Utah Wedding Planner: Steps To Success

Planning a wedding can be a stressful and time-consuming process, so it's no surprise that many couples opt to hire a wedding planner to help them create their dream day. If you're interested in becoming a wedding planner in Utah, there are a few things you should know. Unlike some other states, Utah does not have any clear-cut requirements for working as a wedding planner, but that doesn't mean that anyone can do the job. To excel in this field, you'll need a combination of interpersonal skills and formal education. A good option for the latter is to take a course at a university, such as Southern Utah University, the University of Utah, Utah Valley University, or Utah State University.

No clear-cut requirements to become a wedding planner in Utah

There are no clear-cut requirements to become a wedding planner in Utah. However, acquiring certain skills and combining them with formal education will set you up for success in this career path.

Skills

To excel in wedding and event planning, you must be able to multitask, delegate, and work long hours. You should also be prepared to make last-minute decisions and deal with emergencies.

Education

Although there are no specific degree requirements, courses in event/wedding planning or related fields such as hospitality management can provide valuable knowledge and training. Here are some options for formal education in Utah:

• Southern Utah University, Cedar: Offers a degree in hotel, resort, and hospitality management (Bachelor of Art or Bachelor of Science).
• University of Utah, Salt Lake City: Students can earn a bachelor's degree in recreation and tourism, with a certificate in hospitality operations offered through the American Hotel and Lodging Association.
• Utah Valley University, Orem: Provides associate and bachelor's degrees in hospitality management through a combination of online and on-campus studies.
• Utah State University, Logan: Allows students to minor in event planning, even though they do not offer a degree program in hospitality management or event planning.

Certification

While not mandatory, professional certifications can enhance your credentials and increase your job prospects or business ownership opportunities. Here are some options:

• Certified Meeting Professional (CMP): Offered by the Event Industry Council, this certification requires at least three years of experience and the passing of a rigorous exam.
• Certified Meeting Planner: This certification also requires a minimum of three years of industry experience and the passing of an exam. The Event Industry Council awards this designation.
• Certificate in Meeting Management: Meeting Professional International (MPI) offers this certification.

Courses to consider for formal training

There are many courses available for aspiring wedding planners to gain formal training. The American Association of Certified Wedding Planners (AACWP) offers an online training course that covers various topics, including defining the role of the wedding planner, identifying the skills needed, understanding the services offered by professional planners, and building a business. The course combines videos from their in-house training and digital downloads of course materials. It is designed to be completed within four weeks, and students can interact directly with the Training Course Director through live Q&A sessions. Upon completion, students receive a certificate and are eligible to apply for membership as a Trained Wedding Planner (TWP) with AACWP.

The New York Institute of Art and Design (NYIAD) offers another online training course that is certified by the Association of Bridal Consultants. This comprehensive course covers business skills and working with clients, and it includes hands-on projects. The course is taught by professional wedding planners and offers on-demand video lessons, feedback from teachers, and access to advisors. Students have 18 months to complete the course.

Wedding Academy Global is an online certification training program that offers a range of courses, including Wedding Planning, Wedding Styling, Business & Marketing, Intimate, Micro & Destination Weddings, and Floral Design. Their courses are designed to be fun, informative, and flexible, and they have helped launch over 7,000 new careers in the wedding industry.

Lovegevity's Wedding Planning Institute offers a variety of options, including online courses, college classes, a masterclass, and internship opportunities. Their online wedding and event planning course covers 8-12 weeks of classes, a virtual student centre, and test prep. Graduates receive a certificate, a letter of recommendation, and the Certified Wedding Planner and Event Designer (CWEP) designation.

Additionally, Salt Lake Community College offers an online certified wedding planner course for those located in or near Salt Lake City, Utah.

Professional certifications to increase your chances

Obtaining a wedding planner certification will give you a competitive edge when applying for jobs and may increase your earning potential. According to Lasell University's Assistant Professor Siddharth Mobar, "There will be a reset of wages, cross-training as hotels will pivot to more efficient operations and there will be a demand for graduates with more specialized skills, professional hospitality industry certifications."

