Considering a career change to become an event planner? It’s an exciting field that allows you to use your creativity to bring events and celebrations to life. From weddings and birthdays to conferences and fundraisers, event planners handle all the details that go into making special occasions memorable. Read on to learn more about what it takes to get started in this fun and fast-paced profession.
Get the Proper Education and Training
While you don’t necessarily need a specialised degree to become an event planner, taking classes and getting formal training can be extremely helpful. Many colleges and universities now offer event planning certificates or associate’s degrees. These programmes teach you about key topics like budgeting, contract negotiation, risk management, vendor relations, marketing, and more. Hands-on courses can give you the opportunity to plan mock events and get comfortable with all the moving parts.
Build Up Industry Experience
In addition to education, actual event planning experience is hugely valuable. Start by seeking out internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level jobs with an established event planning company. You’ll learn directly from seasoned professionals. Assist with tasks like contacting vendors, creating layouts, and decorating venues. Ask lots of questions and become familiar with the process.
You can also volunteer to help organise events for local nonprofits like charity fundraisers, educational conferences or community festivals. These are great opportunities to practice your skills. Maintain relationships with industry contacts you make along the way.
Develop Key Skills
Event planners wear many hats. Organisation, multitasking, problem-solving, budgeting, negotiation, and time management are all critical abilities. You should be comfortable communicating and collaborating with clients as well as vendors and staff. Having an eye for design is helpful for things like decor and layouts. Comfort with technology and software like Microsoft Excel is also useful. Identify your weak areas and work to improve them. Stay adaptable, as you never know what challenges may pop up on event day.
Craft Your Professional Image
Your reputation and brand image will be key to getting clients in the event planning world. Network with other professionals in your area. Create a logo, website, business cards, and marketing materials that capture your style. Use social media to showcase your work and abilities. You want to look polished, knowledgeable and prepared to take on any type of event.
Consider Your Niche
Most event planners develop a niche, as it’s impossible to plan every type of occasion well. You may focus on weddings, corporate conferences, celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries, non-profit fundraisers, educational seminars, and more. Choose an area you feel passionate about and gain expertise there.
For example, if you want to handle weddings, build up relationships with local wedding vendors like florists, caterers, photographers, and bands. Have trusted contacts on hand that you can easily bring into your couples’ big day, such as Corky and Prince, a luxury wedding florist. Become known for your attention to detail and familiarity with the latest wedding trends and traditions.
Putting in the work upfront to get trained, gain experience, and build your professional reputation is the key to developing a rewarding career in event planning. With creativity and organisation, you’ll be able to bring people together for memorable celebrations.