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How to Start an Event Planning Service Want to be an event planner but not sure how to start your own event planning service? Discover how to start this business in our step-by-step guide.

Some people get a lot of personal and professional joy out of making big events and special days even better for their attendees. If you have the hosting itch, and if you love to tackle complex problems and make big days go smoothly, you might have a future as a professional event planner.

But whether you choose to work alone or with a small team, starting an event planning service is no small task. Today, let's break down how to start an event planning service step-by-step.

What are the basics of event planning?

Event planning is the art (and sometimes science) of event ideation, planning, coordination and operation. When a big, important event needs to go smoothly, it's time to call an event planning service or coordinator.

Event planners are key service providers who can ensure event production and execution happens smoothly. They perform these duties for trade shows, senior events, nonprofit galas and much more.

Related: Find Your Event-Planning Niche

Event planning is most often used for purposes like:

  • Big educational meetings, like graduations or conferences.
  • Major promotions, like marketing events, product launches and fashion shows.
  • Corporate events, like after-work cocktail hours, galas, etc.
  • Celebrations and social events like parades, weddings, birthdays, reunions, etc.

Event planning is highly important to make sure the above and other major events go off without a hitch, especially so that the most important guests can enjoy themselves.

The primary duties of full-time or part-time, on-site event planner jobs include:

  • Doing research prior to the big event.
  • Event design and team-building for project management.
  • Finding the appropriate site for the event.
  • Creating event budgets and running fundraisers if necessary.
  • Arranging for decor, entertainment and food for the event.
  • Sending invitations to potential attendees.
  • Planning transportation for attendees to and from the event.
  • Arranging any other necessary accommodations, like seating.
  • Coordinating activities for event personnel, like caterers or entertainers.
  • Supervising activities at the event site.

The events industry, both for wedding planning and other events, requires good communication skills. Additionally, obtaining a bachelor's degree in public relations or related areas can be helpful but is not absolutely required. Let's look closer at this job type and business.

Why do people hire event planning services?

People primarily hire event planning services for two reasons:

  • So that event-goers and guests of honor can enjoy themselves without focusing on the event.
  • So that the event in question goes smoothly.

Imagine a typical example of a wedding. Many engaged couples hire event planners or event planning services to coordinate, organize and carry out their wedding plans. In this way, the couples can enjoy their special days and focus on getting married rather than worrying about things like catering, parking and kicking out rowdy guests. Instead, the wedding planner takes care of that stuff.

Furthermore, some events are so complex – particularly those with hundreds of guests or more – that it's almost impossible to properly plan and organize them without the help of a specialist. Knowledgeable, experienced event planners know how to organize groups of people, how much food to provide and other details that can make or break an important event.

Related: The Price Is Right: Turning a Profit in the Event Planning Business

Who should become an event planner?

You might consider becoming an event planner if you love hosting parties and the thrill of organizing a complex event and running it without an issue. Planners often have to handle many moving parts at once. Many event planners have histories as managers or coordinators in other industries. You should become an event planner or start your own event planning service if you feel that you would enjoy this kind of work.

It's also worth noting that event planning often requires you to work on weekends or holidays (since these are the days when people have free time to schedule and hold events), as well as handle chaotic, sometimes confusing work and competing agendas. You should also consider acquiring certification for your event planning service, as it can help you acquire relevant professional skills and attract more job opportunities . Meeting Professionals International (MPI) is an association that offers a list of degrees and certificates from colleges and universities. The right degree or certification can lead to more job opportunities and even pave the way to a higher salary.

Alternatively, try to become a CSEP or Certified Special Events Professional or CMP or Certified Meeting Planner. Both of these are given out by the MPI or the ISES (International Special Events Society), which also highlight your skills and designate you as an expert event coordinator.

Now that we've covered the basics, let's get into the steps you need to take to start an event planning service:

Step 1: Make your company

Your first step involves making your company and filing the right paperwork. You should first draw up a business plan, which will include details like:

  • The business's name.
  • The business's tax structure (like a sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.).
  • How you'll make a profit.

Related: Check out these business plan templates to get started.

You'll also want to get an EIN, or employer identification number. This will allow you to hire employees for your event planning service if you desire later down the road.

How to Start an Event Planning Service

Step 2: Choose your target market

Next, do market research and pick the target market you want to work for. For instance, if you want to primarily work with weddings, you need to research that target market to know how much to charge for your services, what's involved and what you need to be experienced in.

By doing some research ahead of time, you won't find running your first events to be too overwhelming. You'll also know how much to advertise your event planning service to be competitive relative to other services in the area.

Step 3: Consider startup costs

When you start an event planning business, you'll have to consider startup costs. Working from home or primarily by yourself will keep costs low as opposed to hiring employees (who will require salaries).

However, if you want to expand your event planning business, you'll eventually need extra equipment, business premises like an office or warehouse and more. All of these things can add up, impacting the kind of business you begin.

Note that you can always scale your business after acquiring steady work. For instance, you can start off as a one-man event planning service that only provides services to small events you can tackle by yourself. After you save up some money from some successful jobs, you can hire a few more employees and rent out a warehouse for your equipment, like cameras, chairs and more.

Step 4: Understand the work involved and hire employees (optional)

For your event planning service to be successful , you need to fully grasp the nature of the work involved and understand whether you should hire employees.

Planning and executing an excellent event generally involves:

  • Designing the event, which means sketching out the feel or look of the event in question. Some clients will have very specific ideas you'll need to incorporate into the design.
  • Putting together a proposal for your clients so they can improve your plans.
  • Organizing the event, which involves almost everything else, like renting the site for the event, hiring vendors, hiring entertainers, organizing caterers and much more.

There's a ton of work that goes into planning even the smallest event. Fortunately, as you acquire experience, you'll be more adept at anticipating and completing this work.

Related: The Event Planning Recipe for Success

Generally, the larger the events you want to manage and coordinate, the more employees you need to hire. At a certain point, you can't be everywhere at once! Consider hiring employees when you have the cash to do so; this will allow you to plan events for larger groups of people and make more of a profit.

Step 5: Settle on a price structure and fee basis

How you price your event planning business will impact how often you get requests. You can determine your pricing structure and fee basis by things like:

  • The market segment you serve: For instance, social events usually have different fee structures than corporate events.
  • Your geographic location: If you have a higher cost of living, you are justified in charging your clients more to plan their events.
  • Your experience and reputation: As your business gets a reputation for success, you'll be able to charge a higher premium for your services.

Step 6: Start marketing your event planning service

Once you have all of your ducks in a row and you know how to charge your clients, you can start marketing your event planning service. Do this online through Google PPC (pay-per-click) ads, social media marketing and other efforts. Don't hesitate to use in-person marketing materials, like posters or TV ads, as well.

Related: 8 Savvy Ways to Promote Your Event Planning Business

As you can see, starting an event planning service is a matter of preparation and deep consideration. If you plan everything properly, your event planning service will launch smoothly, and you'll get your first batch of clients in no time.

Check out Entrepreneur's other guides and resources today!

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How to Start an Event Planning Business in (2024): Step-by-Step Guide

Plan Template thumb

Free How to Write an Event Planning Business Plan + Free Template Template

how to start an event planning business

The joy of making special days and big events even more special for the attendees seems exciting right? This is what event planners exactly do.

Whether it’s birthday celebrations, weddings, anniversaries, or corporate galas, the demand for expert event planners is soaring.

Starting an event planning business can be a great move because initially it needs a small investment, and you can make good money out of it.

It is a profitable venture but if are you confused about how to start an event planning business , then let us understand it through this guide.

Get to know the basics of event planning

Before you start getting into the process of starting an event planning business, you should know the basics of event planning, like what would be your responsibilities, what kind of events are there, etc.

So let’s get started:

Event Planning is most often used for purposes like

  • Social Events: Weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, etc
  • Corporate Events: Seminars, workshops,  conferences, product launches, award ceremonies, gala dinners, etc.
  • Cultural and Art Events: Art cultural celebrations, exhibitions, music festivals, etc

Key responsibilities of an Event Planner include

  • First of all, consult with your client properly before the event to understand their needs, objectives, and preferences.
  • You need to build a team as per the event type, whether it is a corporate or social event.
  • Prepare a budget to ensure that the event’s overall costs stay within the financial constraints of the customer.
  • Choose a venue that aligns with the event’s size, and theme.
  • Oversee the various vendors including florists, caterers, and photographers ensuring that they are all synchronized with the timeline.

After having a glimpse of the basics of event planning business, let’s see what is required next to start your business journey.

Quick Steps to Start an Event Planning Business

  • Conduct Industry and Market Research
  • Identify Your Event Planning Niche
  • Prepare an Event Planning Business Plan
  • Consider Startup and Operations Costs
  • Paperwork and Legal Registration
  • Figure Out Pricing Strategy
  • Get Licenses, Permits, and Insurance
  • Build a Core Team
  • Marketing to Spread the Word

1. Conduct Industry and Market Research

All businesses have competition – that’s what keeps the market in balance.So it is necessary to conduct thorough research of the market to identify your competitors and the current trends.

Moreover, it also helps you understand your target customers, identify market needs, develop marketing strategies, and maintain a competitive edge.

At the primary stage of your research, you may conduct surveys to learn more about your potential clients and their problems.

Now gather information for the secondary research from online resources and industry reports. Compiling and analyzing this data with your primary research will help you highlight the areas that need attention.

Besides identifying your target market, market research is instrumental in strategic planning for the future of your business. It also helps you discover effective growth strategies by setting the targets for your business and making you aware of your competitors.

2. Identify Your Event Planning Niche

Are you aware that knowing a “niche” is a must in the Event Planning Company? A niche is a segment of the market that an event planner focuses on serving.

Identifying your niche involves determining a specific area or target audience within the broader event industry where you can focus and distinguish your services. This allows you to delve into a specific client base and build a reputation for expertise in that particular niche.

Let’s have a look at a few of the common niches and event types:

Social Events

  • Wedding planning
  • Baby Showers
  • Anniversaries
  • Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties
  • Birthday Parties

Corporate Events

  • Award ceremonies
  • Conferences
  • Corporate Meetings
  • Grand Openings
  • Product or Service Launch Party

So you can develop various strategies for your venture after deciding upon any of the following above-mentioned niches as per the demand in the events industry.

3. Prepare an Event Planning Business Plan

Once you know your niche, it’s time to put together your business plan, which is an essential step of any business. A well-structured event planning business plan will help you build a roadmap for your business, by setting out where you want your business to go and how you intend to go there.

This business document will include details about your business, its history, service offerings, management, financial health, and more.

A business plan becomes particularly crucial when one seeks financial support from banks or other institutions. It provides a transparent overview of your plans to attain financial and operational objectives, offering reassurance to funders about the feasibility of loan repayment.

Although, many consider it just a way to peak investors’ interest, a solid business plan can change the entire course of your small business.

Besides these, it also provides a structure for your company’s daily operations, helps you understand the market trend, provides an exit strategy, and also helps to attract key employees.

Not very good at writing? Need help with your plan?

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how do i start my own event planning business

4. Consider Startup and Operations Costs

The next foremost step is determining your financing requirements. You must have an in-depth understanding of your startup and operational costs.

You can estimate your startup costs by listing down the essential startup supplies, insurance costs, licensing requirements, office space, and associated expenses.

The operational costs include venue costs, decoration costs, employee salary, marketing, advertising costs, etc.

5. Paperwork and Legal Registration

Setting up the paperwork and legal registration for your event planning company is an important step to ensure that you are committed to legal norms.

First things first – before you start your event planning business finalize the legal structure and do business as (DBA) name of your business.

Brainstorm different names and pick something that reflects your business idea.

You can also opt for the DBA (Doing Business As) name. It allows the business to operate under another name other than the formal business name.

Register your Business Name

Once you have a name decided, it’s time to register your business entity with the state and local government. This will ensure that your business name is yours and you can do the business using that name.

Register your Business Structure

A business structure describes how a company is legally organized. This is an essential part.

You can choose from different business structures like operating as a sole proprietor (if you’ll be running the company on your own), a partnership, as well as other entities that provide limited liability (which ensures you won’t be held responsible for the company’s debts or other actions).

Get an EIN: Federal Tax ID Number

The process for this can vary, so you can reach out to the office of your state’s Secretary for specific guidance. Moreover, obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS Internal Revenue System is essential.

Once you have your EIN, you can open a business bank account, apply for a loan, and separate your personal and business finances.

6. Figure Out Pricing Strategy

The pricing structure depends on the market segment you serve, your potential customers, geographic location, expertise, and most importantly your competitor will help you decide your fees.

How you price your event planning services will impact how often you get requests.

You can determine your pricing structure as follows:

Hourly Rate: Initially, some event planners might charge around $25 per hour, while experienced planners can command rates exceeding $100 per hour. Corporate events tend to bring in rates about 30% higher than social events.

Flat Fee: This is a common approach where you charge a fixed price for your event planning services, often including a percentage of the total fees from vendors.

Percentage of Total Event Budget: Some planners prefer charging a percentage of the overall event budget, which could range from 15% to 20%.

Vendor Commission : A few planners choose to decrease their charges or may charge nothing for their services instead they prefer to make their income solely from commissions received from vendors they work with.

7. Get Licenses, Permits, and Insurance

Licensing and legal requirements are important in starting and running your own event planning business.

Common licenses you need to run this business are:

  • Business License
  • Special Event Permit
  • Liquor license
  • Fire/fireworks permit
  • Health and Safety Permit
  • Seller’s Permit

Insurance: While not a permit or license, having general liability insurance, and possibly professional liability insurance, is highly recommended to protect your business from potential liabilities.

8. Build a Core Team

Hiring employees is a crucial step. The team you set up will be the business’s backbone, helping you effectively manage and execute events.

Here are key roles you need to consider when building your core team:

  • Event Coordinator
  • Marketing and Communication Specialist
  • Sales Representative
  • Logistics Coordinator
  • Administrative Support

You can hire event planners from Zippia, Upwork, Workstream, and also through LinkedIn.

9. Marketing to Spread the Word

You need to build effective marketing strategies to spread the word about your business to attract clients and establish your brand in the competitive world of events. You also need to set some marketing budget.

Here are some key areas to consider:

Target Audience

Who are you trying to reach and cover? Understand their interests, objectives, and event planning needs.

Developing a Strong Brand Identity

First, see what makes your service stand out. Developing a strong USP(Unique Selling Proposition) will help you grow your business by making it recognizable in a competitive market.

Build a professional website

Create a website that is visually appealing, informative, user-friendly, and easy to navigate.

Content Marketing

Be active on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest, sharing visually appealing content and engaging with your audience.

Showcase your successful events and satisfied clients to demonstrate your capabilities. Post the reviews of your customers on social media accounts.

Now you might be pretty much clear about how to kick-start an Event Planning Business.

To launch successfully, it’s essential to have a deep understanding of your target market, a solid business plan, and a clear grasp of the legal structure and financial aspects of running the business.

You’ve got everything now! What are you waiting for? Let’s start your journey as an event planner.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

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Frequently Asked Questions

What do you need to start an event planning business.

To start an event planning business, you’ll need several key components:

  • Business Plan
  • Market Research
  • Legal Setup
  • Financial Management
  • Branding and Marketing

Do you need a degree to start an event planning business?

Technically speaking, you don’t need an event planning degree to become a professional event planner. However, there are certain qualities, skills, and certificates to help you attract clients when you start the event planning industry.

A degree in a field related to events planning, design, and management may give you an edge. All other skills can be developed over time.

How can I find clients as a new event planner?

You can get your customers through:

  • Building an online presence
  • Collaborations with known faces
  • Referral Programs
  • Advertisement

Should I register my business as an LLC, sole proprietorship, or corporation?

Each structure has pros and cons, so consult with a legal or financial           advisor for the best fit:

  • Sole proprietorship: Easiest to set up, but you have unlimited personal liability.
  • LLC: Offers some liability protection and is relatively simple to manage.
  • Corporation: More complex setup, but provides greater liability protection and tax benefits.

What skills are required to be an event planner?

To become a successful event planner, you may not need formal education, but you do have to master these skills:

  • Communication Skills
  • Networking skills
  • Adaptability
  • Negotiation Skills
  • Budget Management
  • Level-headed and calm under pressure
  • Attentive to details
  • Humble and Responsive to Clients’ Needs

About the Author

how do i start my own event planning business

Shyam Dua is a seasoned tax professional with 40+ years of experience & a mentor at SCORE. He stands out due to his exceptional business planning skills. With a keen eye for detail and a strong financial acumen, Shyam crafts compelling business plans that pave the way to success. A CPA with a philanthropic heart, Shyam's strategic expertise, and dedication make him an invaluable asset in shaping thriving business ventures. Read more

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How to start an event planning business

If you’re looking to snag one of the 116,700+ (on average) jobs available to meeting, convention, and event managers out there, here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Step 1: Determine if it’s a good fit.

