Planning To Plan: A Guide To Part-Time Wedding Planning

Wedding planning is a challenging yet rewarding career path. It requires intensive planning, organisation, scheduling, and coordination to pull off a major live event. While there is no specific path to becoming a wedding planner, there are several steps you can take to get started. First, establish clear-cut goals and conduct industry research. Next, gain hands-on experience through internships or entry-level roles, and build your clientele through networking. You may also want to pursue a certification to expand your knowledge and market yourself as a trusted source. Finally, create business and marketing plans, and continue learning about the latest trends in the industry.

Seek out learning opportunities

To become a wedding planner, it is important to seek out learning opportunities to advance your knowledge about the wedding planning industry. Here are some ways to do that:

• Follow wedding planners on social media: Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are great resources for aspiring wedding planners. Follow successful wedding planners and industry leaders to gain insights into their work, including behind-the-scenes content, client testimonials, and visual inspiration. You can also use social media to network and build connections with professionals in the industry.
• Listen to wedding podcasts: Podcasts offer a wealth of information and can be a great way to learn about the latest trends and best practices in the wedding planning industry. Wedding podcasts often feature interviews with experienced planners, venue coordinators, and other industry experts, providing valuable insights and advice for newcomers.
• Attend seminars and workshops: In-person learning events such as seminars, workshops, and conferences can provide valuable knowledge and networking opportunities. These events often feature industry experts sharing their experiences and best practices, allowing you to learn from their successes and mistakes. They also offer a chance to connect with other aspiring and established wedding planners.
• Read industry publications: Stay up to date with the latest trends, ideas, and news in the wedding planning industry by reading relevant publications. Magazines like BRIDES and websites like The Knot and Brides.com offer a wealth of information on wedding planning, including real wedding features, vendor guides, and expert advice. Reading these publications will help you understand the latest trends and gain inspiration for your future events.
• Join professional associations: Consider joining professional associations or organizations specifically for wedding planners, such as the Association of Bridal Consultants or the Association for Wedding Professionals International. These organizations often provide resources, networking opportunities, and industry insights that can be invaluable for aspiring wedding planners. They may also offer certifications or continuing education programs to enhance your credentials.
• Take online courses: Enrolling in online courses specifically designed for wedding planning can provide a structured learning path. Courses may cover a range of topics, including event design, destination wedding planning, and business aspects of wedding planning. Some schools, like The QC Event School, offer mentorship opportunities with experienced wedding planners, providing valuable guidance and industry connections.

Get hands-on experience

Gaining hands-on experience is crucial if you want to become a wedding planner. Interning, volunteering, or working alongside an experienced wedding planner will allow you to learn the ins and outs of the industry and develop your skills. It will also provide you with a solid foundation if you plan to start your own business.

You can gain experience by interning or working as an assistant for a wedding planner or at a wedding planning company. This will give you an insight into the day-to-day work of a wedding planner and help you build valuable connections in the industry. It is important to note that this work can be gruelling and may involve long hours, but it will be invaluable for your career.

If you are unable to secure a position with a wedding planner or planning company, consider applying for other positions within the wedding industry, such as working for a caterer, florist, or decorator. This will give you an opportunity to work at different venues, see how vendors operate, and gain an understanding of the physical demands of working at weddings.

You can also try applying for positions at hotels, resorts, and country clubs, as these places often host weddings and can provide you with relevant experience.

Once you have gained some initial experience, you can start building your own clientele. Networking is a great way to meet vendors and other professionals in the industry, who may be able to refer you to potential clients. Creating a business card and a website can also help promote your personal brand and make it easier for people to contact you.

Another way to gain experience and build your portfolio is by planning a styled photo shoot with other wedding vendors, such as photographers, caterers, bakers, and florists. This will not only give you an opportunity to showcase your skills but also allow you to establish relationships with other vendors who may recommend you to their clients.

Remember, gaining hands-on experience is a crucial step in becoming a successful wedding planner and will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in this exciting and rewarding career.

Network with professionals

Networking is an essential tool to get your foot in the door of 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.

Join a Professional Association

Join a professional association for wedding planners to help you meet like-minded individuals and move forward in your career. Within these groups, you can exchange resources and possibly learn about job opportunities.

Practice Communication and People Skills

Wedding planning requires working with many personalities, so networking provides an opportunity to practice your communication and people skills.

Meet Vendors and Other Planners

Networking is key if you want to become a wedding planner. Professional organizations are a great way to meet vendors that you can enlist for upcoming events while fostering relationships with other wedding planners in your area.

Build Relationships

The importance of relationship-building can't be overstated. Your business will thrive because of the relationships you build, so give yourself time to make those connections. Reach out to venues, couples, vendors, and other planners.

