James Bond 007 Columbian Ball
The 44th Annual Columbian Ball transported guests to a James Bond-inspired evening of gadgets, jet-setting design, and a memorable fundraising reveal.
Services
Galas & Nonprofit Events
We specialize in fundraiser and gala planning for nonprofits and organizations seeking to engage donors and elevate their brand. From concept to production, every detail reflects your mission and creates a meaningful experience.
The discipline
How MAE approaches galas & nonprofit events.
Full-service planning and production rooted in Chicago, delivered with the same standard wherever you celebrate.
Michigan Avenue Events is a premier luxury gala planner specializing in high-end charity galas, black-tie fundraisers, and sophisticated nonprofit events. We provide full-service gala planning and event production, including venue sourcing, sponsorship strategy, donor experience design, custom event branding, auction and entertainment coordination, floral and décor design, audiovisual production management, and seamless on-site execution.
Our team partners with foundations, corporations, and philanthropic organizations to create elevated fundraising galas that inspire generosity and maximize revenue. Serving the North Shore to Lake Forest and international markets, we design immersive, results-driven gala experiences that strengthen donor relationships, enhance brand prestige, and deliver measurable fundraising success.
At Michigan Avenue Events we can partner with you in a variety of ways. Consider us an extension to your team!
The Michigan Avenue Events Planning Experience
Planned With Intention. Executed With Precision.
From the first idea to the final guest departure, every detail is handled with the care and precision that define our standard.
Every extraordinary event begins with a thoughtful plan. From the initial consultation and creative direction through design, production, and day-of execution, Michigan Avenue Events brings clarity and intention to every stage of the process.
Whether planning a luxury wedding, corporate event, or gala, our team manages the details, timelines, logistics, and trusted vendor relationships behind the scenes, so decisions feel considered, the process remains seamless, and you can be fully present for the experience.
Related work
From the portfolio.
A selection of celebrations that reflect the design, precision, and attention to detail behind every Michigan Avenue Events experience. We can provide many more event visuals upon request.
Black Creativity Gala
A record-setting fundraising evening celebrating Black creativity, innovation, artistry, and cultural excellence across Chicago and beyond.
Science in Our Everyday Lives Columbian Ball
The 45th Annual Columbian Ball celebrated science in everyday life while elevating donor engagement, sponsorship visibility, and fundraising performance.
Questions
Frequently asked.
Straight answers about process, scope, and what working with MAE feels like.
Every celebration is custom, so these FAQs are a starting point. For timelines, destinations, or investment questions specific to your date, drop us a hello.
What type of planning do you offer?
We offer full-service planning for luxury events, conferences, galas, weddings, birthdays and fabulous celebrations of all types, including destination events. We prefer to plan with our clients from start through finish (full planning) to ensure the best experience. This includes venue scouting, vendor recommendations and selection to full event production and execution. Oftentimes we get requests for custom projections and consultation.
Why Michigan Avenue Events?
Michigan Avenue Events is recognized as one of the premier luxury event planning firms in the United States, known for high-profile and celebrity clientele, client satisfaction and exceptional value-driven execution. With over two decades of experience, we specialize in luxury weddings, star studded events, corporate galas, and large-scale productions that demand discretion, precision, and elevated design. Our reputation is built on consistent client satisfaction, seamless event management, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. We combine strategic planning, refined aesthetics, and operational expertise to deliver extraordinary experiences that exceed expectations while protecting our clients’ investment. For discerning individuals and brands seeking a trusted, nationally respected event planner, Michigan Avenue Events represents sophistication, reliability, and measurable return on experience.
How far in advance should we hire a planner?
Most weddings and large-scale galas are booked 9-18 months in advance, especially for peak season (May-October) or destination celebrations. For corporate events and smaller gatherings, 3-6 months is typically sufficient. Reach out even if your timeline is tight; we can often accommodate based on availability.
As seen in
Recognition
Features and awards that spotlight the celebrations - and the clients - we are honored to serve.
Drop a Hello
Let's begin with hello.
Tell us about the celebration you're imagining: the city, the season, the feeling. We'll take it from there.