An event planner is a person who coordinates events, including (but not limited to) weddings, graduations, conferences, benefits, and more. It’s the planner’s job to make sure the event runs smoothly and that all preparation is completed in every aspect, from pre-planning to completion. A planner works closely with her clients to determine times and locations, as well as gather bids from local meeting places and service providers. She also handles all lodging and transportation that may be needed.
Does this fast-paced business idea sound fun and exciting to you? If so, you should consider starting your own event planning business idea using this easy to follow guide.
Education and Starting Your Career
Although getting certified to become an event planner isn’t necessary to start your career, it is helpful. It lends credibility to your name, but you can start this business without a degree or certification if you’ve got the skills necessary to plan.
Many event planners begin working at home. This keeps overhead down while maximizing productivity. You’ll want an office you can dedicate just to this business, as that will help you stay organized. Register your business with your state, and apply for any licenses that may be required on a local, state, and federal level.
Hiring Employees
You’re going to need help. Event planning is a group effort, and most event planners start out with an assistant, but go on to hire numerous other employees to handle every aspect of an event. If the thought of hiring employees sounds expensive, fear not. By hiring employees, you make yourself eligible for numerous tax credits, most of which can be learned about by understanding these ADP business tax credits and incentives.
Market Your Business
Initial marketing budgets are necessary to get your name out there, so set money aside for this important step. Get yourself some business cards, brochures, and other marketing materials. These will be handed over to anyone you think could benefit from the services you provide.
It’s also helpful to purchase ads in publications that are relevant to the types of events you throw, such as bridal magazines, travel magazines, and business magazines. Don’t forget online marketing resources as well, such as designing and promoting your own website and advertising on Facebook. This is an investment that will pay off in the long run.
Build a Trusted Network
Reach out to local businesses, and ask them to forge long-term partnerships with you. These businesses could include travel providers, hotel chains, and event centers. If you use these businesses for your events, you may receive special discounts, which can maximize your profits and lower your expenses.
Events are a great place to network and find new clients. Find events that are within your niche, such as bridal shows or a travel conference. About.com has a list of trade shows you can attend, all of which ensure professional development.
Offer your services for free or at a reduced rate to build new relationships with influencers in your chosen field, such as a salesperson or CEO of a business to business company. Let him know you’re building your company, and could use his testimony and in exchange for that you’re willing to throw in some free services or offer the entire event at a reduced rate. Then, be sure to leave some business cards with him, so he can tell his friends what a great event you put together.
Succeeding in your own business will provide you with a high sense of self-worth and success. It’s a very rewarding thing to do. Event planning will introduce you to all sorts of people and has the potential to grow into a very profitable business. It takes careful planning and it can be stressful, but it’s a great business to get into.