Quick Overview
- 1#1: Planning Pod - All-in-one event management platform with robust vendor database, CRM, contracts, payments, and portal access for seamless coordination.
- 2#2: Tripleseat - Venue and event sales platform that streamlines RFP distribution, vendor sourcing, and contract management for hospitality professionals.
- 3#3: Cvent - Enterprise event management suite with advanced supplier discovery, vendor bidding, and performance tracking tools.
- 4#4: Event Temple - Cloud-based venue CRM that manages vendor relationships, event bookings, and collaborative planning workflows.
- 5#5: PerfectVenue - All-in-one venue management software for handling bookings, payments, staff scheduling, and vendor communications.
- 6#6: Caterease - Catering operations software that tracks vendor subcontracts, inventory, menus, and event fulfillment.
- 7#7: AI sle Planner - Wedding and event planning tool featuring vendor directories, timelines, contracts, and team collaboration.
- 8#8: HoneyBook - Clientflow platform for event professionals to automate proposals, contracts, payments, and vendor workflows.
- 9#9: Dubsado - Customizable workflow system for creatives and planners to manage leads, projects, invoices, and vendor interactions.
- 10#10: 17hats - Business automation tool for small event businesses handling client onboarding, scheduling, payments, and vendor management.
Tools were evaluated based on core functionality, user experience, reliability, and value, ensuring a balanced mix of robust features, ease of use, and practical benefits for event professionals of all scales.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores leading event vendor management software, including Planning Pod, Tripleseat, Cvent, Event Temple, and PerfectVenue, to guide effective tool selection. Readers will discover key features, pricing structures, and usability to align tools with their unique event planning requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Planning Pod All-in-one event management platform with robust vendor database, CRM, contracts, payments, and portal access for seamless coordination. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Tripleseat Venue and event sales platform that streamlines RFP distribution, vendor sourcing, and contract management for hospitality professionals. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Cvent Enterprise event management suite with advanced supplier discovery, vendor bidding, and performance tracking tools. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Event Temple Cloud-based venue CRM that manages vendor relationships, event bookings, and collaborative planning workflows. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | PerfectVenue All-in-one venue management software for handling bookings, payments, staff scheduling, and vendor communications. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Caterease Catering operations software that tracks vendor subcontracts, inventory, menus, and event fulfillment. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | AI sle Planner Wedding and event planning tool featuring vendor directories, timelines, contracts, and team collaboration. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | HoneyBook Clientflow platform for event professionals to automate proposals, contracts, payments, and vendor workflows. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 9 | Dubsado Customizable workflow system for creatives and planners to manage leads, projects, invoices, and vendor interactions. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 6.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 10 | 17hats Business automation tool for small event businesses handling client onboarding, scheduling, payments, and vendor management. | other | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
All-in-one event management platform with robust vendor database, CRM, contracts, payments, and portal access for seamless coordination.
Venue and event sales platform that streamlines RFP distribution, vendor sourcing, and contract management for hospitality professionals.
Enterprise event management suite with advanced supplier discovery, vendor bidding, and performance tracking tools.
Cloud-based venue CRM that manages vendor relationships, event bookings, and collaborative planning workflows.
All-in-one venue management software for handling bookings, payments, staff scheduling, and vendor communications.
Catering operations software that tracks vendor subcontracts, inventory, menus, and event fulfillment.
Wedding and event planning tool featuring vendor directories, timelines, contracts, and team collaboration.
Clientflow platform for event professionals to automate proposals, contracts, payments, and vendor workflows.
Customizable workflow system for creatives and planners to manage leads, projects, invoices, and vendor interactions.
Business automation tool for small event businesses handling client onboarding, scheduling, payments, and vendor management.
Planning Pod
specializedAll-in-one event management platform with robust vendor database, CRM, contracts, payments, and portal access for seamless coordination.
Integrated RFP and proposal management system that automates vendor bidding and selection directly within the event workflow
Planning Pod is an all-in-one event management platform designed for event professionals, with robust vendor management capabilities at its core. It enables users to build a centralized vendor database, send RFPs, manage contracts, track payments, and integrate vendor schedules into master event calendars. The software streamlines vendor coordination through dedicated portals, automated workflows, and real-time collaboration tools, making it ideal for handling complex event logistics.
Pros
- Comprehensive vendor tools including RFP automation, contract storage, and payment tracking
- Seamless integration with event calendars, tasks, and client portals for end-to-end coordination
- Customizable vendor directories and communication portals to reduce email back-and-forth
Cons
- Steeper learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Pricing scales up quickly for larger teams or advanced needs
- Mobile experience relies more on web app than a native app
Best For
Mid-to-large event planning agencies and production companies managing multiple vendors across high-volume events.
Pricing
Starts at $59/user/month (Pro plan, billed annually); higher tiers like Premium ($79/user/month) and Enterprise (custom) unlock advanced vendor features.
Tripleseat
specializedVenue and event sales platform that streamlines RFP distribution, vendor sourcing, and contract management for hospitality professionals.
