Becoming A Wedding Planner: Steps To Success

If you're a hopeless romantic with a passion for planning, becoming a wedding planner might be your dream job. Wedding planners are responsible for overseeing almost every aspect of a couple's wedding, from the design to the timeline and budget. While it can be a challenging role, it's also incredibly rewarding, giving you the chance to build long-lasting relationships and turn a couple's vision into reality. So, how can you break into this exciting industry?

Establish your goals and conduct research

Establishing your goals and conducting research is the first step to becoming a wedding planner. This involves figuring out the type of wedding planner you want to be and what your goals are. For example, you might want to plan small, large, or destination weddings, or hold an advanced position in a wedding planning agency or own your own business.

Once you know your goals, you can conduct specific industry research. This includes finding reliable blogs and publications that offer tips and career insights, compiling a list of potential employers, and learning about the demand for the types of weddings you want to plan. You should also research the market by looking at industry studies, such as WeddingWire's Newlywed Report and Brides.com's American Wedding Study.

It is also important to consider your personality traits and skills. Wedding planners need to be highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to make decisions and guide the couple in a high-pressure atmosphere. They also need strong communication skills, as they will be dealing with many people, including couples, their families, and vendors.

If you are entering this field with no experience, it is a good idea to take an online course to learn the "ins and outs" of wedding planning. You can also intern with a wedding planning company or wedding venue to gain experience and see if this career is for you.

Get experience

Gaining practical experience is a crucial step in pursuing a career as a wedding planner. Here are some ways to get started:

• Internships: Consider applying for internships at wedding planning agencies or individual wedding planners. This will allow you to gain first-hand experience and learn the ins and outs of the industry. It's a great way to build your skills and network with professionals in the field.
• Entry-level positions: Look for part-time or full-time entry-level roles in wedding planning or related industries like event planning. These roles can provide valuable experience and help you understand the wedding planning process.
• Volunteer work: Offer your services to friends, family, or people you know who are planning their weddings. This will give you the opportunity to apply your knowledge and build a portfolio. You can also use these opportunities to gain testimonials and build your reputation.
• Networking: Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with other wedding planners, vendors, and photographers. Building a network can provide valuable connections and inspire your work.
• Mentorship: Find a seasoned wedding planner who can mentor you and guide you through the day-to-day realities of the job. This is especially helpful if you want to start your own wedding planning business.

Remember, gaining experience is an ongoing process. The more weddings you plan and the more people you connect with, the more you'll learn about the industry and develop your skills as a wedding planner.

Build a network of clients and vendors

Building a network of clients and vendors is a crucial step in becoming a successful wedding planner. Here are some strategies to help you get started:

Attend Networking Events:

Go to local industry events, meetings, and trade shows to connect with other wedding vendors and professionals in your area. This will allow you to meet potential vendors, learn about their services, and build relationships. It's also a great way to stay updated on the latest trends in the wedding industry.

Utilize Online Platforms:

Make use of online platforms such as Facebook groups, Instagram, and Pinterest to connect with other wedding professionals and vendors. Follow florists, caterers, musicians, photographers, and other vendors on social media. Engage with their content by sharing, commenting, and reacting. Don't be afraid to reach out and build relationships. Social media is a powerful tool for networking and can help you stay connected with your vendor network.

Read Reviews and Blogs:

Check online reviews on websites like TheKnot.com, WeddingWire.com, Yelp.com, and Google to find highly-rated local vendors. Reading blogs from other wedding planners can also give you insights into the vendors they consistently use and recommend. Reach out to these vendors and schedule meetings to discuss potential collaborations.

Join Professional Associations:

Consider joining a professional association for wedding planners. These organizations provide excellent networking opportunities and allow you to connect with like-minded individuals. You can exchange resources, learn about industry trends, and even find out about job opportunities. These associations can help you build a strong network of vendors and suppliers.

Build Relationships:

When building your network, focus on cultivating strong relationships with vendors. Be friendly, approachable, and easy to work with. Stay in communication with your vendor contacts, and don't be afraid to ask for referrals. A good relationship with vendors can lead to future collaborations and referrals, which are essential for growing your wedding planning business.

