in managing client expectations and vendor relationships

Practical Requirements

• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required for events

• Valid driver’s license with reliable transportation

• Ability to lift and transport decorative items and event materials

• Comfortable with physical demands of event setup and execution

Preferred Qualifications

• Fluency in English and Afrikaans preferred

• Knowledge of the Western Cape wine region and local vendor networks

• Experience with floral design and execution

• Established vendor relationships in the wedding industry

• Event planning certification or relevant qualification

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications

• Opportunity to build your own portfolio of events with creative freedom

• Collaborative, supportive team environment

• Professional development and growth opportunities

• Work on diverse, high-quality events in beautiful locations

• Be part of a growing company expanding its market presence

• The satisfaction of creating unforgettable celebrations for clients

• Creative and dynamic work culture that values innovation and excellence

Location

Paarl, Western Cape, with events throughout the Western Cape region including venues in Paarl, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and surrounding areas.

How to Apply

If you are a passionate, experienced wedding and event planner ready to join a growing team and take your career to the next level, we would love to hear from you.

Please submit:

• Your CV/Resume

• A cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and why you’re the perfect fit for Unick Creative

• Portfolio or examples of events you have planned (photos, testimonials, or case studies)

• Professional references

Email your application to: info@unick.co.za