Tripleseat Marketplace for discovering and directly booking vetted vendors within the platform
Tripleseat is a leading event management platform tailored for hospitality venues, enabling efficient handling of event sales, bookings, proposals, and execution. It supports vendor management through Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), task assignments, shared calendars, and integrations with vendor systems for seamless coordination. The software streamlines communication between venues, clients, and vendors, making it ideal for managing complex events with multiple suppliers.
Pros
- Comprehensive BEO and task management for vendor coordination
- Extensive integrations with POS, CRM, and over 100 vendor partners
- Robust reporting and mobile app for real-time event oversight
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small venues
- Limited standalone vendor portal without venue licensing
Best For
Mid-to-large hospitality venues and event spaces coordinating multiple vendors for weddings, corporate events, and banquets.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting at around $500/month, scaling with event volume, users, and custom integrations (typically $6,000-$20,000/year).
Cvent
enterpriseEnterprise event management suite with advanced supplier discovery, vendor bidding, and performance tracking tools.
The Cvent Supplier Network, providing access to 300,000+ verified global vendors with automated RFP tools.
Cvent is an enterprise-grade event management platform with powerful vendor management capabilities, enabling users to source suppliers from a vast global network of over 300,000 venues and vendors. It streamlines RFP distribution, contract negotiation, payment tracking, and performance evaluations all within an integrated suite. This makes it ideal for coordinating complex vendor relationships across multiple events, from sourcing AV providers and caterers to hotels and transportation services.
Pros
- Extensive supplier network for quick vendor discovery and RFPs
- Seamless integration with full event planning tools like registration and budgeting
- Robust reporting and analytics for vendor performance tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature-rich interface
- High cost unsuitable for small-scale events
- Limited customization options for unique workflows
Best For
Large enterprises and agencies managing high-volume, complex events with diverse vendor needs.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $10,000+ annually for enterprise plans, scaling with event volume and features.
Event Temple
specializedCloud-based venue CRM that manages vendor relationships, event bookings, and collaborative planning workflows.
Automated proposal and e-signature workflows that accelerate deal closures
Event Temple is a comprehensive event management platform designed primarily for venues but adaptable for event vendors to handle lead generation, bookings, and client relationships. It streamlines the event lifecycle with tools for CRM, automated proposals, contracts, invoicing, scheduling, and reporting. Vendors benefit from centralized client data and sales automation, reducing manual admin work for multi-event operations.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with minimal learning curve
- Robust CRM and sales automation tools
- Strong mobile app for on-the-go management
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small vendors
- Limited native integrations with other vendor tools
- Customization options are somewhat restricted
Best For
Mid-sized event vendors and venues managing 50+ events per year who need integrated CRM and booking capabilities.
Pricing
Tiered subscriptions starting at $199/month (Pro plan) up to custom enterprise pricing; billed annually.
PerfectVenue
specializedAll-in-one venue management software for handling bookings, payments, staff scheduling, and vendor communications.
Visual floor plan editor with real-time drag-and-drop event diagramming
PerfectVenue is a cloud-based venue management software tailored for event spaces, restaurants, and hospitality venues to streamline bookings, event planning, payments, and operations. It offers tools for managing floor plans, staff scheduling, inventory, invoicing, and customer relationships in one platform. While strong in venue-centric operations, it provides limited direct support for coordinating external event vendors like caterers or entertainers.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with mobile app for staff
- Comprehensive booking and payment processing
- Strong reporting and CRM tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller venues
- Limited integrations for external vendor management
- Advanced customization requires higher tiers
Best For
Small to mid-sized event venues needing an all-in-one solution for internal operations and bookings.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for basic plan (1 location), up to $399+/month for premium features; custom enterprise quotes available.
Caterease
specializedCatering operations software that tracks vendor subcontracts, inventory, menus, and event fulfillment.
Advanced recipe management with automatic scaling and costing adjustments for any event size
Caterease is a specialized catering and event management software tailored for caterers and event vendors, streamlining operations from initial proposals to post-event invoicing. It excels in food costing, menu management, inventory tracking, staff scheduling, and detailed reporting to optimize profitability and efficiency. With a focus on off-premise catering, it supports high-volume event handling through customizable workflows and QuickBooks integration.
Pros
- Robust food costing and recipe scaling for precise profitability analysis
- Comprehensive event workflow from booking to billing with strong reporting
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for streamlined accounting
Cons
- Dated Windows desktop interface feels outdated compared to modern web apps
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive feature set
- Limited mobile accessibility and no native iOS/Android app
Best For
Established caterers and high-volume event vendors needing advanced operational and costing tools for complex off-premise events.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $125/month for basic (up to 50 events/year), scales to $300+/month for unlimited events and multiple users; custom quotes available.
AI sle Planner
specializedWedding and event planning tool featuring vendor directories, timelines, contracts, and team collaboration.