The American Association of Certified Wedding Planners (AACWP) provides initial training and continuing education programs for aspiring wedding planners throughout the year. They offer the Certified Wedding Planner (CWP) credential, which is one of the most common and well-regarded certifications in the industry. This certification does not require more than two years of work experience, and it needs to be renewed every five years.

The Wedding Planning Institute also offers a similar certification called the Certified Wedding and Event Planner (CWP). This certification is also highly regarded and can help you secure a position as an event planner, which typically has a higher salary than a wedding planner.

Lovegevity's Wedding Planning Institute provides a comprehensive educational roadmap with their Certified Wedding & Event Planning (CWEP) program. This program includes hands-on internships, instructor-led and self-study options, and one-on-one video or phone conferences with instructors. They also offer a wide range of resources and templates to help you succeed in the wedding planning industry.

In addition to these certifications, Salt Lake Community College offers an online Certified Wedding Planner course, which can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to become a successful wedding planner in Utah.

Lucrative business opportunities in Utah

Utah is a great place to start a wedding planning business. The state's scenic beauty and year-round outdoor activities provide a perfect backdrop for weddings, attracting both natives and tourists. Creativity and flexibility are key to success in this competitive industry. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Education and Training

While Utah does not have specific requirements for becoming a wedding planner, combining interpersonal skills with formal education will give you a strong foundation. Consider taking courses or obtaining a degree in a relevant field, such as hospitality management or event planning. Southern Utah University, the University of Utah, Utah Valley University, and Utah State University all offer programs that can provide you with valuable skills and knowledge for wedding planning.

Professional Certifications

Obtaining professional certifications will increase your credibility and improve your career prospects. The Event Industry Council offers the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified Meeting Planner certifications, which require industry experience and a rigorous exam. The Meeting Professional International (MPI) also offers the Certificate in Meeting Management.

Building a Network

Affiliating yourself with top event planning organizations, such as hotels, resorts, and restaurants in major cities like Layton, Park City, and Provo, can be advantageous. Building relationships with venues and vendors will be crucial to your success as a wedding planner.

Understanding the Market

Researching and understanding the wedding planning market in Utah is essential. Currently, there are about 1,350 event planners in the state, with an average annual salary of $46,410. Top event planners can earn up to $71,450 per year, while newcomers can expect an average of $25,050.

Marketing Your Business

To stand out in the competitive wedding planning market, consider specializing in destination weddings or offering unique services that cater to specific client needs, such as environmentally conscious weddings. Utilize online platforms and build a strong digital presence to reach a wider audience and showcase your expertise.

By combining your creative talents with business acumen and a strong network, you can successfully establish a lucrative wedding planning business in Utah.

Training opportunities in Utah

Utah has no formal requirements for working as a wedding planner, but a combination of interpersonal skills and formal education will help you succeed in this career.

Southern Utah University in Cedar City offers a degree in hotel, resort, and hospitality management. You can choose between a Bachelor of Arts, which requires a foreign language, or a Bachelor of Science.

The University of Utah in Salt Lake City offers a bachelor's degree in recreation and tourism, with a certificate in hospitality operations offered through the American Hotel and Lodging Association.

Utah Valley University in Orem offers associate and bachelor's degrees in hospitality management through a combination of online and on-campus studies.

Utah State University in Logan does not offer a degree programme in hospitality management or event planning, but students can minor in event planning.

Salt Lake Community College offers an online Certified Wedding Planner course.

Professional certifications will increase your chances of getting a job or owning a wedding planning business. The Event Industry Council offers the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) certification to recognise excellence for event planners. Before you're certified, you must have at least three years of experience and pass an exam. The Council also awards the Certified Meeting Planner certification, which requires the same qualifications.

Frequently asked questions