Like most jobs, your skill set and personality will largely determine your success in this field. And while you don’t need to check off all the qualities on this list, here are some things to consider before you start an event management business :

  • You can keep the big picture in mind while still taking care of all the little details.
  • Whether it’s Sunday brunch or the company holiday party, you’re everyone’s go-to person for all group events.
  • Working within a budget and strict timeline makes you feel creatively stimulated, not stunted.

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Step 2: Research certifications.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that demand for event managers will grow an additional 11% by the time we reach 2026. With such a positive industry outlook, it’s good to find new ways to stand out amongst the competition as new event planners enter the market in coming years.

Certifications are fantastic ways to add credibility to your business , regardless of your experience level. Besides proving you’re dedicated to further your education in the field, these credentials show that respected institutions can vouch for your abilities (and your business).

Some of the top certifications event managers pursue include:

  • Certified Special Events Professional
  • Certified Event Planning Specialist
  • Certified Quality Event Planner

There are lots more options to choose from, but these serve as a great jumping off point. However, if you aren’t able to acquire one right now, you can still get your business off the ground without it.

It’s worth noting that beyond certifications, there are no strict college degree requirements (although it seems most event planners do have some sort of bachelor’s education under their belts when starting out).  

Step 3: Fill out an event management business plan.

Any cursory Google search for the phrase event management business plan will inevitably lead you to some free wedding and event planning business plan templates .

However, you’ll find that the one we’ve created (below) provides a not too much, not too little approach you won’t find in any other guides.

Each point has been carefully selected so that you can create the event management business plan of your dreams without getting overwhelmed or missing out on details you definitely need to include. As long as you check off the items we listed, you’ll have a solid business plan ready to go in no time.

Step 4: Handle all the necessary paperwork.

To start an event management business, you’ll need each of the following:

  • An event management business plan (use the free template we made below)
  • Approval for a tax business structure that suits your financial needs
  • General business liability insurance

These documents cover all the basics. But as you gain more experience, you might want to add on things like home-based insurance or upgrade to a new tax entity once you enter into the appropriate bracket.

We won’t get into these more advanced concepts for this beginner guide, but make sure to revisit these categories before you’re officially open for business.

Step 5: Figure out finances.

To be clear, you definitely can start an event management business with no money ! However, whether your funding is from your own bank account or someone else’s, small businesses in the events industry should consider starting out with these budget line items:

  • Office space and essentials. You can use the computer, printer, and supplies you already have, assuming you do have (or can at least borrow) those things now. But keep in mind: if you’d like to write off your in-home office space on your federal taxes, your room must be secluded and have its own door.
  • Advertising. At the very least make sure you have a small batch of business cards and a portfolio website ready to go. If you have some cash to spare, consider getting into paid social media ads or printed marketing materials like mailers.
  • Software. The good news is there are plenty of great free event management software programs available these days, so you might not even have to budget for this one!

And that’s basically it! Depending on your niche or preferences, it would be good to also use this startup costs guide created by the Small Business Association to see if there’s anything else specific to you that might be missing.

Step 6: Choose a team.

Vendors, chefs, marketing agencies, software providers, event staff, and personal or office assistants all make wonderful additions to your event management business.

You can start out on your own (which, according to small business statistics , most people do) or you can go through the process of finding, interviewing, and hiring employees.

Depending on the amount of new business you plan to take on, you may or may not need to ever hire someone to help you part-time. At the very least though, you should start compiling a list of people who fit into this network so you can collaborate, get referrals, and perhaps even sub-contract them in the future.

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What is your vision for an event planning business?

Once you’ve completed all of these steps, it’s time to review the big picture. As you figure out your plan, budget, and staffing options, your idea of what you want for your business might change. And that’s totally okay!

Learning how to be flexible is a skill all small business owners must learn. Just make sure you adjust now so you can carry your vision with you for future decision making.

Event planning journal

How to write a personal event planning business plan

1. create an executive summary.

  • Objectives. Write down your realistic and measurable business goals .
  • Mission. Check out these inspiring company mission statements for ideas.
  • Keys to Success. Also known as why you think your business will succeed and how you will make sure it does.

2. Make a company summary

  • Company Ownership. If it’s just you, consider doing a sole proprietorship .
  • Start-up Summary . Think of it like a company overview . Include your business’s back story, location, and anything else you’d basically put on your website’s About section.
  • Company Locations and Facilities. Include the address you’ll put on your taxes and any long term rentals like kitchen prep spaces or coworking offices.

3. Identify your products and services

  • Services. Event management services can really vary so use this section to outline what you do and what you don’t do.
  • Prices. The average yearly event planner’s salary comes out to about $50,000 so plan accordingly.
  • Competitive Comparison. Who are your immediate competitors? What do they have that you don’t? Record this research and look for imaginative ways to stand out. Be very honest with your assessment of how your business stacks up against them and what you should do to improve your chances of success.

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4. create a marketing analysis summary.

  • Marketing Segmentation. Targeting means finding what area, demographic, or behavioral patterns your high ROI prospects all have in common, just like you’d do for any customer-focused corporate event.
  • Target Market Segmentation Strategy. Now that you know who you audience it is, it’s time to research and define all the ways you plan to gain their business.

5. Do a strategy and implementation summary

  • Sales Strategy. Here are the two best advanced event business pricing strategies to choose from.
  • Sales Forecast. It’s a bit complicated, but figuring out how much money you think your business will make over the next six months to a year (or more) makes studying a sales forecasting guide well worth the effort.
  • Milestones . Whether your goal is the total number of sales or income from sales (or something else entirely), you’ll want to formally establish what milestones you’d like to hit by when. Just leave wiggle room for the unexpected and adjust expectations as you go.

6. Write a management summary

  • Organizational Structure. For event management teams, clearly defined roles are more important for teamwork than pretty much anything else.
  • Personnel Plan. Here are some things to know about hiring staff for an event specifically that will also apply to your company as a whole.

7. Create your financial plan

  • Important Assumptions. Business plan assumptions can be fairly complex. For now, just focus on listing your anticipated fixed and variable event planning expenses , marketing costs, and what taxes you’ll have to pay on your earned income.
  • Break-Even Analysis . How much did you invest? And how much will you need to earn (after taxes, equipment costs, etc. are subtracted) in order to equal your initial investment? Keep this number handy – it’ll help you decide whether or not to take on more projects, motivate you to upsell whenever possible, and give you a realistic for success.
  • Projected Profit and Loss. The IRS might want to see your profit and loss statements at some point, so make a point to regularly record your expenses and sales in one organized document.
  • Projected Cash Flow. This free (and very helpful) small business book says to calculate it one month at a time for more accurate figures.
  • Projected Balance Sheet. If you’ll be acting as your own bookkeeper, check out this balance sheet template to speed up the process.
  • Business Ratios. Even if you’re not a math person, you can definitely handle this last (but very important) event management business plan step. There are lots of business ratios to choose from, but if you want the quickstart version go with these 3 most important balance sheet ratios for professional services firms .

how do i start my own event planning business

Now you know how to start an event management business!

How do you become an event planner? You plan. Plan your business, plan your client’s events, and plan for a successful future.

There are lots of details involved but if you follow the ideas laid out in this guide, you’ll have yourself a healthy event management business plan along with some great strategies for reaching your goals!

19 Trends Shacking Up Events in 2019

For more on starting your own company , check out these tips for financing your event business , current event statistics worth considering, and event trends you should know for 2019.

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How to Start a Profitable Event Planning Business [11 Steps]

Nick

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 02, 2024

image of a event planning business

Business Steps:

1. perform market analysis., 2. draft a event planning business plan., 3. develop a event planning brand., 4. formalize your business registration., 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for event planning., 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for event planning services., 8. acquire event planning equipment and supplies., 9. obtain business insurance for event planning, if required., 10. begin marketing your event planning services., 11. expand your event planning business..

Before diving into the event planning industry, it is crucial to understand the market dynamics and identify potential opportunities and challenges. A thorough market analysis will lay the foundation for a successful business by highlighting the needs and preferences of your target clientele as well as the competitive landscape. Here's how you can go about it:

  • Research your target market: Understand who your potential clients are, what types of events they are looking for, and their willingness to pay for services.
  • Analyze competitors: Identify existing event planning businesses in your area, study their offerings, pricing, and market share to find gaps you can fill.
  • Identify trends: Stay up-to-date with the latest trends in the event planning industry, such as sustainable practices, technology use, and popular event themes.
  • Assess suppliers and vendors: Compile a list of potential suppliers and vendors you might work with, including venues, caterers, and decorators, and evaluate their quality and reliability.
  • Regulatory considerations: Understand the legal requirements and regulations that may impact your business, including permits, insurance, and health and safety standards.
  • Financial analysis: Project your potential earnings, start-up costs, and operating expenses to determine financial viability and create a budget.

image of a event planning business

Are event planning businesses profitable?

Yes, event planning businesses can be very profitable depending on the size, scope and type of events planned. Some event planners specialize in weddings, corporate events, or other special occasions. Depending on the market and the demand for services, an event planning business can be quite profitable.

Embarking on the journey of starting an event planning business requires a well-thought-out plan to guide your path to success. Crafting a comprehensive business plan is an essential step, as it will serve as a roadmap for your business's development and help you navigate through the complexities of the event industry. Here are key elements to include in your event planning business plan:

  • Executive Summary: Summarize your business concept, vision, and unique selling points.
  • Company Description: Outline your business structure, location, and the types of events you will specialize in.
  • Market Analysis: Research your target market, analyze competitors, and identify market trends and gaps.
  • Marketing Plan: Define your marketing strategies, including branding, pricing, promotions, and channels for customer acquisition.
  • Operational Plan: Describe your event planning process, from client consultation to execution, including vendor management and logistics.
  • Management Team: Present the expertise and roles of your management team and any staff members.
  • Financial Plan: Project your startup costs, forecasted income, expenses, and profitability over time.
  • Risk Management: Identify potential risks and outline strategies for mitigation.

How does a event planning business make money?

Event planning businesses make money by charging for their services, which can include the coordination of catering, renting of venues, and publicizing the event. Event planning businesses can cover a wide range of events, including corporate seminars, wedding receptions, and more. For example, a target audience for an event planning business could be small business owners looking to start up a spice business. The event planning business could offer to organize a seminar that educates potential spice entrepreneurs on how to launch their own successful businesses.

Building a brand for your event planning business is essential to stand out in a competitive market. Your brand should reflect your unique value proposition and resonate with your target audience. Consider these steps to create an impactful brand:

  • Identify your niche within event planning, such as weddings, corporate functions, or social events, to tailor your brand's voice and design.
  • Develop a memorable brand name and logo that captures the essence of your services and is easily recognizable.
  • Choose a color scheme and visual elements that align with your brand's personality, whether it's elegant, fun, professional, or avant-garde.
  • Create a consistent voice and message across all marketing materials and platforms to build trust and recognition.
  • Build a professional website and maintain active social media profiles to showcase your portfolio and engage with potential clients.
  • Network with industry professionals and leverage their testimonials to enhance your brand's credibility.
  • Offer exceptional customer service to create positive experiences that clients will associate with your brand and share with others.

How to come up with a name for your event planning business?

Brainstorming is the first step in coming up with a name for your event planning business. Consider what words or phrases resonate with the type of events you'll be planning and be creative. Think of the values that you want to communicate, such as creativity and reliability, and play around with different words that convey this message. You can also consider incorporating your own name if it's unique or memorable. Finally, take some time to research what names have already been registered in your area so you don't choose a name that's taken or too similar to another business. With some brainstorming and research you can come up with an original name for your event planning business!

image of ZenBusiness logo

Once you've laid the groundwork for your event planning business, the next crucial step is to formalize your business registration. This process involves several key actions that will establish your company as a legal entity and ensure you're compliant with all necessary regulations. Below are essential steps to guide you through this phase:

  • Choose a business structure (such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation) that best suits your needs and register it with your state's Secretary of State or equivalent agency.
  • Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes, especially if you plan on hiring employees.
  • Apply for any necessary business licenses or permits that your city, county, or state may require to legally operate an event planning business.
  • Register for state and local taxes to ensure you are set up to pay all applicable sales, use, and payroll taxes.
  • If your business name differs from your personal name, file for a Doing Business As (DBA) to legally operate under your chosen business name.
  • Explore business insurance options, such as general liability insurance, to protect your business from potential legal claims.

Resources to help get you started:

Access invaluable information through these key resources designed for event planning entrepreneurs, featuring insights on market trends, operational best practices, and strategic advice for business expansion:

  • Event Manager Blog by Skift : Offers comprehensive guides, articles, and reports on event planning trends and innovations. https://www.eventmanagerblog.com/
  • Special Events Magazine : Provides articles, news, and resources for event professionals focused on corporate events, festival planning, and special event management. https://specialevents.com/
  • MeetingsNet : A digital magazine and resource hub offering insights into meeting and event planning for various industries, with practical tips on technology, venues, and planning strategies. https://www.meetingsnet.com/
  • Eventbrite Blog : Features articles on event marketing, sales strategies, and case studies to guide event planners in organizing successful events. https://www.eventbrite.com/blog/
  • The International Live Events Association (ILEA) : Provides networking opportunities, education, and professional development for event planners worldwide. https://www.ileahub.com/
  • BizBash : Offers news, ideas, and resources for event and meeting planners, focusing on innovative event concepts and design. https://www.bizbash.com/

When launching your event planning business, securing the appropriate licenses and permits is crucial to operate legally and establish credibility with clients. Depending on your location and the nature of the events you're planning, the requirements may vary. Here's a guide to help you navigate this step:

  • Research local regulations: Check with your city or county government to understand which specific licenses and permits you need to run your event planning business.
  • Business License: Apply for a general business license, which is a fundamental requirement for operating any business legally within your jurisdiction.
  • Specialized Permits: Depending on the events you plan, you may need additional permits for food service, alcohol, live music, or public assembly.
  • Insurance: Obtain liability insurance to protect your business from potential claims and ensure you meet any insurance requirements for permits.
  • Health and Safety Certifications: If your events involve food handling or large crowds, health department certifications and safety permits may be necessary.
  • Keep Records: Maintain a organized file of all your licenses and permits, ensuring they're easily accessible and renewed as needed to stay compliant.

What licenses and permits are needed to run a event planning business?

Running an event planning business will require various licenses and permits, depending on the location and the type of services you offer. Common permits and licenses required include a business license, a sales tax permit or resale certificate, an alcohol license or permit if you are serving alcohol, a health permit if you are providing food at events, and any necessary permits from the fire marshal or local building department. You may also need certain professional licenses or certifications for services like catering.

Opening a business bank account is crucial for managing your event planning business finances effectively, and securing funding is essential for covering startup costs and maintaining cash flow. Follow these steps to set up your financial foundation:

  • Choose a bank that offers business banking services with benefits such as low fees, online banking, and good customer support. Consider also if they have experience with small businesses and event planning companies.
  • Prepare the necessary documents to open your account, which typically include your business license, EIN, incorporation papers (if applicable), and personal identification.
  • Once your account is open, keep personal and business expenses separate to simplify bookkeeping and tax preparation.
  • Explore funding options, including small business loans, lines of credit, business credit cards, investor funding, or crowdfunding platforms, to ensure you have the capital needed to grow your business.
  • Create a solid business plan to present to potential lenders or investors, highlighting your market analysis, services, marketing strategies, and financial projections.
  • Consider applying for business grants that may be available for event planners or entrepreneurs, which can provide funding without the need to repay.

Setting the right prices for your event planning services is crucial to attract clients while ensuring your business is profitable. Consider your costs, the value you deliver, and market rates to establish a competitive pricing strategy. Below are some key guidelines to help you set your pricing:

  • Cost-Based Pricing: Calculate your costs, including time, materials, overhead, and add a markup for your desired profit margin to determine your rates.
  • Value-Based Pricing: Price your services based on the value and experience you provide to the client, especially if you offer a unique service or have a specialized skill set.
  • Competitive Analysis: Research what competitors are charging for similar services to ensure your prices are in line with the market.
  • Pricing Structures: Consider offering various pricing structures such as hourly rates, flat fees, or packages to cater to different client needs and preferences.
  • Transparency: Be clear about what is included in your prices and any additional costs that may occur to build trust with clients.
  • Flexibility: Be willing to negotiate and adjust prices for larger or long-term projects, but always ensure your costs are covered and the price reflects your work's value.

What does it cost to start a event planning business?

Initiating a event planning business can involve substantial financial commitment, the scale of which is significantly influenced by factors such as geographical location, market dynamics, and operational expenses, among others. Nonetheless, our extensive research and hands-on experience have revealed an estimated starting cost of approximately $11200 for launching such an business. Please note, not all of these costs may be necessary to start up your event planning business.

