Planning A Career In Wedding Event Management

Wedding planning is a tough but rewarding job. Wedding planners are responsible for almost every aspect of a couple's big day, from finding and hiring vendors to creating schedules and ensuring the event follows the correct timeline. If you're interested in becoming a wedding planner, there are several steps you can take to pursue this career.

First, establish clear-cut goals and conduct industry research. Determine what type of weddings you want to plan and whether you want to work for an agency or own your own business. Then, gain practical experience through internships, entry-level roles, or related industries like event planning. Build your network and clientele by attending industry events and creating a business card to promote your personal brand. Consider pursuing a certification to expand your knowledge and let clients know you're capable of organizing memorable events. Develop a business and marketing plan to communicate your offerings to potential clients. Finally, continue learning and stay up-to-date with the latest trends by attending seminars, enrolling in classes, and reading industry publications.

Establish your goals and conduct research

Establishing clear-cut goals and conducting research is the first step in becoming a wedding planner. This involves figuring out what type of weddings you want to plan, such as small, large, or destination weddings. It's also important to consider whether you want to work for an agency, own your business, or be a freelance wedding planner.

Once you have a clear idea of your goals, it's time to start researching the industry. This includes finding out how much money you can make, whether wedding planners are in high demand, and how to land your first client. Familiarize yourself with the job requirements by exploring wedding planners' websites and social media platforms. Look for reliable blogs and publications that offer tips and career insights, and compile a list of potential employers.

Additionally, consider seeking formal wedding planner training or certification. While it's not required, it can be beneficial to learn the ropes and ins and outs of the industry, especially if you have little to no experience. The American Association of Certified Wedding Planners and the Lovegevity Wedding Planning Institute are examples of organizations that offer training and certification programs.

• How much money can I make as a wedding planner?
• Are wedding planners in high demand?
• How can I get my first client?
• What are the job requirements and day-to-day tasks of a wedding planner?
• What type of weddings do I want to plan (e.g., small, large, destination)?
• Do I want to work for an agency, own my business, or be a freelance wedding planner?

By establishing clear goals and conducting thorough industry research, you'll be well on your way to becoming a successful wedding planner.

Get experience

Gaining practical experience is an important step in becoming a wedding planner. This can be achieved through internships, entry-level positions, or roles in related industries like event planning. Internships at agencies or with wedding planners and venues are a great way to gain on-the-ground experience and build connections in the industry. Entry-level positions can provide valuable insights into the wedding planning process, allowing individuals to learn from experienced professionals. Working in event planning or similar fields can also help develop relevant skills and knowledge.

When applying for internships or entry-level roles, it is important to stand out by being personable and doing thorough research about the company and its owner. Building a strong network within the industry is crucial, as it can lead to future opportunities and help individuals gain experience working with various vendors.

Additionally, partnering with a seasoned mentor can be invaluable, especially for those who want to start their own wedding planning business. A mentor can provide guidance on the day-to-day realities of the job and help mentees avoid common pitfalls.

For those who prefer a more structured approach, diploma programs in wedding planning offer comprehensive training in contract negotiations, vendor relations, budget management, marketing strategies, and bridal registries. These programs also cover different types of wedding ceremonies, attire, stationery, and etiquette.

Overall, gaining hands-on experience is essential for aspiring wedding planners to refine their skills, build industry connections, and develop a strong understanding of the wedding planning process.

Build a network of contacts

Networking is an important tool to get your foot in the door in the wedding planning industry. Talking to other people in the industry will help you learn about the job, build connections for the future, and inspire you to work towards your goals. Plus, because wedding planning requires working with many personalities, networking provides an opportunity to practice your communication and people skills.

Identify Networking Opportunities

There are countless networking opportunities out there, especially on social media. Follow florists, caterers, musicians, photographers, and other wedding professionals on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. This keeps you updated on their services and business developments and makes reaching out easier.

Joining Facebook groups and other online communities for wedding professionals is another way to widen your connections. Vendors regularly use these groups to promote their services, so there are plenty of collaboration opportunities waiting to be picked up. To find wedding communities on Facebook, search for keywords such as "wedding professionals" or "wedding suppliers London".

Wedding trade shows are also a great way to connect with professionals from all corners of the wedding industry. Some examples of wedding trade shows to look out for include The National Wedding Show and The Suffolk Wedding Show.