Be Strategic:

While building your network, be strategic about the vendors you add to your preferred list. Choose vendors who align with your company's ethos, aesthetic, and work style. Select vendors who are reliable, professional, and easy to work with. Remember, your reputation is on the line with every recommendation you make to your clients.

Consider a certification

While a certification is not a requirement to become a wedding planner, it can be beneficial if you want to establish yourself as a trusted and knowledgeable source in the wedding planning industry. A certification can set you apart from other planners and make you a more enticing potential vendor for couples to hire.

There are several organisations that offer wedding planning certifications, including:

• The American Association of Certified Wedding Planners (AACWP): AACWP offers both in-person and online training courses that cover various aspects of wedding planning, such as defining the role of the wedding planner, assembling the "Dream Team" for your client, and handling emergencies. The course consists of videos, digital downloads of course materials, and direct interaction with the Training Course Director in live Q&A sessions. Upon completion of the course, you will receive a certificate and can apply for membership as a Trained Wedding Planner with AACWP.
• Lovegevity's Wedding Planning Institute (LWPI): LWPI offers a comprehensive certification program called the Certified Wedding & Event Planning (CWEP) program. The program includes hands-on internships, instructor-led and self-study options, one-on-one video or phone conferences with instructors, and access to a library of resources and templates. The average time to complete the course is 8-12 weeks, and graduates receive a certificate, letter of recommendation, and the professional Certified Wedding and Event Planning designation.
• The Wedding Academy: The Wedding Academy offers a Certificate in Wedding Planning that takes approximately three months to complete.
• Online Courses Australia: Online Courses Australia offers a Wedding Planner Certificate that can be completed in an estimated 12 study hours.

Create a business and marketing plan

Creating a business and marketing plan is an essential step to starting a wedding planning business. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Market Analysis

Before starting your wedding planning business, it is crucial to analyse the market and competition. Understand the demand for event management services in your area and assess whether couples in your target market are open to the idea. This will help you determine if there is a viable opportunity for your business.

Develop a Website and Social Media Presence

In today's digital age, having an online presence is essential. Create a user-friendly website that showcases your brand, services, and unique selling proposition. Utilise social media platforms such as Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to reach your target audience and create a buzz around your company. Remember to direct your marketing efforts towards the platforms your target audience is most likely to use.

Identify Your Target Audience

Understanding your target audience is crucial for effective marketing. Identify the demographics and preferences of the couples you want to work with. This will help you tailor your services, pricing, and marketing strategies to appeal to them. For example, if you plan on specialising in destination weddings, focus on building relationships with vendors and venues in popular destinations.

Build a Strong Online Presence

In addition to a website, invest in search engine optimisation (SEO) to ensure your website appears high on search engine results pages. Use well-researched target keywords and optimise each page on your site, including blog posts, to boost your visibility. Establish a strong social media presence by posting engaging content consistently, using relevant hashtags, and interacting with your audience.

Network and Collaborate

Networking is an invaluable tool for wedding planners. Connect with other professionals in the industry, such as vendors, venues, and fellow wedding planners. Building relationships can lead to referrals, collaborations, and a stronger presence in the wedding industry. Consider joining professional associations or groups specifically for wedding planners to expand your network.

Get Certified

Although not mandatory, obtaining a certification in wedding planning can set you apart from your competitors. It adds credibility to your business and establishes you as a trusted and knowledgeable expert in the field. Look into certification options offered by trade groups and associations, such as the American Association of Certified Wedding Planners or Longevity's Wedding Planning Institute.

Develop Marketing Collateral

Create marketing materials that showcase your brand and services. This can include brochures, business cards, and other promotional items. Invest in high-quality photography to capture the best moments from the weddings you plan and display them on your website and marketing materials. Testimonials and reviews from satisfied clients are also powerful tools to include in your marketing collateral.

Stay in Touch with Clients

Building strong client relationships is essential for a successful wedding planning business. Stay in touch with your past clients by sending them greetings on special occasions and keeping them informed about your latest offerings. Satisfied clients are more likely to refer your services to their friends and colleagues, helping you expand your client base.

Frequently asked questions