Starting an event planning business requires a well-stocked arsenal of equipment and supplies. Having the right tools at your disposal ensures you can deliver a seamless experience for every event you plan. Here are some essentials you'll need to acquire:

  • Technology: Invest in a reliable laptop, event planning software, and a high-quality printer/scanner.
  • Communication Devices: Ensure you have smartphones, walkie-talkies, or other communication tools for staff coordination.
  • Furniture and Decor: Have a basic inventory of tables, chairs, linens, and thematic decorations for various events.
  • Tableware: Purchase or rent glassware, flatware, and dinnerware that can cater to different sizes and styles of events.
  • Lighting and Audio Equipment: Acquire or partner with suppliers for lighting systems, microphones, and speakers.
  • Transportation: Secure a van or truck for transporting equipment and supplies to event venues.
  • Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with first aid supplies, basic tools, sewing materials, and other emergency items.
  • Marketing Materials: Create promotional items like business cards, brochures, and banners to advertise your services.

List of software, tools and supplies needed to start a event planning business:

  • Computer & Software: $400-$1,000
  • Printer/Scanner: $50-150
  • Multimedia equipment (i.e. AV equipment): $50-$1,000
  • Event Planning Software: $15-$400/month
  • Office Supplies: $50-$200
  • Marketing Material (i.e. Business Cards): $50-$100
  • Website Hosting & Design: $50-$500/month
  • Photography Equipment: $200-$2,000
  • Mobile Phone/Data Plan: $30-$100/month
  • Insurance: Varies depending on the provider and risk profile of the business.

Business insurance is a critical component of establishing a secure foundation for your event planning enterprise. It not only protects your business from unforeseen liabilities but also provides peace of mind for you and your clients. Below are the key steps to obtaining the right business insurance:

  • Assess Your Risks: Evaluate the types of risks your event planning business may encounter. Common risks include accidents at events, property damage, or cancellations.
  • Research Insurance Types: Look into various insurance policies such as general liability insurance, professional liability insurance, and property insurance to understand what coverage they provide.
  • Consult with Insurance Professionals: Speak with insurance agents or brokers who specialize in business insurance. They can help tailor a policy to fit your specific needs.
  • Compare Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the most comprehensive coverage at a competitive rate.
  • Review Policy Details: Carefully read the terms and conditions of the insurance policy before purchasing to ensure that it meets your business's requirements.
  • Stay Compliant: Ensure that your insurance meets any legal requirements for event planning businesses in your area and keep it updated as your business grows and changes.

Now that your event planning business is ready to take off, it's essential to spread the word and attract clients. Marketing your services effectively is key to establishing your brand and driving business growth. Here are some strategies to consider:

  • Build a Professional Website: Create an engaging website that showcases your services, past events, testimonials, and contact information. Ensure it's optimized for search engines (SEO) to improve visibility.
  • Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to display your event portfolios, share client reviews, and engage with your target audience.
  • Networking: Attend industry meetups, join professional associations, and connect with vendors and potential clients to build relationships and referrals.
  • Content Marketing: Start a blog or a YouTube channel to share event planning tips and insights. This will position you as an expert and attract organic traffic to your website.
  • Advertise: Consider paid advertising on social media, Google, or local publications to target your ideal clients and boost your visibility quickly.
  • Partnerships: Collaborate with related businesses like florists, photographers, and caterers for mutual referrals and package deals.

Once your event planning business has gained some traction, it's time to think about expansion. Scaling up your business can open up new opportunities and revenue streams. Here are some strategies to consider:

  • Explore new markets by targeting different types of events or expanding into new geographical areas.
  • Invest in marketing efforts to increase visibility and attract a broader client base through social media campaigns, SEO, and networking.
  • Develop strategic partnerships with vendors, venues, and other event professionals to offer more comprehensive services.
  • Consider diversifying your services to include event design, corporate retreats, or conference planning to cater to a wider audience.
  • Utilize technology to streamline processes, such as event management software, to handle larger or more complex events efficiently.
  • Hire additional staff or freelance professionals to manage increased workload and bring in fresh ideas and expertise.
  • Seek feedback from clients and conduct market research to understand emerging trends and customer needs, ensuring your services remain relevant.
  • Offer training workshops or courses in event planning to establish your brand as an industry expert and create an additional revenue stream.

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How to start an event planning business in 8 steps

In 2020, the COVID-19 crisis changed everything for event planners. Whether the industry thinks of 2020 as a deviation or devastation strongly depends on how planning professionals adapt to uncertainty. One thing's for sure, virtual and hybrid meetings are here to stay, with the virtual market at $94 billion in 2020 and an expected compound annual growth rate of 23.7% between now and 2028 .

With all the change in the air, enterprising event entrepreneurs build social connections no matter the distance. So read on to avoid being amongst the 50% of all small businesses that fail in the first 5 years—and, more importantly, to give your new event planning venture the right start.

1) Evaluate your event planning skillset

It's common for event planning newbies to believe the business is all about showmanship, champagne, and shindigs. While that's the final product of your meticulous preparation, things behind the scenes are much less spectacular. There are a hundred to-dos that the planning professional must check off for every event to guarantee an enjoyable time for the client and guests.

Amongst other tasks, you may have to:

  • Create an event theme or design.
  • Find a venue.
  • Arrange entertainment.
  • Book vendors.
  • Send RSVPs and marketing info to attendees.
  • Balance the budget.
  • Coordinate with staff and subcontractors.
  • Decorate the space.
  • Oversee the caterers and bar staff.
  • Supervise the event.

If you want to start an event planning company, it might be smart to test out a job or three before making the dive. To begin, think about signing up as a personal assistant or apprentice for an experienced party planner. That way, you can evaluate whether the work is a suitable match before venturing out on your own.

Or you can look below for traits you already possess or ones you're willing to pick up as you go.

  • Attention to detail. Planning events requires diligence with finances, logistics, and time management.
  • Customer service. Event planners must contact their clients often. Thus, excellent customer service may help build the planner's reputation and improve client satisfaction.
  • Education or experience. Knowledge of best practices and prior event planning experience help. A party planner may have also attended college or earned a certification.
  • Interpersonal relationship skills. During a single event, an event planner will need to engage various people, many of whom will not be the planner's staff. Therefore, it's critical to form solid interpersonal connections and work effectively with a wide range of personalities. An event planner is the ultimate "people person."
  • Negotiation. Event planners negotiate with suppliers, entertainers, and contractors to reduce expenses while ensuring the client receives what they want.
  • Organization. Every event has many moving components that planning professionals must manage, and good organization is essential throughout the process to guarantee that nothing is missed or neglected.
  • Under-pressure performance. Even with the finest preparation, unforeseen problems will arise during an event. Event planners must create solutions to issues fast and always think on their festive feet.

Create your event planning business plan

"Whatever you do, do it well. Do it so well that when people see you do it, they will want to come back and see you do it again, and they will want to bring others and show them how well you do what you do."

Those words are from the man who has created more magical experiences than anyone else. Walt Disney's quote sounds like inviting people to your party, and his wisdom is perfect for those who make a living by bringing folks together. But before you can show the world how well you do what you do, consider the following questions when starting your business :

  • Executive Summary: How would you describe the business and your potential success?
  • Overview: What's the business's background, legal structure, and other key attributes?
  • Industry Analysis: What does market research reveal about the event planning industry in your area, including size, opportunity, and current trends?
  • Competitive Analysis: Who are your competitors, and what are their strengths and weaknesses?
  • Marketing: What is your marketing strategy to reach potential customers?
  • Management: What unique skills do you bring to the business?
  • Operations Plan: How will you manage the day-to-day tasks of the business?
  • Financials: What are your estimated revenues, expenses, and profits for each of your first 5 years?

2) Find your event planning niche

Finding a niche is as simple as picking a subset of the broader event planning industry to concentrate on or specialize in. A niche allows you to shine in an overcrowded marketplace and helps your target market track you down. Saying yes to the wrong client is saying no to Mr. or Mrs. Right. So, find the niche that matches your expertise and focus.

Take a look below for common niches and types of events.

Corporate Events

  • Award ceremonies
  • Charity and non-profit events (such as fundraising events)
  • Conferences
  • Corporate bonding retreats
  • Corporate meetings and seminars
  • Fashion shows
  • Golf events
  • Grand Openings
  • Experiential events (such as pop-ups and product or service launches)
  • Holiday parties
  • Networking events
  • Trade shows

Private/Social Events

  • Anniversaries
  • Baby showers
  • Bachelor/bachelorette parties
  • Bridal/wedding showers
  • Milestone birthday parties
  • Murder-mystery parties
  • Theme parties
  • Surprise parties
  • Wedding planning

3) Uncover your event planning unique selling proposition (USP)

Your unique selling proposition expresses what distinguishes you from every other event planner. According to top business thought leaders, in a world where clients are drowning in options and competition is fierce, 90% of a small pie is preferable to 10% of a large pie. So, for example, an enterprising event planner might create the USP, "Grand Opening Specialist for Luxury Retailers."

4) Pick your event planning business name

Are you ready for some fun? Business ideas move to the realm of reality as soon as a company has a name. Pick a name that blends your niche, USP, and expertise as an event planner. Perhaps it's as simple as Grand Openings Event Planning Company or as whimsical as Lux Influx Events. Try a business name generator , research competitors, or brainstorm with friends and family.

5) Figure out your financial plan

According to event planning tech company EventForte, profit margins in the industry can go as high as a healthy 40% . But don't rush off to the bank quite yet. To earn top dollar, you have to get those financial duckies in a row. So, if numbers are not your cup of event planning tea, you can always rely on a bookkeeper, software, or your favorite accountant. Then, when you're ready, you need to crunch your upfront costs and set up your pricing.

Calculate your startup costs

If you're starting as a side hustle, you'll need little more than a home office, computer, phone, website, some marketing materials, and event management software. It's common for people to get started for less than four or five thousand bucks. Furthermore, Entrepreneur.com estimates between $8,000 and $31,000, with the lower end for home-based business and the more expensive side for the type of business that launches with an office space and a few employees.

Structure your pricing strategy

How should you charge for your planning services? Your location, expertise, niche, and competition will help you set your fees. Below you'll find the five most prevalent ways of pricing event planning.

  • Hourly rate. A typical hourly fee for a novice event planner may be as low as $25 per hour and over $100 per hour for top event planners. Usually, a corporate event generates approximately 30% higher rates than social events.
  • Flat fee. A flat fee makes it straightforward for you and the client and is probably the most common arrangement. It is customary to charge a price for your services and a percentage of total vendor fees. A typical vendor commission runs from 10 to 15%. For instance, if a caterer's fee is $4,000 for an event, your cut for finding and arranging that specific vendor would be $400-$600.
  • Percentage of the event. Some event planners choose to charge a portion of the entire event budget, such as 15 to 20%.
  • Day-of coordination. At some point, a client will ask you for day-of coordination. This fee structure is most common for wedding planners, but it may also occur at other types of events.
  • Vendor commission. A small percentage of planners opt to either drastically reduce their fees or charge nothing for their services, earning all their money via commissions from the vendors they choose.

6) Get your paperwork in order

It's just a few hurdles to jump, and you're racing toward the finish line.

a) Register your business name with the state

Before you find your first clients, you need to register your business entity with state and local authorities. Also, you'll need to pick a type of business structure such as sole proprietorship, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation.

b) Apply for your EIN

Your employer identification number (EIN) identifies your business for taxes. Surprisingly, getting one is both free and easy. Get your EIN here .

c) Open a business bank account

Once you have your EIN, you can open a business checking account, apply for a loan, and separate your personal and business finances.

d) Obtain permits and licenses

This step separates the planners from the pretenders, but it's well worth the hustle to protect your reputation and potential clients. Your state will likely require several permits and licenses for your business and events. Standard ones include:

  • Building permit (tents). You need one for carnivals, political demonstrations, pop-up performing arts, races, and many other outdoor events that require tents.
  • Business license. Almost all businesses require licensing with the state to operate.
  • Event permit. The requirements vary by city, so contact the local government for relevant ordinances.
  • Fire/fireworks permit. You must check with your county if it's legal to display fireworks for your event.
  • Health permit. You can get this from your county's health department.
  • Liquor license , if applicable. You'll have to get this if you're planning to serve alcoholic beverages, and you can check the Alcoholic Beverage Control board for your state's specifics.
  • Noise permit. If your event's outside, you'll likely need one.
  • Seller's permit. You may need this as an event planner.
  • Temporary use/structure permit. There are two kinds of temporary use permits. One is for vacant land, and the other is for temporary space for parking, vendors, and loading areas.

e) Insure your event planning business

Some first-time event planners forget about insurance until it's too late. When you're dealing with the public, there's always the potential for the unexpected. Every event planner needs solid small business insurance —that's why it's essential to shop around to lock in the best deal. Check out this overview of important coverages you may need to insure your event planning business :

  • Workers' compensation : This coverage protects your employees if they get sick or injured while working in your event planning business. Every state requires workers' comp, and the consequences of skipping this coverage could cause the state to close your business. (You can get a quick estimate on what you'd pay for workers' comp with our 60-second workers' compensation calculator. )
  • General liability insurance : This policy protects your event planning business if you're sued for a property damage or injury claim. (Expensive lawsuits can quickly put an event planning service out of business.)
  • Property insurance : This policy protects your event planning equipment, such as your laptop or other devices you use in your business or home office from perils like fire or theft.
  • Business interruption : This coverage, also called business income insurance, provides financial support to your event planning business if you must close because of a covered reason.
  • Business Owner's Policy: This policy bundles general liability, business property, and business interruption insurance for your event planning business in one convenient package.

7) Hire your first employees

Many event planners launch as solopreneurs, but they soon look for a personal assistant. Or perhaps you want to hire a junior planner, salesperson, or office manager. Of course, you'll need workers' compensation insurance to operate legally whenever you add that first team member. After finishing your paperwork and legal requirements, head over to the Small Business Administration for a helpful checklist.

8) Spread the word about your new event planning business

Event planners are marketers at heart. After all, who's better at promotion than party planners? Now, you can parlay some of that creativity to advertise your new business. When building your marketing strategy to attract new clients, you could:

  • Build a website . Get the domain name for your business. A service with templates like Weebly or Squarespace can make this easy.
  • List your local business on Google and Yelp. Sign up for your Google My Business and Yelp profile.
  • Launch your social media profiles. Get your unique Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest, and other handles relevant to your niche.
  • Distribute brochures, flyers, and business cards. Call it old-fashioned, but it still works, and you might get your foot in the door with new clients.
  • Create word-of-mouth. Small Business owners know there's nothing better than word-of-mouth advertising, and the best way to get it is to please clients with a service they can rave about. Ask happy clients and customers for video testimonials that you can post on your website and social media accounts.
  • Partner with related businesses. Businesses such as caterers, florists, and photographers can be excellent referral sources.

Bonus: Check out these tips for running a successful event planning business

You're just about ready to start your own event planning business, so it's time to break out the bubbly. But before you pop the top, perhaps you're still thirsty for more best practices. Here are a few places with knowledge you can sip on:

  • Event Manager Blog : A great online library of articles, webinars, and videos covering every facet of the event planning industry.
  • Meeting Professional International (MPI): "Meeting Professionals International is the largest meeting and event industry association worldwide. The organization provides innovative and relevant education, networking opportunities, and business exchanges, and acts as a prominent voice for the promotion and growth of the industry."
  • #EventIcons Podcast : The hosts interview event-industry luminaries and up-and-comers, and the topics span from the everyday to the unexpected. The show has a friendly atmosphere and is a wealth of information for both beginners and seasoned experts. If you want to watch, #EventIcons is also accessible in recorded video format.

This article's been a lot to absorb. Maybe you're pondering just how to stay sane as an event planning entrepreneur .

If you're still crazy enough to start a party planning business, you can get insurance with Huckleberry in about the same time it takes to make your favorite caterer's samples disappear. (Getting a quote is free, easy, and 100% online.)

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The Ultimate Guide on How to Start Your Event Planning Business

Adam Rosenthal profile picture

Adam Rosenthal

There's no time like the present to start your event planning business. but before you get your first customer, you need to do some prep work..

Maybe it started in high school, when you planned out the snacks, the agenda, and everyone's roles for study sessions. Maybe it started in college, when you organized open mic nights at a local bar. All you know is you've got the itch: You want to start an event planning business.

But how do you go from just thinking about it to actually running a business?

There are six major steps that you need to take to start your business. We'll take you through each one so that by the time you're done reading this, you'll be better prepared to open up shop.

6 steps to starting your business

1. establish your expertise.