Reach Out

Before reaching out to a supplier or fellow wedding planner, ensure that your social media profiles are in good condition. Treat your Instagram grid as your shopfront—it should reflect your best work and instantly communicate what your brand is all about.

When reaching out, be personable. Don't send a canned email addressed to "Whom It May Concern" or "Dear Sir/Madam". Know who you're emailing and be friendly in your approach.

If you know of a wedding planner in your area, consider approaching them directly with a view to interning or shadowing them. Many wedding planning companies have a careers webpage or instructions on how to submit your resume.

Build Relationships

When building a network of contacts, it's important to be thoughtful and considerate. Before asking for favours, take the time to get to know people and ask about their recent achievements. When you do need something, be clear and concise in your ask.

If you're looking for supplier recommendations, ask other wedding planners in your network. A referral means you can be sure of the vendor's expertise and quality.

Stay in Touch

Networking is an ongoing process. Stay in touch with your network by commenting on their posts, reacting to their stories, and sharing their content.

You can also invite connections to meet up one-on-one and chat. If you have a good connection with someone, consider following up with a small gift.

Consider a certification

While a certification is not a mandatory qualification to become a wedding planner, it can be beneficial in establishing yourself as a trusted and knowledgeable source in the wedding industry. Obtaining a certification can set you apart from other planners and enhance your reputation as a reliable and skilled professional.

There are several well-known organizations that offer wedding planning certifications. The American Association of Certified Wedding Planners (AACWP), for instance, is dedicated to providing comprehensive training for aspiring wedding planners. They offer initial training programs as well as continuing education opportunities throughout the year. The AACWP also allows you to connect with expert wedding planners, access valuable industry resources, and create a searchable public profile to promote your services.

Another reputable institution is Lovegevity's Wedding Planning Institute, which offers the Certified Wedding & Event Planning (CWEP) program. This program provides a comprehensive educational roadmap that covers various aspects of wedding and event planning. Lovegevity offers both instructor-led and self-study options to accommodate different learning styles and schedules. They also provide internship opportunities, connecting you with industry experts and events to gain practical experience. Upon completion, you will receive your certification, establishing your expertise in the field.

The Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) also offers a Certified Wedding & Event Planning Course in collaboration with Lovegevity. This course equips you with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the planning industry. In addition to the certification, you will receive a letter of recommendation and the CWEP designation, enhancing your credibility as a recognized expert.

These certifications can provide you with the tools, resources, and connections needed to excel in the wedding planning industry. They offer a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, ensuring that you are well-prepared to tackle the challenges and complexities of planning weddings.

Create a business plan

Creating a business plan is a crucial step in starting a wedding planning business. Here are some key components to include:

Executive Summary

Begin your business plan with an executive summary, providing a concise overview of your wedding planning business. This section should include your business goals, mission statement, and a summary of how you plan to achieve success. It should be a brief document, ideally no more than three pages, that encapsulates the key elements of your business plan.

Company Summary

In this section, introduce your wedding planning business, including whether it's a solo venture or you plan to have a team. Share your backstory, location, and any other relevant details you would typically include on an "about" page on your website. This is also where you can include your unique value proposition and what sets you apart from competitors.

Products and Services

Get into the specifics of what products and services you will offer as a wedding planner. This is where you can go into detail about the scope of your services, from the initial planning stages to the execution of the wedding day. Be sure to include information on pricing and how you plan to stand out from the competition.

Market Analysis

Conduct a thorough market analysis to understand your target audience and develop strategies to attract their business. Identify your target market, not just the bride and groom, but also other stakeholders such as event planners and vendors. Analyze your competitors and identify ways to differentiate your business.

Strategy and Implementation

Develop a comprehensive sales and marketing strategy. Identify the tools and channels you will use to reach your target audience, such as social media, blogging, and industry publications. Outline your sales strategy, sales forecast, and any milestones you aim to achieve.

Management Summary

If you plan to have a team, provide an overview of the management structure, including names, titles, and responsibilities. Include information on the legal status of your business, such as whether it is a sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability company.

Financial Plan

Create a detailed financial plan that outlines your anticipated expenses and income. Include information on fixed and variable costs, marketing expenses, taxes, and any other relevant financial projections. If you require funding or loans, be sure to incorporate those details as well.

Frequently asked questions