Join Online Communities

Join online communities and forums to connect with other wedding planners and vendors. This can be a great way to get advice and support, as well as to find out about job opportunities.

Attend Industry Events

Attend industry events, such as workshops, conferences, and trade shows. These events can be great opportunities to meet people in the industry and learn about the latest trends and developments.

Be Personable

When approaching vendors and other planners, be personable and friendly. Building positive relationships will help you in the long run.

Consider getting a certification

While there is no formal education required to become a wedding planner, certifications can help you look more appealing to potential clients and provide useful information on how to become a wedding planner.

Benefits of Certification

• You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the wedding planning industry and how to build a business.
• Certification will make you more appealing to potential clients.
• You will learn about current trends in the industry.
• You will receive a certificate, a letter of recommendation, and a professional designation upon completion.
• You will have access to mentorship and continuing education opportunities.
• Certification can help you build a network of other professional planners.

Certification Options

There are several organizations that offer wedding planning certification, including:

• The American Association of Certified Wedding Planners (AACWP)
• The Wedding Academy
• Lovegevity's Wedding Planning Institute
• The QC Event School

Course Content

Courses typically cover a range of topics, including:

• Event design and vendor selection
• Budget management
• Building a business
• Industry trends
• Planning fundamentals
• Entrepreneurship
• Wedding planning timeline
• Building a contact list
• Interviewing skills
• Handling emergencies
• Religious and cultural traditions
• Reception planning
• Floor plan design
• Banquet event orders
• Wedding etiquette

Course Format

Certification courses are usually offered in a flexible format to accommodate those with busy schedules. For example, the AACWP offers a combination of videos, digital downloads, and live Q&A sessions with a Training Course Director. Lovegevity's program includes instructor-led and self-study options, as well as one-on-one video or phone conferences. The QC Event School also offers online courses with the added benefit of a real tutor who owns their own wedding planning business.

Cost

The cost of certification varies, with prices ranging from $700 to $2,500 and up. It's important to consider your budget and the value that certification will bring to your business.

Create a marketing plan

Marketing is a crucial aspect of a wedding planning business. Here are some strategies to create a robust marketing plan for a part-time wedding planner:

Develop a Website and Online Presence:

Start by creating a professional website that showcases your services, rates, experience, and contact information. Ensure it is user-friendly, visually appealing, and optimised for search engines. Utilise tools like Wix to design your website or hire a professional. Additionally, establish a strong social media presence on platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and TikTok. Share photos, testimonials, and relevant content to attract your target audience.

Understand Your Target Audience:

Identify your niche and target market. If you plan weddings for young couples, focus your marketing efforts on platforms they frequently use, such as Instagram and TikTok. If you specialise in destination weddings, build relationships with vendors and venues in popular destinations. Understanding your audience ensures your marketing messages resonate with the right people.

Utilise Free Directories and Online Tools:

List your business on free online directories and platforms such as WeddingWire, OneWed, Yelp, Yellow Pages, and Google My Business. These listings increase your online visibility and provide backlinks to your website, boosting your search engine optimisation (SEO). Focus on SEO by incorporating well-researched keywords into your website content and blog posts.

Network and Build Relationships:

Networking is essential for success in the wedding planning industry. Connect with venues, vendors, and other wedding professionals. Collaborate with local wedding venue owners and establish mutually beneficial relationships. Attend industry events, join professional organisations, and interact with peers to expand your network and create potential partnership opportunities.

Showcase Your Work and Testimonials:

Curate a portfolio of your best work by hiring a professional photographer to capture the special moments at weddings you plan. Display these photos on your website and social media to showcase your unique style and talent. Encourage feedback and testimonials from couples and include them on your website and social media to build trust and credibility.

Stay in Touch with Past Clients:

Maintain regular communication with past clients by sending them greetings and informing them about special offers. Satisfied clients are more likely to refer your business to their friends and colleagues, expanding your network and potential client base. Word-of-mouth marketing is powerful in the wedding planning industry.

Leverage Blogging and Content Creation:

Create compelling content, such as blog posts, promotional videos, infographics, or email newsletters, to engage your audience and showcase your expertise. Share valuable tips and insights related to wedding planning to attract your ideal clients. Blogging also helps improve your website's SEO and increases your chances of being found online.

Collaborate with Publications:

Pitch unique story ideas to wedding blogs, magazines, and local or national news publications to get featured. Share your expertise, showcase your business, and increase your brand awareness. If you secure a feature, don't forget to share it on your social media channels and add it to a "press" section on your website.

Remember, a successful marketing plan for a part-time wedding planner involves a combination of online presence, networking, content creation, and building relationships with both clients and industry professionals.

Frequently asked questions