If you want people to trust you with their events, you need to demonstrate you know what you're doing.

Outside of an undergraduate degree in hospitality, you can enroll in various certification programs that will help bulk up your expertise and let your clients know they're in knowledgeable hands.

There are so many types of certifications, however, that it can be difficult to know the best to get. Below, we'll take a look at three general (i.e. not specialized) certifications you can obtain.

There are, of course, plenty of other certifications you can obtain and courses you can take that are much more event-type specific. You can also see if your local college or university offers any courses or certificates that might help you get started.

Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) Certification

The CMP is established by the Convention Industry Council, and the exam covers planning, site management, event design, marketing, and international standards.

The Council's website offers suggested reading and preparatory materials and the exam is offered every few months. For 2020, the announced test dates are in January, May, and August.

A CMP holder earns about $10,000 more annually than their uncertified counterparts, according to the Events Council.

If there's even the slightest chance you're considering working as a healthcare event professional, they also offer a CMP for that function specifically.

Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) Certification

This exam, administered four times a year, can be taken remotely. Similar to the CMP, it was established by a group of professionals (this time, the International Live Events Association).

With your certification you also get industry newsletters and a structured network that can help you build out your resources, get advice, and find mentors to help your business grow. However, there is an expertise requirement (three years in the event planning industry) before you can take it.

Certificate in Meeting Management (CMM)

Rather than simply taking an exam to test your knowledge, the CMM is an entire training program. It takes approximately 15 weeks and is more academic than practical in its approach.

The downside is that you'll have to travel to Indiana, so if you're not from the area it might take a little more budget than you have readily available to get this certification.

However, people with a CMM make about $30,000 per year more than those without it (and $20,000 per year more than those with the CMP certification).

2. Build an effective business plan

A business plan essentially establishes what your business goals and strategies will be moving forward.

Having a business plan doesn't just help you organize and road map the success of your business. It can also be a powerful tool to present to the outside world, such as potential investors who are curious about your strategy.

Your plan should include the following:

An executive summary—why is your company different from all other companies?

The company overview—this is what the company will look like.

An industry analysis—our niche of the event industry looks like.

Customer analysis—our customers will look like this.

A breakdown of your key competitors—this is what we're up against.

Your plans for marketing, operations, management, and finances—this is how we'll make our money.

An appendix of all your supporting documents—leases, contracts, trademarks, resumes, marketing materials, etc.

Score offers a handy template that can help you get started.

Within your company overview, you need to firmly establish what type of events you're planning to focus on. You don't need to stick with that event type forever, but it's important to start with a single effort. You can dedicate the full extent of your resources and expertise towards that goal, and then slowly build out from there.

Focusing on a single type of event will also give you a much clearer idea of who your customers will be. This can help in several sections of your business plan.

3. Secure startup capital

It only takes about $2,000 to $5,000 to get your business off the ground. Beyond that, there will be recurring costs that you need to factor in to your budget, since you won't be profitable right away.

There are a few ways you can secure that money:

Self-finance

Banks (i.e. lines of credit, small-business loans, or 401(k) business financing)

Friends and family

But what if you don't have any startup money?

If you can't self finance, don't worry—your business plan is here to help.

Whether you're incorporating it into a presentation to a bank, or using a crowdfunding platform such as AngelList , CrowdFunder, or Fundable , your business plan will demonstrate exactly where your investors' money is going, and how you plan to get it back to them.

4. Invest in the software you need to effectively run your business

There's an overwhelming number of software types you can use for your business. Some of them you'll find helpful right away, and some of them you'll find helpful further down the line.

Here's a list of core software types and why you might want to invest in them:

To help manage projects, tasks, and workflow: event management or project management software.

To help interact with your present and future customers: customer relationship management , lead management , email marketing , social media marketing , marketing automation software.

To help keep your information secure: email security , cloud security , network security , and/or SIEM software.

To keep your office running smoothly: budgeting , billing & invoicing , and collaboration software.

To improve attendee experience at your events: conference (be sure to get one with registration capabilities), venue management , and mobile event apps .

You may be able to find some free options (like in this article on free and open source event management software). Just make sure you check the user reviews of your potential purchase to make sure it won't be more trouble than it's worth. Capterra's software directory has user reviews for all of the products listed above.

5. Figure out what you need to legally operate your event planning business

Putting in the effort now to make sure that your event planning business is above board and protected means a lot less paperwork (and a lot less in terms of potential legal fees) later down the line.

The first big step is registering your business with state and federal governments. The IRS offers handy advice for exactly how to do that .

You'll also need to figure out which licenses and permits you need. Many of these will depend on the type of event planning you intend to do, but Brand Name USA has a good guide to get you started.

Finally, you have to make sure that you're covered in case of any accidents—to you, your business, or your employees. You'll need to secure a worker's comp policy, as well as a variety of different types of insurance.

6. Establish a marketing campaign and build out your network

For your business to truly succeed, you need clients and partners.

Marketing your business to clients

You know exactly who your target clients are, thanks to the research that went into your business plan. It's time to reach out to those potential clients. Use any channel you have at your disposal—email marketing campaigns, cold calls to businesses, or social media, for example.

Make sure that you focus on channels that are highly impactful for your target audience. You can do this by testing out to a wide group of channels and seeing which gets the most engagement from your network. You can also employ social media segmentation which can help streamline this process a bit.

For example, if you want to plan pop-up food experiences, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook are great channels. If you want to plan software showcases, LinkedIn and email marketing might be a better play.

Make the most impactful marketing strategy possible, and you'll grab those leads in no time.

Marketing your business to potential partners

You need to build out your network of vendors, venues, and other industry experts whose services you might require.

You've already established what type of event you want to focus your business on. Think of every facet of a possible event. Go through our guide on how to plan an event . Look at the list of vendors there, and find local vendors that cater to each of those categories. Whether it's catering or security or A/V equipment, you'll need to know who you can turn to for events.

Reach out to them and establish a connection so that when you have an event and need their services, you have an extant relationship you can work from.

Important reading before you start your event planning business

This guide should give you a strong understanding of what you need to do to start your event planning business.

As you go off to establish your expertise, make sure to read a few more articles to give you a fuller understanding of what you'll be facing on the road ahead.

How to Find a Venue for an Event: 6 Crucial Boxes to Check

Post-Event Engagement: How to Keep the Event Experience Alive

7 Event Budget Templates to Plan Your Finances

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About the author.

Adam Rosenthal profile picture

Adam Rosenthal is a Senior Specialist Analyst covering Vendor Marketing. He received his Masters from the University of Chicago and worked on several TV shows you might have heard of.

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The Event Planning Startup Kit: Everything You Need to Start an Event Planning Business

Starting an event planning business? Save yourself hours of research with this handy event planning startup kit.

The Event Planning Startup Kit: Everything You Need to Start an Event Planning Business

Are you ready to break out and start your own event planning business? Whether you've been in the industry for years or are just getting started, working in the event industry is exciting and dynamic.

The opportunities are plentiful. You can plan birthday parties, trade shows, fundraisers, weddings, and more. And when you work for yourself, you get to choose if you want to work part-time or full-time hours.

Getting started in event planning services isn't easy, though! Like most start-ups, it can feel daunting with all the information to sort through. There's a lot to consider, from event marketing to picking the right caterers and even choosing a business name. And it's easy to get lost in the mess of blogs and social media experts.

To help you weed through the overwhelming amount of information, we put together this event planning start-up kit for you. You'll want to bookmark this one and reference it often!

Getting Started As An Event Planner

Owning an event planning business is more than simply organizing Pinterest boards. There's work to do before you even consider taking on your first client and planning an event.

First, it helps to know why you want to be an event planner so that on days when motivation is low, or you're overwhelmed, you can refer to your why . And if you ever plan to take on a partner or an investor for your start-up, you'll need a business plan.

Find Your Niche

Many new small business owners jump in with all four limbs and say yes to every and any event to gain experience. But, before you take the plunge, the best thing you can do for your sanity and the success of your event planning business is to choose a niche .

Considering event management is listed as one of the ten most stressful jobs, it's best to play off your strengths. If you've got experience running corporate events, start there. If you've dreamed of being a wedding planner, go all in and become the go-to in wedding planning.

Choosing a niche will also make it easier for new clients to find you as you refine your marketing message.

how do i start my own event planning business

Get Clear On Your Vision And Mission

There are many reasons people choose to start their own business: greater flexibility, increased earning potential, creative independence — the list goes on. You'll have your reasons for choosing to start an event planning company, and those reasons will become part of your vision and mission statement. Classy Career Girl offers a 4-day DIY business and vision planning workshop.

Create A Business Plan

As any successful business owner will tell you, they started with a solid business plan. And event planning is no different. Not only will a business plan help you structure your business, but it will also force you to do the research needed to understand your target market. Settle into your cozy home office and get started with these resources.

The balance small business offers an excellent guide on how to write a business plan from start to finish.

The U.S Small Business Administration offers a similar guide and even some samples so you can see how others have done it before you.

Professional Certifications

You may have enough years of experience in the industry to offer you some credibility with clients. But, if you're new to the event management industry, a certification might give you the trust factor potential clients need to feel confident working with a start-up.

No matter what industry you're in, it's always beneficial to show you're invested in yourself and passionate about your career as an event planner.

CSEP: Certified Special Events Professional

If you're considering a career in live event planning, CSEP is a well-regarded certification in the industry. You'll need three years of experience before taking the exam, so this is a good one to bookmark for the future if you're just starting out.

CMP: Certified Meeting Professional

CMP has been around since 1984 and is a globally recognized certification. It aims to promote industry standards, practices, and ethics. It's important to note that if you're just getting started in your event planning career, you will need to get some experience under your belt before applying for this certification.

QC Event School

QC Event School is a self-study school that offers a variety of industry-recognized professional certification courses. You will receive mentorship from those currently in the industry and even guidance on starting your own business.

They offer courses in:

Event and wedding planning

Corporate event planning

Private event planning

Festivals and live events

Virtual event planning

Udemy: Wedding Planner MBA

Udemy is a popular online learning platform. They have a complete course for beginners in wedding planning . This course will take you from start to finish to begin your career as a professional wedding planner.

Learn Event Industry Lingo

You'll be subject to a whole new language as an event planner. Knowing what terms like 'bump out' and 'batten' mean will assist you when communicating with others in the industry.

Grap this glossary of terms and avoid an uncomfortable situation when you're in the middle of a high-pressure event or booking a vendor.

Find The Right Venue

Choosing the right venue can make or break your event. And depending on the type of event you're booking, you'll most likely need to book the venue months, even years, in advance.

Some things to consider when choosing a venue:

Location - if it's a local event, it should be central to most attendees.

Parking - is there ample parking or a valet?

Capacity - you want your guests to be comfortable and not cramped or feel like they're in an arena if it's a small gathering.

Contract flexibility - triple-check terms in case you need to break the contract.

Layout - understand how people, tables, and dancing will flow within the space.

Budget - don't spend your entire event budget on the venue because it's available and beautiful.

3 online resources to help choose your venue:

1 - https://www.iacconline.org/venues

2 - https://www.uniquevenues.com/

3 - https://www.peerspace.com/

Event Planner Checklist

No event planner wants to wake up at 4 am the morning of a big event and realize they forgot to order the chairs. That's a layer of stress you'll want to avoid. The best defense against forgetting important details is to keep an event planner checklist at your fingertips.

Things like remembering to book the caterer and checking in with the florists are details you can't afford to miss. We recommend creating a list for yourself and saving it inside a Glide App . This way, you'll have access to it from your phone, tablet, and desktop as you plan your event.

Event Planning Software

Every smart business owner knows there is plenty of software to help manage everything related to running a business. You'll find endless options to help track and manage start-up costs, collect valuable vendors, build a list of new clients, and even store this start-up kit.

The software options are endless, and you could spend hours — WEEKS — of your life researching and signing up for trials of every event planning software out there.

Save your precious time for better things, and check out these top picks to keep you moving and shaking in your event planning business.

Project Planning

Whether you're a list person or love the visualization of a Kanban board, there's a project management tool to help you stay organized and plan a successful event.

Glide is a business organizer app with a gorgeous interface that you can customize to fit your workflow. Create projects, project subtasks, due dates, and progress reports — book meetings with team members and coral team conversations with an in-app chat. Or use a pre-designed template when you're just getting started.

how do i start my own event planning business

HoneyBook is a robust all-in-one event planner software. It's simple to use and gives you the ability to manage the client side of your business. You can send invoices, take payments in real-time, and even send event planning questionnaires. It gives you the option to build brochure templates to market your brand and look professional.

If you've ever relied on scraps of paper or a notebook to track your tasks or jot down business ideas, you know it's unreliable. Asana is a project management tool where you can create actionable checklists, track event budgets, and even communicate with staff.

Attendee Registration

Every event needs an easy way for guests to register, RSVP, buy a ticket and get updates on the event.

There's a good chance you've used Eventbrite in the past to buy tickets to an event. Word of mouth is useful when starting your business but will only get you so far. Eventbrite can help you promote your event, sell tickets, create customized email campaigns and even track where ticket sales come from.

Inside RegFox you'll find a drag-and-drop template builder to customize your event registration page. Limit the number of tickets you can sell, and send branded confirmation emails and scannable QR codes for easy check-in.

Greenvelope

Are you planning a wedding or birthday party? Send customized invitations and track RSVPs with Greenvelope . It's easy to import guest lists, send auto-reminders, and email guests with any last-minute changes or updates.

Social Media Management

In the era of social media, you'll want to have a presence on the platforms that make the most sense for you and your business. Since it's easy to lose hours to the scroll to see what others are doing, it's imperative to enlist a tool that will help you market your business and still manage your time.

Hootsuite , is an all-in-one social media posting tool. Plan your posts without ever opening Instagram or Facebook. Use your valuable time on more critical business development, like planning out future partnerships.

If you're new to using social media to grow a business, Later is a social media scheduler with a short learning curve. The interface is clean and easy to use. You can plan out your visuals, collect media from within the app, and choose the auto-post or manual post feature. It's got a free plan, and the paid plans are affordable.

Customer Relation Management (CRM)

Your clients and vendors are your lifelines to a successful business. Keeping them organized from day one is the best way to avoid chaos in the future. Spreadsheets work but won't keep up as you grow.

And as a customer relationship management (CRM) tool, Glide is a breeze to use. It's a no-code app platform where you can build out a mobile app or page that meets your business needs.

Customize an existing template and add in your company branding or start from scratch so you can build it to suit. And don't let the no-code lingo fool you — you don't need any special skills to design an app for your event planning business. Gain quick and easy access to contracts, clients, vendors, and more from your phone, tablet, or desktop.

how do i start my own event planning business

If you're running live events, Event Hub is a good choice. It's a CRM platform designed to manage vendors, process payments, applications, and more. And if you're running live events with exhibitors, it's possible to categorize them and send personalized push notifications.

GlueUp is a CRM dedicated to non-profits. If you plan to work in this space, this is a good CRM to check out. Manage your contacts, automate workflows, and effortlessly follow up with new leads. Inside GlueUp, you can segment your leads and personalize email campaigns.

The Best Tool For Small Businesses

As you can see, there are many tools out there to help you run your event planning business. This event planning start-up kit is a good resource to help you avoid information overload.

Typically, the best approach when you're new to running a business is to keep things simple. Flipping back and forth between platforms can be stressful and mentally exhausting. Opting for one app to do it (almost) all will save you time, money, and mental energy.

Glide is a no-code app platform that lets you build powerful custom apps for your event planning business in minutes. With Glide, you can track budgets, manage all your projects, organize clients and vendors, and so much more. And a user-friendly, attractive drag and drop interface is so simple that anyone can use it.

The best part is, you can create apps in Glide for free. Get started today and choose from a large selection of existing templates or design your custom app now.

Start your event planning business today with Glide!

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How to Start an Event Planning Business

Event planners help their clients organize and orchestrate events of all types and sizes. Everything from weddings and social gatherings to an industry-specific, professional soiree, an event planner’s job is to make sure everything runs smoothly, ensuring that any problems will be handled appropriately.

You may also be interested in additional low cost business ideas .

Learn how to start your own Event Planning Business and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Event Planning Business Image

Start an event planning business by following these 10 steps:

  • Plan your Event Planning Business
  • Form your Event Planning Business into a Legal Entity
  • Register your Event Planning Business for Taxes
  • Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
  • Set up Accounting for your Event Planning Business
  • Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Event Planning Business
  • Get Event Planning Business Insurance
  • Define your Event Planning Business Brand
  • Create your Event Planning Business Website
  • Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your event planning business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

  • What are the startup and ongoing costs?
  • Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Event Planning Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

  • Your state's business records
  • Federal and state trademark records
  • Social media platforms
  • Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your event planning business?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening an event planning business.