Vendor Portal for real-time access to timelines, tasks, and galleries without needing full planner access
AI sle Planner is a comprehensive wedding and event planning software primarily designed for planners, featuring tools for client management, custom timelines, vendor directories, floor plans, and photo galleries. It includes a vendor portal that allows event vendors to access event schedules, upload deliverables, view galleries, and communicate with planners in real-time. While planner-centric, it supports vendor management by facilitating collaboration, payments, and resource sharing to streamline event execution.
Pros
- Robust timeline and scheduling tools accessible via vendor portal
- Integrated vendor directories and collaboration features
- Seamless photo gallery sharing and payment processing
Cons
- Primarily planner-focused with limited standalone vendor controls
- Higher pricing for full vendor-related features
- Moderate learning curve for portal navigation
Best For
Event vendors who collaborate closely with planners and need a shared portal for schedules, files, and communication.
Pricing
Starts at $39/month (Lite, billed annually) up to $119/month (Premium); vendor portal included in higher tiers.
HoneyBook
specializedClientflow platform for event professionals to automate proposals, contracts, payments, and vendor workflows.
Automated clientflow that seamlessly guides inquiries through proposals, contracts, payments, and project management in one app
HoneyBook is an all-in-one client management platform designed for creative professionals and small businesses, including event vendors like photographers, planners, and caterers. It streamlines the client lifecycle with tools for proposals, contracts, invoices, scheduling, payments, and automated workflows. For event vendor management, it excels in handling bookings and client communications but lacks specialized features for multi-vendor coordination or large-scale event logistics.
Pros
- Comprehensive clientflow automation from lead to payment
- Customizable templates for professional proposals and contracts
- Integrated scheduling and communication tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for solo vendors needing full features
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting for event performance
- Not optimized for team collaboration or vendor directories
Best For
Solo event vendors and small creative teams who need an intuitive platform to manage client bookings and projects without multiple tools.
Pricing
Starts at $19/month (billed annually) for Essentials, $39/month for Premium, $79/month for Unlimited; 7-day free trial.
Dubsado
specializedCustomizable workflow system for creatives and planners to manage leads, projects, invoices, and vendor interactions.
Drag-and-drop workflow automation that triggers actions like contracts and invoices based on client responses
Dubsado is an all-in-one client management platform tailored for service-based businesses like event vendors, photographers, and planners. It automates workflows from lead intake and customizable proposals to e-sign contracts, invoicing, payments, and client portals. For event vendors, it excels in streamlining booking processes, client communication, and project tracking without per-client fees.
Pros
- Highly customizable forms, proposals, and workflows for tailored event booking processes
- Integrated payments with no transaction fees, ideal for deposits and balances
- Unlimited clients and projects on most plans, with strong automation capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- Lacks native event-specific tools like RSVPs, guest management, or inventory tracking
- No dedicated mobile app, relying on web portal for on-the-go access
Best For
Small to mid-sized event vendors such as photographers, DJs, or caterers focused on client onboarding and payment automation rather than full event production.
Pricing
Plans start at $20/month (Mini, limited contacts) up to $60/month (Pro, unlimited everything), billed annually with a 7-day free trial.
17hats
otherBusiness automation tool for small event businesses handling client onboarding, scheduling, payments, and vendor management.
Visual workflow builder that automates custom client journeys from inquiry to invoicing
17hats is an all-in-one business automation platform tailored for small service-based businesses, including event vendors, offering tools for lead capture, client onboarding, scheduling, contracts, invoicing, and automated communications. It excels in streamlining vendor-client interactions through customizable workflows, online questionnaires, and integrated payments, reducing manual admin work. While versatile for general business ops, it provides foundational event vendor management but lacks deep specialization in areas like vendor procurement or event logistics.
Pros
- Intuitive workflow automation for lead-to-payment processes
- Affordable all-in-one solution with contracts and payments built-in
- User-friendly interface ideal for non-technical small teams
Cons
- Limited event-specific features like vendor directories or inventory tracking
- Basic reporting and analytics compared to dedicated event platforms
- Fewer integrations with event industry tools
Best For
Solo event vendors or small teams seeking simple, automated client and booking management without needing advanced event planning capabilities.
Pricing
Starter at $35/mo, Professional at $65/mo, Elite at $95/mo (annual billing discounts available; 14-day free trial).
Conclusion
After reviewing 10 leading event vendor management tools, Planning Pod emerges as the top choice, boasting an all-in-one platform that unifies vendor databases, CRM, contracts, payments, and collaborative access for streamlined coordination. Tripleseat and Cvent stand as strong alternatives: Tripleseat excels in RFP distribution and vendor sourcing for hospitality teams, while Cvent offers advanced supplier discovery and performance tracking for enterprise needs. Planning Pod’s balanced focus on versatility and ease of use makes it the most adaptable solution for most event professionals.
Take the next step in managing your events efficiently—explore Planning Pod today and experience the seamless coordination that sets it apart as the best vendor management tool available.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
