Starting an Event Planning Business

I love entertaining so I frequently host gatherings which include the casual dinner party and BBQs to the more formal anniversary parties. Getting my family and friends together for gourmet food, good conversation and laughter brings a warm feeling of satisfaction to my heart. From personal experience I know how planning even the smallest of gatherings can be very time consuming. There is the planning of dates and times, getting the guest list together, shopping for food and decorations, checking out venues, hiring entertainment, etc. Think about starting an event planning business so that you can offer your clients the benefits of hosting a great event with the convenience of one stop shopping for all of their event planning needs.

Skills you need with you start an event planning business

Knowing how to throw a great party is a valuable skill when starting an event planning business. It will help you to have an idea of what your customers will be looking for. It will also help you to offer ideas and tips to clients looking for valuable resources for their event. Having an eye for detail and a fun personality are a great asset to any event planning business. Good time management and organizational skills are helpful as well. Being on time, keeping invoices, orders, client information, vendor lists, venue information and any inventory you choose to carry such as party supplies organized is a must for your business to succeed.

How do you get started?

Starting an event planning business takes a little time and research. The best way to get started is to offer to plan events for your family and friends. This will give you experience in planning a variety of events as well as build up your portfolio for future clients to see your work.

Education

Read books, take classes and attend workshops to help you to grow in your field. Join the International Special Events Society (ISES), to stay on top of events and happenings within the event planning industry.

Target market

As an event planner there are many types of events that you can plan including private parties, fundraising events, corporate events, wedding, business launch parties and more. Start off by putting real thought into what type of events you would be best at planning. Even though you may be good at planning all types of events to be successful it is always best to choose one area of expertise and add to that if you choose to as your business grows.

A good business and marketing plan

Sitting down and writing out your business and marketing plan even if it is only on a single sheet of paper to start with will really help you to start your event planning business off on the right foot. Who will your clients be? What services will you offer? What will you charge for services rendered? How will you market? Are some of the questions to keep in mind when starting your business.

A quality vendor list

A major key to event planning success is to develop a rolodex of reliable vendors to work with, like caterers, musicians, photographers, videographers, party suppliers, venues, etc.

Starting an event planning business is the perfect choice for someone who is detail oriented and enjoys working with others. Research your industry well and learn how to market yourself to prove your credibility. Be patient and your hard work will eventually pay off.