An event planning business can have a fairly low overhead for start-up. If you are based from home, you will avoid rent and utilities costs. Other costs will include:

  • Business website and site hosting
  • High speed internet and phone service
  • Advertising and marketing
  • Business licenses and taxes

What are the ongoing expenses for an event planning business?

Re-stocking supplies, employee payroll and replacing damaged or broken equipment constitute much of the ongoing expenses. Other expenses can include:

  • Event publicity and invitations
  • Equipment rental
  • Signage and flyers

Who is the target market?

Your target market will consist of clients wanting either social or corporate event planning. Social event age groups range between 25-60+ whereas corporate events are focused more on employees and other business entities, regardless of age.

How does an event planning business make money?

Event planners make their money from the service fees, paid by the client, for the planning and operations of the event.

Because events are priced on a sliding scale of size and supplies/workers needed, pricing can range quite a bit. Many event planners charge a percentage, say 15-20%, relative to the overall cost of the event. Therefore, if an event is $100,000, the event planner would be collecting between $15,000-$20,000.

How much profit can an event planning business make?

Profit margins depend on the size and number of events you pick up per year. A social event planning business can make between $10 - $75 per hour, whereas a corporate level event planning business could charge between $15-$150 per hour. An average salary for an event planner employee is around $35,000 annually, with an owner averaging $75,000-80,000.

How can you make your business more profitable?

As the event planning business becomes well-established, you may consider adding additional services, such as catering, bartending, or even photography to your customer options. By supplying in-house hospitality services, you are able to offer clients a full-service experience and, in turn, create more business revenue.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your event planning business is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

  • Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
  • Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

  • Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
  • Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate an event planning business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Services Contract

Event planning businesses should require clients to sign a services agreement before starting a new project. This agreement should clarify client expectations and minimize risk of legal disputes by setting out payment terms and conditions, service level expectations, and intellectual property ownership. Here is an example of one such services agreement.

Recommended: Rocket Lawyer makes it easy to create a professional service agreement for your event planning business when you sign up for their premium membership. For $39.95 per month, members receive access to hundreds of legal agreements and on call attorneys to get complimentary legal advice.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Event Planning Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Event Planning Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market an event planning business

Marketing and promotion of your business will rely on highlighting your business strengths or areas of focus. You will also rely heavily on the success of past events and the positive words or recommendations of prior clients. Consistently use social media outlets to supply pictures and video of your events as well as connect and network with prospective clients and related professionals.

You will also need a website for your business. By linking to your site, you can give clients more information about your specialties. And, once they are on your website, they can contact you for additional questions and to book you for events.

How to keep customers coming back

Providing a professional level of service and an impeccable relationship for giving the customer what they want is key. People are buying a service from you, for a particularly important event. Your ability to satisfy their desires will determine how many return customers you’ll have.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

  • All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
  • Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
  • Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

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Welcome to the Startup Savant podcast , where we interview real startup founders at every stage of the entrepreneurial journey, from launch to scale.

Is this Business Right For You?

Those with an eye for detail, applied creativity, and the ability to easily converse with the general public, will find a great match in event planning. You must also have patience, humility, and the ability to help materialize the customer’s vision for their event.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at an event planning business?

An event planning business makes its money from hosted events. This means interacting with current and potential customers is critical. Either one on one or through larger social media outlets, a successful event planner must constantly work to get their name and reputation known to the public. Additionally, the business will be:

  • Reading and responding to customer e-mails
  • Re-stocking event inventory
  • Communicating with vendors or business partners, regarding upcoming jobs
  • Marketing and PR work
  • Employee training and continued education

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful event planning business?

To begin, it is not necessary to obtain a degree or professional certificate of training for event planning. It may help you, but many successful event planners learned many of the skills needed from on the job training. A background in customer service or the hospitality industry can provide great experience.

You should also be familiar with or be able to:

  • Communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally
  • Possess strong organizational skills
  • Be flexible and prepared to make adjustments to plans

What is the growth potential for an event planning business?

Event planning is steadily growing as an industry. With increased globalization in business, more and more companies are looking to host professional, well-organized events to grow their own businesses. And, as business grows internationally, event planning will continue to mirror this trend.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting an event planning business?

Understand your client base and seek to create a niche for your business. A niche may be weddings and receptions only. Or events near the coast. If you carve out your own special place amongst the competition, the specialization should pay off in return customers and customer referrals.

  • Market towards the demographics you’re most likely to see in your area.
  • Join a professional event planner association. Networking with other professionals can garner excellent insider tips.
  • Make your business as well known as possible through social media. Free advertising, especially for start-ups, is an excellent resource.

How and when to build a team

From the onset of starting an event planning business, you’ll need to consider who should be part of your team. It will be necessary to carefully select individuals who understand the multiple roles they will play in creating successful events. As your client list and event size and frequency grows, you’ll want to bring in more staff. You may even consider having an overflow pool of workers, who are pulled in for larger events or as needed, but aren’t full-time employees.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

  • Event Planners Association
  • Event Service Professionals Association

Real World Examples

  • The Event Planner
  • Who’s Got the Time?
  • Elle A Events

Further Reading

  • Tips for starting this business from home
  • Considerations when starting this business
  • Tips for starting this business

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

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Home >> #realtalk Blog >> Manage a business >> Start an Event Plann…

Start an Event Planning Business In 7 Steps

By Homebase Team

how do i start my own event planning business

You’ve got the passion and the vision. Maybe you’ve even helped plan a friend’s wedding or a company party. But taking the leap into starting your own event planning business? That’s a whole new ballgame, and it’s normal to feel lost or overwhelmed.

It’s about practical steps, hard work, and a sprinkle of creativity.

From identifying your target market to tackling legal requirements, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, without the runaround. We’ll even give you a heads-up about tools like Homebase that could be useful down the line.

Get your team in sync with our easy-to-use, all-in-one employee app.

1. Research and market analysis

The first step is to have a clear picture of the market landscape. Your goal? Uncover opportunities and threats, so you can position your business effectively. 

Here’s how you can approach it, step by step:

  • Identify your competitors: Who’s already out there? What services do they offer, and at what price points? 
  • Understand your target audience : Who are you catering to? What are their needs and budgets? If your area hosts many small businesses, maybe affordable launch events are a niche.
  • Analyze trends and demands : What’s trending in your area? Farm-to-table weddings or tech-savvy corporate gatherings? Tools like Google Trends are a goldmine.
  • What makes your region unique, and how can you leverage it?
  • What mistakes have others made that you can learn from?
  • What support networks (vendors, venues, etc.) are available locally?

These steps are the foundation of your business. Research wisely so your choices are data-driven, not just gut feelings.

2. Decide on your niche, services, and branding

Once you’ve got a grip on the market, it’s time to carve out your own space. Choosing a niche is more than picking a category; it’s about finding where your passion and the market’s need intersect. 

Here’s how to approach it:

  • Find your niche : Are you aiming for tech conferences, startup launch events, or perhaps industry-specific trade shows? Identify what excites you and what’s in demand in your area. For example, if you live in a tech hub, focusing on tech-related corporate events could be your sweet spot.’
  • Define your services : What will you offer within your niche? Will you offer end-to-end solutions or specialize in certain aspects like venue selection or guest management? Perhaps your forte is virtual event planning, catering to remote teams.
  • Logo and visuals : These should echo your style and the feel of the events you plan.
  • Mission statement : What sets you apart in the business event landscape? Is it your innovative approach or unbeatable vendor connections?
  • Value proposition : Clearly define what clients will gain by choosing your service. Is it the seamless integration of technology or the unique venues you offer?

Deciding on a niche is all about focusing your energy where you can truly shine. This is where your business starts to feel real, so take the time to get it right.

3. Build a business plan and establish pricing

how do i start my own event planning business

Let’s say you’re launching your event planning business, focusing on corporate events like conferences and product launches. You’ve recruited a small team, and one of your first projects is a week-long business expo in a city with stringent labor regulations.

Suddenly, you find your team working longer hours, right on the edge of breaching overtime rules. Failure to comply with local labor laws could mean fines, not to mention the potential harm to your budding reputation. It’s a real headache that you didn’t need at such a critical time.

With a platform like Homebase, you can easily access information on local labor laws, calculate correct overtime pay, and even consult live with a certified advisor to review your staffing plan. 

Plus, establishing pricing demands a clear understanding of costs, including potential legal costs. With access to Homebase’s digital library of guides, training, and templates tailored to your business, you’ll be well-equipped to build a solid, compliant foundation to build a sustainable and legally sound business.

4. Start networking and community-building

Your network isn’t just about gathering names and numbers. It’s about building a community that you can rely on, and that trusts you in return.

Here’s how you can build your network effectively:

  • Suppliers and vendors : Establish relationships with dependable suppliers. If you’re organizing a tech conference, having a reliable tech supplier ensures that you’ll have the latest gadgets and gear on time. No last-minute scrambles, no disappointed clients.
  • Venue partnerships : Negotiate partnerships with unique venues. Let’s say you find a modern, eco-friendly building that resonates with your client’s brand for a product launch. Forming a relationship with this venue could mean exclusive access to future events.
  • Event-related alliances : Collaborate with other event-focused businesses. If you’re planning a business gala, team up with a renowned local chef to offer exclusive catering options, turning a standard meal into a gourmet experience.
  • Community engagement: Don’t just network; engage with your community. Attend local business events, join professional groups, and actively participate. When you’re planning a charity fundraiser, having strong community ties can amplify your reach, making the event a true success.

5. Develop online presence and marketing strategy

Your online presence isn’t just a part of your marketing strategy; it’s often the first impression potential clients will have of your business event planning services. 

Here’s how you can ensure it’s a lasting one:

  • Website : Your website is your digital storefront. Make it sleek and professional, highlighting your previous successes. Include a portfolio of past business conferences or trade shows, so potential clients can see your expertise in action.
  • Social media : Utilize platforms like LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter) to engage with other professionals. Share valuable insights about event planning, showcase behind-the-scenes preparations, and celebrate successes.
  • Content marketing : Start a blog or a YouTube channel sharing behind the scenes in planning your grand opening and other tips starting your business events . By offering free, valuable content, you position yourself as an expert, attracting clients who value your insights and approach.
  • SEO and advertising : Invest in Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and targeted advertising to reach potential clients actively looking for event planning services. If a business is searching for a planner for their next big product launch, you want to be at the top of their search results.
  • Client testimonials : Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews on platforms like Google My Business. Imagine a potential client reading a rave review about the seamless execution of a recent business expo you organized. That’s a powerful motivator.

6. Determine how you’ll manage sales and customer relationship management (CRM)

Sales and CRM are the heart of your event planning business; they keep the clients coming and the relationships growing.

  • Understand your clients : Know what businesses are looking for in an event. Are they aiming for an innovative product launch or an elegant corporate dinner? Understanding their needs ensures you can pitch the perfect event.
  • Use CRM tools : Tracking interactions, setting reminders, and managing follow-ups become streamlined. With CRM tools, you’ll never miss a follow-up call after a successful sales meeting. 
  • Create customized proposals : Tailor your proposals to each client. If a business wants to host an eco-friendly conference, present a proposal showcasing your expertise in sustainable event planning. It’s personal touches like these that seal the deal.
  • Provide exceptional service : After the contract is signed, the real work begins. Regular updates, clear communication, and exceeding expectations turn a one-time client into a long-term partner. Think of a client so impressed with the launch event you planned that they automatically think of you for their next one.
  • Ask for feedback : Post-event, request feedback and address any concerns promptly. If something didn’t go as planned during a seminar, knowing what went wrong and fixing it turns a potentially negative experience into a showcase of your professionalism.
  • Maintain relationships : Don’t let the connection go cold after the event. Send thank-you notes, share relevant content, or simply check in from time to time. It’s these small gestures that keep you in their minds for future events.

7. Consider how you’ll run your small business into the future

how do i start my own event planning business

Initially, it might be just you and some contractors, but as you secure more contracts for business conferences, product launches, or corporate retreats, you’ll likely need to expand your team. 

When this growth happens, you can use a tool like Homebase to handle time-sensitive events and simultaneously juggle timesheets , payroll, hiring and onboarding , and compliance. With Homebase, you can directly link team members’ timesheets with their time tracking data, so you can round accurately and legally. 

It also lets you set up communication alerts to avoid staff accidentally rolling into expensive overtime and send team members reminders to take their breaks and clock out of work on time.

Plus, Homebase’s scheduling and manager log can be integrated with your point-of-sale system, so you can easily track when your peak periods are and assign staff accordingly. Add notes and give a human perspective on the data collected, all aimed at streamlining operations and boosting staff engagement further.

Get your event planning business on track with Homebase

From market analysis to networking, each step has its own challenges. How do you find the right vendors? What strategies will make your online marketing effective? How do you handle customer relationships as the business scales? 

And what about the backend, operations, and team management? With an all-in-one HR and team management solution like Homebase, you can set and review internal policies, onboard new team members, and run payroll all in one place, even accessible on the cloud. 

By combining time tracking with scheduling, payroll, and communication tools, you’re not just managing your team, you’re efficiently handling everything from assigning shifts to making payments. Advanced clock-in verification tools help you monitor when staff members are working, be it on-site or off-site.

And with our free plan , you can access many of these high-impact features for up to 20 employees at a single location without any cost.

FAQs about starting an event planning business

Is event planning profitable.

Yes, event planning can be profitable. The key is identifying your niche, whether it’s weddings, corporate events, or social gatherings, and tailoring your services to meet those specific needs. Profitability may vary based on location, experience, and scale, but with proper planning and execution, an event planning business can be both a rewarding and financially successful endeavor.

How do you start as an event planner?

You can start as an event planner by: 

  • Identifying your niche and target market
  • Building a business plan outlining your services, pricing strategy, and marketing approach
  • Acquiring necessary certifications or training to enhance your credibility
  • Networking with vendors, venues, and other industry professionals
  • Creating an online presence with a professional website and active social media accounts
  • Offering initial services to friends or family to build your portfolio 
  • Gradually, expanding your reach through word-of-mouth and online advertising
  • Being detail-oriented, creative, and customer-focused 

Remember:  This is not legal advice. If you have questions about your particular situation, please consult a lawyer, CPA, or other appropriate professional advisor or agency.

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How to start an event planning business

February 17, 2022

reserved place setting at an event

Step 1: Understand the job requirements

Step 2: find your niche, step 3: write a business plan, step 4: market your business, step 5: get insurance, get the party started, subscribe to greenlight by thimble..

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Whether you’re coordinating and facilitating a wedding, a conference, a trade show, or a corporate fundraiser, event planning is a high-pressure, high-stakes job.

It takes a whole lot of creativity, energy, organization, and people skills to thrive in the event planning industry—but if you have those qualities, being an event planner can be a career to celebrate. Knowing how to start an event planning business is your first order of business.

You may have already coordinated events on a smaller or ad-hoc scale. That experience will help you as you move forward in this industry. But launching an official party planning business requires jumping through legal and logistical hoops.

Think you have what it takes to become a professional party planner? (We think you do.) Here’s how to start an event planning business in 5 steps.

If you’re brand-new to the official event-planning industry, it’s easy to think that the job is all glitz, champagne, and celebrations. While that’s the result of your careful planning, things are a lot less glamorous behind the curtain. For any event, there are about a thousand boxes you (the professional planner) have to check off to ensure that everything runs smoothly for the client and attendees.

Those tasks may include, but aren’t limited to:

  • Creating an event design or theme
  • Arranging entertainment
  • Finding the venue
  • Booking vendors
  • Sending RSVPs and marketing information to attendees
  • Balancing a budget
  • Coordinating with staff and subcontractors
  • Decorating the space
  • Handling the catering and bar staff
  • Supervising the event

There are about a thousand more boxes to check off within each one of these tasks. The Type A personality type is well-suited to this line of work. You need to be:

  • Detail-oriented
  • Extremely organized
  • An ace problem solver
  • Have excellent communication skills.

Beyond that, you need to be a savvy negotiator, understand how to manage a budget, and know how to market your services. Especially if you’re a wedding planner, you must have high emotional intelligence to put nervous brides, grooms, wedding parties, and other starring attendees at ease in the midst of high-pressure situations.

If you’re not yet sure that your heart is fully in starting an event planning business on your own, it’s a good idea to give the job a test run. First, consider working as a personal or production assistant for an event planning company or experienced party planner. That way, you can see if the job is a good fit before you strike out on your own and find your corner of the business.

Once you’re clear on what the job entails, nail down your niche. Although you may be tempted to advertise yourself to prospective clients as a jack-or jill-of-all-trades, that’s actually not the best marketing strategy. A general title makes it much harder to distinguish yourself in a crowded market. Offering one type of service that you do really well demonstrates your expertise.

There are four primary types of events: social, corporate, nonprofit, and association—each with its own specializations. For example, managing a fundraising gala and coordinating a wedding are both social events, but they’re uniquely different jobs with distinctive requirements, challenges, and demands.

Once you’ve decided on your event specialization, consider your services. If you’re a wedding planner, for instance, will you offer full-service planning leading up to the wedding, or will you also offer day-of coordinating? Will you offer pre-wedding services such as showers, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and honeymoon planning, as well?

Perhaps you’ll eventually be able to offer a full range of event planning services. But when you’re just starting, narrow it down so you can perfect your flagship service. (Hint: that’s all part of your business plan.)

Writing a business plan is the next step to start a party planning business. Your business plan is a detailed guide outlining your business structure, what it offers, how it operates, its long- and short-term goals, and some crucial financial information.

Your business plan will not only help your business grow and reach important milestones, it can also attract funding. 1

Every business plan is different. Some are highly detailed for presenting to investors, and others act more as “road maps” that help the business owner organize a plan of action. At the very least, your preliminary business plan should address the following:

  • What services your business offers
  • How your business sets itself apart from competitors
  • Your target market
  • Your mission statement
  • How you plan to evolve your business over the next few years
  • Your business structure
  • Your business budget
  • How much money you have on hand, and how much you need to launch
  • Your funding sources

Luckily, there are tons of business plan tools and templates available. Start by checking out the SBA’s guide to writing a business plan, which includes sample business plans. 2

You also need to make your business official. Start by coming up with a business name and choosing a business entity. Next,register your business with your Secretary of State, Business Bureau, or Business Agency, and gather any funding you need to get your business off the ground.

After you register your business, you have to invite customers to your party.

As an event planner, you’re probably naturally gifted at networking, so now’s the time to use those skills. Word of mouth is one of the most effective marketing skills in this industry. Scour your network for potential leads and send out a mass email to your contacts announcing your business. Ask happy customers to spread the word to their friends, family, colleagues, and social media followers.

With the vast majority of consumers conducting their browsing, socializing, shopping, and pretty much everything else online, having a website for your small business is non-negotiable.

Fortunately, there are website platforms that allow you to bundle a domain name and hosting services and create a website in just minutes. For this step, remember to take the following actions:

  • Build your blog to improve search results
  • Utilize SEO best practices throughout the site
  • Design a site that’s visually appealing, clearly states what you do, and is tailored to your target audience
  • Make the site easy and intuitive to navigate
  • Be sure to include your contact information, links to your social media accounts, and a portfolio of your work

If you haven’t already done so, now’s the time to create social media accounts dedicated to your business. Instagram and Twitter are mainstays. But as your line of work is aesthetically driven, a Pinterest account can also be a great way to showcase your work and inspiration.

Big groups of people gathering together is inherently risky. A liability claim filed against your business could ground your event planning business before it even launches.

General liability insurance can cover you for liabilities like non-employee third-party bodily injury, third-party property damage, personal and advertising injury. It provides the investigation of a claim and even the defense of such claim if a client takes your business to court.

Thimble’s Event Insurance is the easiest and most flexible way to protect your business. You can choose a policy that covers you by the hour, day, month, or year, so you’ll only pay when you’re actually working an event.

Along with general liability coverage, Event Insurance offers the option to add liquor liability coverage , which provides coverage for legal fees and damages incurred because damage or injury caused by a third party as a result of alcohol consumption at your BYOB or open-bar event.

To get your quote, just download the Thimble mobile app or click “Get a Quote,” enter a few details about your business. When you purchase, you’ll receive your policy and as many certificate of liability insurance as you need via the Thimble app and email.

Now, you can run your business with the peace of mind you absolutely need to track down that missing vegetarian meal for the groom’s sister at Table One.

Before you bust out the bubbly, let’s quickly recap the five crucial steps to becoming a professional party planner:

  • Understand the job’s extensive requirements. Ideally, work as an assistant to a party planner, or organize small-scale parties to gain hands-on experience.
  • Pinpoint what types of events you’ll plan, and any other additional services you’ll offer clients.
  • Write a business plan and follow through with foundational requirements, like registering your business and gathering funding.
  • Network, create a website and social media accounts, and do whatever it takes to land your first client.
  • Protect your business by purchasing general liability insurance.

As you go about launching your company, remember that success takes time. Stick to your business plan, work on building a clientele, create connections in the industry, and take calculated risks. Do that, and your parties will soon be the talk of the town.

  • U.S. Small Business Administration. 5 Reasons You Need a Business Plan.
  • SBA. Write Your Business Plan.

Written on February 17, 2022

Our editorial content is intended for informational purposes only and is not written by a licensed insurance agent. Terms and conditions for rate and coverage may vary by class of business and state.

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How to Start an Event Planning Business

Starting your own event planning business is an exciting time. A whole new world is opening up where you can become the master of your own destiny and deliver the events you always dreamed of instead of delivering someone else’s ideas. There is a lot to launching any business and it is all too easy to miss something important.

That’s why we put this guide together. It is part of our series of articles on starting your own events business. If you would like to learn more about setting up on your own, try our ‘ Setting up an event business masterclass ’. The complete guide to running your own show!

Is running your own event management business for you

Is running your own event management business for you?

Before you quit your job and set up on your own, you should have a long hard think about whether being your own boss is right for you. It is exciting and challenging but comes with a lot of responsibility.

Questions you should ask yourself honestly include:

  • Are you organised and disciplined enough to work on your own?
  • Do you have the skills necessary to run a business as well as organize events?
  • Do you have savings or income to help you survive while you’re getting started?
  • Can you multitask and wear many hats at once?
  • Do you have the ideas and experience to deliver top class events?
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Creative events with impact (@evolveevents) on Jul 18, 2020 at 11:45pm PDT

Setting up an event management business

Setting up a party planning business is a lot like planning an event. You will need to come up with a business plan, give your business a name, consider its USP, provide a budget, consider marketing and provide a means to measure success. All things you will likely have experience with already.

A typical business launch would include the following:

  • Business research – Assess opportunities, competitors, risks and rewards.
  • Business plan – Outline of intent, strategy to deliver that intent, financial considerations and audience analysis.
  • Business admin – Business name, logo, branding, domain name and website.
  • Business setup – Acquiring licences, software, insurance, premises, staff and equipment.
  • Marketing and promotion – Getting the word out using contacts, email, social media, blogging, guest posting, news, reviews and anything else you can think of.
  • Business delivery – The actual planning and delivery of events.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Catch My Party (@catchmyparty) on Jul 26, 2020 at 4:05pm PDT

Business research

The same as you would research the viability of a particular event, you have to research the viability of your event management business. You will need to research demand, supply, competition, your local and target market, gaps in those markets, your USP and how it will fit into those markets and local licensing, legal and insurance requirements.

The fuller the picture you have before you begin, the more targeted all of the following steps will be.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by BUSINESS STRATEGIST (@branded_entrepreneurs) on May 29, 2020 at 12:52am PDT

Business plan

The detail and scope of your business plan depends on how you are going to finance your business. If you are self-funding, your business plan can be simplified. If you need startup capital, you will need a lot more detail on every aspect of your event planning business.

Business plans work a lot like event business plans . You will need to outline your goals, your target market, your USP, income and expenses and justify exactly why a stakeholder should invest in your business. It’s detailed work but essential if you need money to get off the ground.

Business plans are very detailed documents. This guide over at Start Donut goes into a lot more detail than we can here .

Business administration

Business admin includes the nuts and bolts of setting up a business. That will include coming up with a business name, securing the domain (.com and .co.uk), acquiring a logo and branding, having a website designed, setting up social media accounts, getting an accountant, registering the business and getting the correct insurance.

We cover naming in detail in ‘Event Company Names’. Logos and branding are equally important and are vital to the success of your venture. Website design is something that requires planning, especially if you’re outsourcing it as it can take days or weeks to build depending on its complexity.

Getting an accountant should be straightforward enough, as should registering the business . Insurance may be more complex but a good quality insurance broker should be able to assist.

Business setup

Business setup is all about paving the way for you to begin marketing your wares. That can include acquiring licences to put on events, live music and so on. It can also include premises if you are planning to open an office, staff to help you run the business, office equipment and software.

You can run an event planning business from home to begin with if you have the space. Equipment can initially be minimal, a laptop and printer along with high speed internet should be enough at first. Software can be cloud software to avoid up front expenditure. This guide has an outline of your software options as an event planner .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Golnaz Raadfar (@golnaz_raadfar) on Jul 28, 2020 at 12:43am PDT

Marketing and promotion

If you have set up your company, covered the administrative needs, hired the staff, got the insurance and installed the software, you are now ready to promote your business. Again, you can use your existing marketing and PR skills here. Rather than promoting the event, you are promoting an entire event planning business.

You should use every medium possible, concentrate on your USP, identify your target market, assign audience personas and devise a strategy for reaching them. If you’re not a marketing expert, hire one or hire an agency. Advertising and promotion is an essential skill in setting up any business and the same is true here. If you don’t have that expertise, hire someone who does. Freelancer or permanent, as long as they can get the job done.

Business delivery

The delivery stage of your event planning business is going to be your daily routine. As an experienced planner, you shouldn’t need us to tell you what goes on here. Just remember, where you were able to dedicate all of your time and attention to the event at hand, now you will have to reserve time and attention for the bigger picture too. Your business.

As if you didn’t have enough to contend with, you will have to answer client queries, social media requests, answer comments and perform the myriad of tasks all business owners have to contend with alongside actually trying to deliver an event.

Good luck with it!

how do i start my own event planning business

QC Event School

Business , Your Event Career

How to Start an Event Planning Business

Ask any entrepreneur and they’ll tell you that being your own boss is the best feeling in the world. Combine that feeling with the passion you already have for planning, and you have yourself a wonderful and rewarding career! But not every business finds success right out of the gate. In fact, many businesses fall flat on their faces—all a consequence of lack of preparation!

If you want to start an event planning business, you’ll need a few core building blocks. First, you’ll need professional event planning training or industry experience. Second, you’ll need a bit of collateral to get your company off the ground (luckily an event planning business can launch for a very low cost). Third, you’ll need the drive and dedication to find clients and get yourself hired!

Now, these are all presented in general terms. If you’re lost and not sure where to start, keep reading. We’re going to dissect each step for you!

Education/Experience Requirements

graduate event planner certification

Here’s the honest truth: Yes, you really can just wake up one day and start an event planning business. But, just how far can you go without any training or prior knowledge? Not to mention, you probably won’t know enough to even get a business off the ground. Also, I doubt you’d be able to find a single event planning client who would put any confidence in your abilities without evidence of any competency in the industry!

If you have zero experience in the event planning industry, start with getting event planner training. There’s no question that being a certified event planner will make your life a lot easier as you start your own business.

The great news is good event planning courses will also provide you with business training, where you’ll learn how to launch and manage your own event planning business. Since that’s your ultimate goal, training as an event planner can effectively become a two-birds-one-stone situation!

If you already have experience in the event planning industry and a strong portfolio under your belt, then odds are you don’t need additional industry education or certifications to start your own event planning business. If you’re a business newbie, however, you might benefit from taking a course that’s going to specifically focus on starting your own business. Consider courses that cover project management, marketing, employee management, accounting, legal requirements, etc.

Business Launch Requirements

event planner wedding planning portfolio

Being a certified or experienced event planner is one important piece of the puzzle, but you’ll need more than that to start your own planning business. If you’re going to be working for yourself, you must handle the administrative work, too.

In order to get your event business off the ground, you’ll need:

  • A name for your event planning business
  • A portfolio of your best work (this can be school work if you’re new to the industry)
  • A good website for your business (you can’t get away from this these days!)
  • Office space (this can often be a home office) and supplies
  • A business license (if required in your area)
  • Business insurance (there is specific insurance for event planning businesses!)
  • A pricing structure for your services (often the toughest part of starting your business!)
  • Contract templates for vendors and clients that have been reviewed by a lawyer

All these elements (and many more) should be covered in a detailed business startup plan. If you’re lucky enough to be taking a good event planning course , that course should include training where you’ll develop this type of a business plan.

DOWNLOAD A BUSINESS LAUNCH CHECKLIST

Reality Check: A fair amount of people start their own business because they’re passionate about the industry, only to learn that running a business means you’ll be responsible for the business, not just for doing the job you love to do. Realistically, it’ll probably be a 50/50 split of your time between running your business and planning events.

Personality Requirements

event planner teamwork

Not every person is made to run their own business. It takes a specific personality type to be a successful business owner… and to enjoy running their own business! You’re probably a good fit for running your own business if you:

  • Are a self-starter. As a business owner, you won’t have anyone above you who will push you to do work or do a good job. So you have to be able to push yourself!
  • Are good at managing stress. Being your own boss can be stressful, especially when things don’t go exactly according to plan. If you have a tendency to break down or shut down when stressed, business ownership is probably not a good fit for you.
  • Have realistic expectations. Unless you’re starting your event planning business with years of experience under your belt AND a strong client base out of the gate, you can’t expect to get dozens of clients and make hundreds of thousands of dollars in your first year. Having realistic expectations and understanding your limitations will make you a happier business owner.
  • You don’t give up easily. When things don’t go as planned, you take a step back and try something else. You’re not easily deterred or distracted from important goals.
  • Are good with money. You don’t have to be rich to start your own business. But you do have to be financially responsible. If you’re unable to stick to a budget in your personal life, consider long and hard whether you’ll be able to do so with your business.
  • Don’t mind taking risks. In order to launch, maintain and grow a successful business, you’ll need to be comfortable with taking calculated risks with your business. There’s always a chance that a decision will prove to be the wrong one, and you need to be OK with that possibility.
  • Know when to ask for help. You know you’re not an expert in every area and you don’t have to be! You’re perfectly happy to ask for help when you need to. It doesn’t make you any less of a business owner.
  • Want to run a business! Okay, so this might be a no-brainer. But a lot of people start an event planning business because they think it’s the only way to work in the industry. But there are many other industries that could use someone with your education. So if you want to be an event planner but don’t want to be a business owner, there are plenty of event planning jobs out there for you!

young professional event and wedding planner smiling

The Key Takeaway

There are tons of perks to starting an event planning business. You’ll be working in a booming industry that you love, you’ll be your own boss, and you’ll spend your days planning special occasions to make clients happy. Who could ask for more! As long as you’re prepared to do hard work and know what to expect, get expert advice, and set achievable goals, you’re well on your way to starting a successful business in the event planning industry!

Just how much you can accomplish with an event planner certification? Check out this interview of Gianna Luchese, a QC graduate !

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How to start a party and event planning business

how do i start my own event planning business

Our experts

Written and reviewed by:.

As the nation emerged from the COVID pandemic, desperate to reconnect in person, party and events planning became a multi-billion-pound industry with plenty of demand across the UK.

Now, amid a cost of living crisis, there are a few emerging issues that new business owners need to stay aware of. Rising inflation means corporate clients are working to stricter budgets, while consumers won't be as easily convinced to part with their hard-earned money. That means the most successful event planning firms will be the ones that can offer a truly incredible and unique experience that stands out from rivals.

Luckily, with a clear concept, effective marketing and a few key transferable skills, you’ll maximise your chances of beating out the competition and finding success. That's where our experts come in.

We have been helping businesses to set up across tons of sectors, and we understand the challenges and opportunities that are ahead in the events industry. So put the champagne on ice for now, and read on to learn more about the costs, considerations and benefits involved in becoming an event or party planner.

At Startups.co.uk, we're here to help small UK businesses to get started, grow and succeed. We have helpful resources for helping new businesses get off the ground – you can use the tool below to get started today.

What Does Your Business Need Help With?

This article will cover:

Case study: above & beyond solutions, define your event planning business idea, conduct market research, come up with an event company name, develop your business plan, come up with a pricing strategy, understand the requirements, start promoting your event planning start-up, find suppliers and build contacts.

What does the future of the industry look like?

In order to combat the banning of in-person meetings, the events industry had partly pivoted towards online. The new fashion for virtual events has forever changed the way organisations will host and engage with their audience.

That's not to say virtual events are here to stay. Given the option, most attendees will want to go to a physical event – as most of us have been ‘Zoomed' out by pandemic working.

But digital events are a growing new branch in the sector which you should keep an eye on to ensure you stay ahead of the market and your competition.

Flexible working is also accelerating the trend. Corporate events will need to consider their employees that are still isolating and working from home. This means your business will need to provide online, offline, and  hybrid events solutions.

What COVID-19 rules do event planning firms need to follow?

From August 2021, all COVID-19 safety rules and regulations were fully lifted, which means that you don't legally need to require any specific safety measures from customers or staff members if you're planning to host events.

However, cultural changes have still taken place, including a new understanding about the spread of germs that public places can influence.

There are still some basic safety requirements that help to make your event attendees feel safe, such as:

  • Spaced out seating for social distancing
  • Hand sanitiser stations
  • Increased cleaning and disinfecting rota
  • Optional mask wearing

You could consider keeping these rules in place to help returning customers feel more at ease.

Sam Stockmans, founder of the newly found events services company Above & Beyond Solutions, has always had a passion for the industry.

“Everyones first nightclub experience is daunting, and I could feel that amongst my friends when we started going out. I wanted to put on parties and make it a more comfortable experience for everyone, so I started by organising 16+ nightclub events.

“I love the events planning industry, that ability to create moments for others through an event you are organising, there is no feeling like it.”

After dabbling in the nightclub events scene, Stockmans went on to organising exhibitions across Europe, before he decided to go it alone with his own venture, Above & Beyond Solutions.

In terms of the biggest challenges he's faced in his near 15 year career in the industry, Stockmans said:

“The biggest challenge is definitely standing out. There are so many competitors in the events industry space. You need to have a USP and you need to be able to sell it confidently.

“For us at Above, our USP is the level of service people receive. My team is made up of highly experienced professionals and creatives.”

And when asked about anything he wish he'd known before he started in the industry, Stockmans said:

“I wish I'd been less arrogant. I made mistakes in my younger years in the industry because I got ahead of myself.

Attitude is everything in this industry, and it will do any entrepreneur wonders to remember that, as the last thing you want is to burn bridges with other companies in the space that you will be frequently collaborating with.”

When it comes to starting an events company, you’ll first need to decide on the type of events services you want to offer.

Would you like to offer the full event planning service, organising every aspect of an event from inception to execution? Or would you rather focus on one or two particular skill sets? For example:

  • Event decorating
  • Corporate entertainment management
  • Event promotion
  • Catering (find out more in our guide about starting your own catering business )

It’s also key that you decide on the type of events you want to work on. In your early days, you’ll find it easier to market yourself clearly, attract customers and build the right skills and experience if you have a niche.

Events can be classified into four broad categories based on their purposes and objectives:

  • Personal events , such as weddings, birthday parties and family celebrations
  • Organisational events , such as commercial, political and charitable events, conferences and product launches
  • Leisure events , such as sports events and concerts
  • Cultural events , such as ceremonial, religious, art or heritage events

It’s advisable to pick a niche that you’re familiar with and already have a little experience in. If you come from a corporate background, for example, you may have a clearer understanding of what a successful conference looks like than a successful art festival. Remember, you can always take on more specialties as your business grows in size.

Tristan Johnson, founder of TYPE , which provides networking events “that enhance wellbeing and that millenials can afford”, believes drawing on your own experience of the events market as a consumer is a good idea, she says:

“As a young millennial entering the competitive job market fresh out of university, making valuable connections to progress my career was really difficult. Either I’d attend networking events that weren’t relevant for me or find myself spending far too much money. After chatting with a few friends who felt the same, our business model was created.”

NB: If you’d like to become a wedding planner, be sure to also check out our guide to starting a wedding planning business .

Bear in mind that, once you’ve come up with a concept, you should always test it to make sure it has a good chance of succeeding in the market. To do this, you’ll need to…

It’s really important that you understand both your target audience and your competition before you decide how to reach out to potential customers, settle on a pricing structure or – in short – do anything else.

Market research will help you to understand:

  • Who your competitors are
  • How you can differentiate yourself from them
  • How much demand there is for your particular event planning service
  • The type of people who are most likely to want/need your service
  • How much your target customers will be prepared to pay for your events, and whether you can make a healthy profit from this

To answer these questions, try:

Researching the competition online

Often a simple Google search will show you who the events businesses in your local area are, but the ONS, the FSB and the British Chambers of Commerce also hold more specific, publicly accessible information about different businesses.

Try to find out how your competitors operate, how big they are, who their customers are, how much they charge, and what their USPs are. Think about how you can bring something different to the table in order to compete.

Running an online survey

Online surveys are fairly cheap to set up, and you can also take to Facebook and LinkedIn to run questionnaires.

Ask people what they would expect from your events planning service, the budget they would have to spend on an event such as yours, how often they’d use you, what would make them want to use you, and anything else you want to know.

Holding focus groups

Essentially a face-to-face version of an online survey, a focus group gives you the opportunity to discuss your business with potential customers.

As well as asking the above questions, you can also talk more specifically about your own business, asking what they think of your concept and branding, and share ideas.

As fun a task as choosing a name for your party planning business may seem, it’s not something to be taken lightly.

Your name is the first thing most customers will hear about you, and so it’s important that it accurately represents what they can expect from your services. Plus, it needs to be something you’re proud to shout from the rooftops.

To come up with a name, try these tips:

  • Think of the type of events you want to plan and the style of service you’ll aim to deliver. Write down every word that springs to mind – no matter how obvious or abstract. The more, the better. Then single out your favourite words and explore them. Do they have synonyms that are better? How does it sound when you combine them in different ways?
  • Consider your own name. Can you name the business after yourself?
  • If you’d like your business to be one that doesn’t take itself too seriously, try thinking up event-related puns or phrases you might be able to use as a name. Just try not to be too cheesy!
  • Think about existing events planning businesses whose names you really like. Take inspiration from what makes them so great – but make sure you don’t simply copy them.

When it comes to coming up with a name, simplicity is key.

On the concept of coming up with a name, Stockmans says:

“Keep it simple, catchy, and memorable. Keep the name strong and simple, the strapline mission statement simple and the branding clear.”

If the name you choose doesn’t make it obvious that you’re an events planner – if you’ve picked a rather abstract word, for example, or are using your name – we’d advise adding a tagline. For example: Joe Bloggs – Party Planning.

Remember, your event planning business’ name should be:

  • Easy to spell and pronounce.
  • Original, and as unique as possible.
  • A good representation of the services you’re offering (don’t go for something jokey and fun if you’ll be planning serious corporate events, for instance).
  • Appealing to your audience. Ask target customers (whether through friends and family, an online survey or a focus group) for their honest opinion of your name.

Once you’ve settled on a name, you’ll need to check that it’s available – you can do this using the Companies House Register – and also check that it’s free to be used as a domain name for your website: for example, www.joebloggs.co.uk. It’s best to register your domain name as soon as possible.

If your chosen name is available, you’ll need to officially register it as your company’s name .

Your business' name will tie inextricably into your business’ branding as a whole. Its tone will be the starting point for how you design your logo, website, marketing materials and messages, social media posts and more – all together, this should convey the tone and purpose of your business.

Bourlet suggests that you create clear guidelines for targeting your specific target audience with your branding.

Getting professional help

Consulting a graphic designer may help when it comes to creating a logo and other visual assets. Finding yourself a graphic designer is a good creative opinion allows you to brainstorm with an expert third-party.

TYPE founder Johnston says:

“Once you have completed an in-depth persona analysis, ensure all of your work is aiming towards these individuals to gain the greatest results. Building out strong brand guidelines is critical, involving how you deliver your content, the tone of voice, the colour code used on the site and in all branding, and the persona you will be targeting with your marketing.

“Studies have shown our attention span is shortening so branding must be easily consumable, easy on the eye and fitting to your personal brand, be it premium, fun, colourful or sleek.”

A business plan is an important document that takes its reader through every aspect of a business – including how it will run, plans for how it will progress, and forecasts of what it will achieve in the future.

As well as something potential investors and banks will want to see, writing a business plan will give you the opportunity to break down and plan every aspect of your business step-by step – including details of your business model and pricing structure, a marketing strategy, plans for hiring staff in the future and those oft-daunting financial predictions.

Another great way to organise your business plan is to use a project management software. These sophisticated tools are aimed at delegation and multi-project management, and can help you stay on top of deadlines as you design your dream events business.

Check out our  free online comparison tool  to learn more about the providers available and their top deals and discounts.

A crucial part of your business model, to plan your pricing you’ll first need to decide whether you want to charge:

  • A flat fee for the whole service
  • An hourly rate for the time you spend working on the event
  • Commission-based prices

You should use what you’ve learnt from members of your target audience and your competitors to decide on which of these you’ll choose, along with the actual prices you’ll charge.

Remember, while your prices should be attractive to your target customer, they must also cover the operating expenses you spend on planning the event, while still leaving room for a healthy profit for you.

Work out how much it’ll cost you to put on an event based on your plans and ideal suppliers, and see whether you’d still get a decent margin based on what customers want to pay.

That being said, making sure you're giving your clients value for money is crucial.

Don't be afraid to adjust your offering if your pricing seems unreasonable. It may be that you need to re-evaluate how much you’re able to spend on pulling together the event or how many services you can offer as part of your package.

Qualifications

You certainly don’t need a formal education in events and party organising before becoming a party planner.

However, if you would like to study events management, you can:

  • Research your local colleges and universities, or online facilities like the Open University, to see whether they offer something that suits you.
  • Look into specialist event institutions. Event Academy , for example, offers four accredited event management courses which you can choose to undertake online or on a physical premises in London.

Or, as an alternative to studying, you can always build up your events experience (if you don't have any) by volunteering to help out at local events. This will give you a practical insight into the many cogs that form a single event, and you might be surprised at the level of graft involved!

Regulations

Follow this checklist to make sure you’re operating your business legitimately and without fear of costly legal problems:

✓ Obtain licenses

The licenses you need to operate your business legally will be down to your local authority or council (get in touch with them to find out which licenses you need) and also the venues at which you'll be holding events.

✓ Register as a sole trader

Unless you want to set up a limited company (though most start-ups don’t begin life this way), you’ll need to register as a sole trader with HMRC, and understand the tax implications of this.

✓ Set up a business banking account

This, plus you’ll need to get an accounting and cashflow system in order so you can easily manage invoices and outgoings. It’s a good idea to hire an accountant to help you out in the early stages.

✓ Prepare to take payments

Alongside your business bank account you’ll also need a merchant account. After a client pays you, their money will be held in your merchant account until it is approved by the client’s bank, at which point it moves into your business account – so it’s crucial you have one.

✓ Get yourself insured

You’ll need public liability insurance and professional indemnity insurance , plus employers’ liability insurance if you’re going to hire employees.

You might also need buildings and contents insurance if you keep expensive equipment at home or in an office, and vehicle insurance for any vans you use to transport materials to and from venues.

✓ Brush up on your health and safety

While the venues you hold events in will likely have their own set of generic health and safety regulations, it’s vital that you carry out your own risk assessments in advance of your events, detailing the hazards and controls for each.

So, learn how to write risk assessments and consider everything from trips, heavy loads and electric shocks to structural security and food hygiene.

Of course, it’s easy to blame the venue if something goes wrong – but it’ll still reflect very poorly on you if you’ve failed to recognise and manage a risk.

Now you’re ready to get going, it’s time to show your business to the public (and encourage them to use your stellar event-planning services). Alongside traditional techniques such as leaflet drops and putting advertisements in your local paper, you’ll want to try the following…

Set up a website

Having a website is vital for any small business. It’s a place to explain everything you offer, show off your previous projects, list your pricing packages and display your contact details.

It’s also an opportunity to prove that, even though your business is new, you’re a professional who knows exactly what they’re doing. So you’ll need to make sure your site is sleek and professionally-designed, with no spelling mistakes (an erroneous, dated website is a surefire way to turn off potential clients).

Unless you’re a web designer yourself, you’ll want to go with one of the two options:

  • Hire a freelance web designer to build your site for you. The benefit of this is that you’ll have an expert to discuss ideas with, but you may find that your designer charges for any changes you’d like them to make in the future.
  • Use a website building platform . These are often low-cost, and will likely give you more control over your site and a clearer understanding of how it works. Wix , GoDaddy and Weebly are popular options.

Your website should be in-keeping with your branding and appealing to your target customer, and you should adopt SEO best practice to make sure it ranks well when people search Google for a local events business.

If you need a hand setting up a website, be sure to check out our review of the top 5 web design companies in London .

Tom Bourlet of brands Fizzbox.com , which offers group activities and experiences for any event, and stag and hen party organisers The Stag Company and Hen Heaven, says:

“It is important to understand what terms you are targeting, the competition you are up against and what you can afford to spend on PPC (pay-per-click).

“When starting a new business, you can’t rely on organic or direct traffic, therefore PPC will be pivotal, and there will be a turning point where it goes from experimentation to profitable. For this reason, you need to ensure you have the funding to put into the ads, while working on the SEO and UX of the website.”

Websites are a great way to attract and retain customers, as they allow you to build a larger audience base from across the UK.

Read our guide to the  top 7 website builders for small businesses , to learn more about the benefits and methods to making your own online page.

Use social media

Social media is massive and if you’re not on board with the digital world then you will fall flat on your face. Get a good digital marketing plan in place with social media leading the charge.

With social media, you can get the word out about your business for free, sharing details of your services, special offers and – with your clients’ permission – images of your events to give potential customers an idea of what you can deliver.

In particular, Pinterest can be a goldmine for party and events planners. The image-based platform centering on inspiration and idea-sharing, Pinterest is the place to find people looking for ‘inspo' for their next big bash – and show them what you can do.

You might also find Facebook's groups valuable. Brides-to-be, for example, are increasingly joining locally-focused Facebook groups in which they can discuss and recommend local caterers, boutiques, planning services and more. Try joining up to relevant groups and sharing a tailored special offer with members.

Of course, there's no point in spending energy and resources maximising your Pinterest and Facebook profiles if your target market don't spend a lot of time on them.

Instagram is integral to many businesses success, be sure to check out our extensive how to use Instagram for business guide for everything you need to know.

Send emails

Sending engaging marketing emails to both customers and those who have expressed an interest in your services is an excellent way to communicate with the public, sharing updates and special offers, encouraging engagement with your business and keeping interest high.

A CRM (customer relationship management) system will help to streamline this process by personalising emails to make customers more inclined to read them, automating email sends, collating customer data and more.

Attend fairs and exhibitions

Some events, such as weddings, often have regular fairs and trade shows where small businesses like suppliers and party planners can host a stall and show off their products and services to visitors.

This is a great way to get your service in front of the people who need it. Furthermore, chatting face-to-face with potential customers will give you a unique opportunity to explain what you can offer to them specifically. Plus, they’re more likely to remember you if they’ve had a friendly and promising conversation with you.

Make sure, though, that you have professional business cards and leaflets printed so you can give them something to remember you by.

Try cross promotions

Seek out other small businesses in the events industry and see whether you can partner with them to create a promotional offer that you’ll both benefit from.

For example, a local independent caterers and offer a discount from both yours and the caterer’s prices to those who use your services and select that caterer.

As the old adage goes, it’s not what you know but who you know that counts. When it comes to events planning, what you know is obviously crucial – but you’ll also find having a portfolio of industry contacts very useful.

Of course, finding the right suppliers for each event will mean carefully considering your client’s wishes and budget. But building relationships with reliable suppliers will give you options right off the bat, saving you time – provided they fit the requirements.

If you’d like to plan weddings, for example, having contacts at catering companies, local venues, entertainment providers, et cetera will prove handy. If you’re specialising in corporate events, you may need to find contacts at banner printing companies, potential sponsors and more.

Here are a few ways to start building up that contacts book:

  • Visit online event supplier databases . Alive Network , for example, lists thousands of UK event entertainers and suppliers along with reviews and prices.
  • If your competitors run public events, see if you can attend them. Make a note of who they’ve used as a caterer, venue, equipment supplier etc. If any suppliers or sponsors are present, get talking to them and ask for their details.
  • Attend trade shows, seminars and exhibitions where suppliers will be showcasing their offerings. 
  • Join local events groups on social media , where professionals share details of the companies they’ve worked with. Be proactive, joining in with discussions and asking for opinions.
  • Use your personal network . Use LinkedIn to the full as well, make new connections daily and interact with them if only to simply introduce yourself.

As you build your network and liaise with suppliers and customers, you may want to consider getting a business mobile to separate your business dealings from personal calls (more information on our page on business mobile phone contracts .

What's next?

The party and events planning market is hugely competitive, but with the tips, tricks and tools in this guide, you’ll set yourself up with the best chance of success.

Want to get started on building your business now? The first step to opening any business is sourcing finance. O ur  free online comparison tool  can help you to compare the best business loan providers across the UK, and get refreshingly honest quotes for early-stage finance.

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How to Start a Wedding Planning Business: A Step-By-Step Guide

Robyn Parets

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

If you love love and have stellar organizational skills, you may have considered starting a business in the wedding industry. When it comes to how to start a wedding planning business, it pays to keep calm and carry on. In fact, these very qualities have helped generate a growing income stream for Eileen Kaden Dean, owner of a successful wedding planning business in the New York City and New Jersey area.

“To be successful in this business, you have to stay calm and realize that a wedding emergency isn't your emergency. You can’t make the stress about you because it’s not your day,” says Kaden Dean, owner of An Affair to Remember and a go-to wedding planner.

Kaden Dean, who opened her company more than a decade ago, is among the many small business owners who make up the nearly $60 billion wedding services industry in the U.S. The lucrative industry covers an array of wedding service providers, including wedding venues, apparel retailers, florists, photographers, and wedding planners, according to market research firm IBISWorld.

The average wedding in the U.S. cost over $44,000 in 2018, according to Brides.com. Wedding costs vary greatly depending on where you live and your budget, but Manhattan is the most expensive place to get married, with the average couple spending a whopping $96,910 according to The Knot.

Although websites like The Knot and WeddingWire make it easier for couples to plan their big day themselves, many still turn to professionals like Kaden Dean. An Affair to Remember helps plan the wedding, deals with vendors, and coordinates the chain of events at the wedding and reception to make sure the day goes off without a hitch. In a nutshell, wedding planners are in the business of creating happiness and keeping everything organized, so the couple doesn’t have to worry about all the little (and big) things, says Kaden Dean.

If you're wondering how to start a wedding planning business, know that there are many moving parts, from picking out a bridal dress and venue to choosing invitations, to hiring a band or DJ, to selecting a menu. And the list goes on. Even small weddings—in vogue right now—aren't as simple to plan as you might think.

“There’s a need for wedding planners as couples are busy doing other things, like looking to buy a house and working long hours in their careers. Having someone to manage things is attractive, and this way couples can enjoy themselves and be present on their wedding day,” says Kaden Dean.

how do i start my own event planning business

How to start a wedding planning business in 7 steps

There are a ton of different ways you can learn how to start a wedding planning business, but we'll give you a few steps to help you get your business started.

Step 1: Choose the type of wedding business you want to start and a name

Before you can do much else, you need to decide what kind of services you want your wedding planning business to offer. Wedding planners can offer all types of different services, and you should pick which ones you'll offer before you get to the nitty-gritty of planning your business and setting it up. You should also choose a business name during this step, and check with your state's Secretary of State resources to make sure that the name you want is available. You can usually do this using an online database on their website.

Kaden Dean started her wedding planning business out of a bridal dress store in New Jersey and expanded it from there. Her business offers everything from the full package to smaller day-of planning.

Although her clientele is in the greater New York area, Kaden Dean recognizes that not all couples can afford to spend upward of $50,000 on their weddings, which is part of the reason she offers several packages. Deciding what types of services and packages your own wedding planning business will offer will be important as you plan the business, market your services, and meet with potential clients.

For context, An Affair to Remember offers three pricing packages:

1. Full planning

For this most expensive option, Kaden Dean will plan the entire event from soup to nuts. This includes helping couples find the perfect venue, lining up all the vendors, helping choose invitations and centerpieces, and just about everything else. “Sometimes I even help pick the colors of the ties.”

The cost: about $5,000 and up.

2. Day of the wedding

This least expensive option is ideal for couples who want to do the planning themselves, but need some organizational help on the day of the wedding. For a typical wedding where Kaden Dean is hired for the day only, she creates a minute-to-minute timeline of when events will happen, like the hour the flowers will be delivered to the site and the exact time when the bridesmaids will arrive. On the big day, Kaden Dean is there to ensure that all goes according to plan.

She also handles any snafus. “One time a couple in the wedding party left a diaper bag in a taxi with their passports in it.” She went to work and tracked down the diaper bag, so that the couple could participate in the wedding stress-free. An hour later, the bag arrived at the venue.

The cost: about $1,750 to $2,250. The exact pricing depends on the amount of time Kaden Dean puts in, the number of assistants hired, and so on.

3. Day of “plus”

This is An Affair to Remember’s most popular offering. Couples hiring Kaden Dean for this package will plan their own weddings but rely on her to handle events on the wedding day, as well as any last-minute planning issues. “I take everything they have, shake it out, and see what pockets are missing to make sure everything is cohesive.” This package usually entails five hours of consultation time, 12 hours on the day of the wedding, one hour for the rehearsal, and 15 hours of virtual legwork to put all the ducks in a row.

The cost: about $2,500 to $3,000.

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

Step 2: Choose a business entity

The next step in starting a wedding planning business is deciding how you'll structure your business for legal and tax purposes. You'll likely want to choose a business entity that protects you personally from any legal ramifications your wedding planning business might face. A great option for this would be to choose a limited liability company (LLC) as your business entity. An LLC is a registered business in which owners are not personally liable for the business's debts or obligations. You might also choose a limited liability partnership if you want to have a business partner but the protections an LLC can offer you. Once you choose a business entity you can move on to step 3 which is writing your business plan.

You'll also want to register the business with the state once you have the entity and name decided on. Now would be a great time to consult a business attorney familiar with your type of business who can help you make sure everything is up to par and that you aren't missing any steps. This person can also help you choose which business entity is best for your wedding planning business.

Step 3: Write a detailed business plan

If you're starting a wedding planning business, hopefully, you're already a good planner and this step should come naturally to you. You'll need to write a business plan before you can get your business up and running. You can use a business plan template or business plan software to make the process easier, but there are some specific things you should be sure to include in it, no matter how you write it.

You should include a summary of your business in the plan as well as a market analysis, a detailed list of the products and services you'll offer, your marketing and sales plan, your financial plan and projections, and more. Think of your business plan for a roadmap that will lead you through the early stages of building your business and making it profitable.

Your business plan should also include some of the vendors and any other businesses you plan on working with. During the first year of starting her business, Kaden Dean focused on developing such relationships. “It was a challenging first year, but I spent the time introducing myself to the local wedding vendors so I could find people to recommend and work with. I set the groundwork for my business and established myself.”

An Affair to Remember’s start-up costs the first year maxed out at $10,000, including the rent and furniture for the small space in the bridal shop, along with signage, business cards and brochures, a website, and advertising on WeddingWire. Kaden Dean also had to pay to attend bridal shows, hire an assistant to help her track advertising inquiries, and cover her childcare costs. The costs Kaden Dean had are the kind you should plan to face and include in the financial section of your business plan.

Step 4: Get an EIN

If you plan to hire employees to help run your wedding planning business, you'll need to obtain an EIN, also known as an employer identification number. However, even if your business is a one-person show at the moment, you'll likely want to get an employer identification number for your business to make things easier on yourself down the line. The good news is that it's fairly easy to apply for an employer identification number and you can apply online through the IRS' website and get one in a matter of minutes.

An EIN comes with a number of benefits and can be extremely helpful for your business. It can help you when it comes time to file your business taxes, get a business credit card, open a business bank account, or any other number of business necessities.

Step 5: Get a business bank account and business credit card

Now that you have an EIN, you'll use this number when applying to open a business checking account and business credit card . This next step of starting a wedding planning business is crucial, as you'll want to keep your business finances separate from your personal finances. When you're still working on setting up your wedding planning business maybe you'll be working out of your house as a home-based business or maybe you'll have a small storefront. Either way, you'll probably want to spend on some decor, or at least on some marketing products, and you'll likely want a credit card to use for that.

Keeping the business finances completely separate from your personal finances will be huge when it comes time to file your taxes and it will help you boost your business credit score as well.

Step 6: Get any funding you need

The next step in starting a wedding planning business? Funding your new venture. The startup costs associated with opening a wedding planning business don't have to be too high, especially if you're working out of your home or another business's space. However, you will still have some upfront expenses you may not have the savings to cover. In that case, this is the time when you might need to work on getting a business loan or other funding option.

And because you have a great business plan already, you can use that to show potential investors or lenders that you have a well thought out business and a plan for turning a profit quickly. Of course, getting a loan as a new business isn't always easy. If you're finding your options to be limited, you might turn to a 0% introductory APR business credit card as an interest-free loan of sorts. With this type of credit card, you won't pay any interest on the balance you carry over for the length of the introductory offer (this will depend on the card, but at most will be 12 months). Just make sure you have a plan to pay off your balance by the end of this intro period, when a variable APR will set in, or this won't be the most effective funding tool.

Step 7: Market your services and start doing business

Once your wedding planning business is up and running and have the services you're offering laid out, you can start marketing them and hopefully bringing on new business. Consider marketing at trade shows and with any bridal boutiques in your area, or forge relationships with wedding venues to find clients. Once you get your first client, you're off to the races and can consider yourself fully in business.

The brides and grooms you work with will be grateful for your services and you can help them make their special day as stress-free as possible.

"Hiring a planner is so important to your big day," says Kaden Dean. The last thing a bride needs is for someone else to show up to handle the details: “They trust me. When you hire me, you get me. I’ve never missed a wedding.”

And keep in mind, happy customers can provide referrals and word-of-mouth marketing that can give you business the boost it needs to take off.

ZenBusiness

Start Your Dream Business

The bottom line

If you want to survive and thrive in the wedding planning business, you’ve got to put on a happy face and mean it—all the time. Also, you’ve got to be nice—all the time, says Kaden Dean.

It might seem like a simple recipe for success, but if you do a great job and you’re happy and people know it, the referrals will flow and you’ll stay busy, she says.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

On a similar note...

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How to Start a Party Planning Business

Last Updated: January 12, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Rachel Weinshanker . Rachel Weinshanker is a Certified Event and Wedding Planner and the Owner of San Diego Life Events, an award-winning wedding and event planning business based in San Diego, California. Rachel has over eight years of event planning experience, and her work has been featured in many notable publications. San Diego Life Events has been awarded the Wedding Wire Couple's Choice Award in 2018, 2019, and 2020. Rachel is a graduate from San Diego State University. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 15 testimonials and 83% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 237,875 times.

A party planning business can be a fulfilling and profitable opportunity for someone who is social, organized, detail-oriented, and has a flair for entertaining and coordinating events. Unlike other startups, a party planning business does not require much capital or dedicated space. However, figuring out how to start a party planning business does require some basic steps that are similar to all home based ventures, as well as those that are unique to the field.

Starting Out

Step 1 Choose a name for your business.

  • Search online and use the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's trademark search tool (or your country's equivalent) to check potential names against existing trademarks. [1] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Small Business Administration U.S. government agency focused on supporting small businesses Go to source
  • You will may need to register your company as a "Doing Business As" name with your state or county government. Consult local business laws to find out. [2] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Small Business Administration U.S. government agency focused on supporting small businesses Go to source

Step 2 Register your new business if necessary.

  • Double-check with your state and local government before you start doing any business. You could run into legal trouble if you aren’t properly registered.

Step 3 Set up your office.

  • You may choose to rent out a permanent office space or a temporary meeting room when seeing clients.
  • Many professionals who work from home see clients in public spaces, such as a coffee shop or restaurant. [3] X Research source

Step 4 Set yourself apart from your competition.

  • Early on, take as many jobs as you can. This will help you establish a reputation as a great planner, which is a great way to set yourself apart!

Step 5 Price your services properly.

  • Look at how your competition prices their services to get a good sense for the range in your area.
  • How much experience do you have? A planner with previous professional party planning experience will command a higher rate than an unseasoned planner.
  • To attract clients, you may have to start out low and gradually raise your prices over time as you gain a positive reputation.
  • Most planners will charge a 15% commission per vendor. For example, if you find and hire the florist, you could charge 15% of their cost as a fee. [4] X Research source

Step 6 Be flexible and prepare for the unexpected.

  • This is especially important when planning outdoor events. Always have a backup plan for inclement weather!

Making a Plan for Your Business

Step 1 Figure out what kind of party planner you would like to be.

  • The two most popular types of party planner are corporate and social. Corporate party planners organize events for companies, while social planners focus on weddings, birthday parties, etc.
  • Many party planners pick a niche based on what they enjoy the most. This can be a specific type of event or a unique style you offer.
  • Most party planners either focus exclusively on children’s parties or only offer services for adult parties. [6] X Research source

Step 2 Consider your education and background.

  • Study your local competition. If there’s something you can do that they can’t, you can gain a big competitive advantage!
  • Establish relationships with local caterers, suppliers, entertainers, and venue owners. It will be your job to organize and coordinate these disparate elements to create a memorable event.

Step 5 Write a business...

  • Using your market research, determine the rates you will charge for your services. Don’t undercharge, but aim to set competitive rates.
  • Estimate your startup costs and secure funding. If you can’t fund the business yourself, you may need to take out a small loan or find investors. [12] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Small Business Administration U.S. government agency focused on supporting small businesses Go to source

Growing Your Business

Step 1 Market your business effectively.

  • Make sure your website is aesthetically pleasing and easy to navigate. Try to have your company's name and contact information written clearly on each page.
  • Create flyers that show off your graphic design skills. Distribute them door to door and ask local businesses to display them on their corkboard.
  • Tell family and friends about your new business and ask you to recommend you to anyone they know who is looking for a party planner.

Step 2 Have a strong social media presence.

  • Actively and directly engaging with customers will show them that you care. Respond to folks when they comment on your posts or ask questions.
  • Use hashtags to target specific areas or holidays. For example, if you want to advertise your services for a Halloween party in Chicago, you could use #HalloweenCHI.
  • Showcase your talents by uploading photos and videos of successful parties you have planned. Be sure to always obtain express written permission from your clients if they are featured in them.

Step 3 Solicit reviews from your clients.

  • Register (or claim) your accounts on the applicable review sites that people use in your area.
  • Address any concerns or negative reviews honestly and maturely. Remember, these posts may be a first impression for potential future clients.

Step 4 Volunteer your services.

  • Always be on the lookout to make contact with new vendors the area. You never know when a client may request a specific type of food or performer.
  • Attend event planning trade shows to meet other planners and service providers.
  • Trade shows are also an opportunity to learn about new trends and developments in the industry.

Expert Q&A

Rachel Weinshanker

Video . By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube.

  • While most party planners handle administrative duties themselves, if your business takes off you may choose to hire an assistant. Even though event planning is an extremely low-risk job, you will likely need to purchase workers' compensation insurance. Check your local laws. [13] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Make sure to have some experience planning parties casually before you commit to starting a business. Not everyone is suited for this surprisingly stressful occupation. Unless you're very talented, it can be difficult to make party planning a career. Know what you're getting into before investing the time and money to create a company. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

how do i start my own event planning business

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Start a Small Business

  • ↑ https://www.sba.gov/content/how-name-business
  • ↑ https://www.sba.gov/content/register-your-fictitious-or-doing-business-dba-name
  • ↑ http://www.businessknowhow.com/homeoffice/clientmeetings.htm
  • ↑ http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/233684
  • ↑ [v161267_b02]. 11 February 2020.
  • ↑ http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/37892
  • ↑ http://www.besthospitalitydegrees.com/faq/what-kind-of-degree-is-helpful-to-become-an-event-planner
  • ↑ http://www.mpiweb.org/ProfessionalDevelopment
  • ↑ http://learningpath.org/articles/Becoming_a_Party_Planner_Job_Description_Salary_Information.html
  • ↑ https://www.sba.gov/content/what-state-licenses-and-permits-does-your-business-need
  • ↑ https://www.sba.gov/content/company-description
  • ↑ https://www.sba.gov/content/funding-request
  • ↑ http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/79594

About This Article

Rachel Weinshanker

To start a party planning business, start by figuring out what kind of clients and events you’d like to focus on. Additionally, do some research on the party planning industry where you live so you can think about how to set yourself apart. Next, write a business plan detailing exactly what niche you plan to fill and how you plan to accomplish this. Then, pick an unambiguous name for your business that lets potential clients know exactly what type of services you provide. You'll also want to check your state's laws to find out if you need to register your business. To learn how to market your new business on social media sites, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How To Start An Event Planning Business

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how do i start my own event planning business

If you have a passion for logistics and organization, and the ability to network and promote yourself effectively, you may have a future in the event planning industry.

You don’t need any special training or education. Although if you have a degree in hospitality, event planning or tourism, it can add weight to your credentials. You can also get certified as a special events or meeting planner, as well as read books to get a handle on event planning basics.

It will help if you enjoy thinking creatively to create a desired ambiance or impression, liaise and negotiate with suppliers, solve problems and work with a budget. If you have the time management, marketing, and organizational skills for event planning, you can start up the business with relatively little capital and equipment.

How Big Is The Event Planning Industry?

how do i start my own event planning business

Entrepreneur reports that people around the globe spend $500 billion every year on special events.

Why Starting An Event Planning Business Now Is A Good Idea 

how do i start my own event planning business

There are no shortage of birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, weddings, graduations, parades, fairs, conferences, meetings, product launches, political rallies, fashion shows, memorials and civic events in need of a savvy planner to oversee the logistics, organization and myriad details that go into making an event run smoothly. More and more businesses are hiring outside services to plan their events. The profit margins for event planners have risen from 15 to around 40 percent in the last few years.

Event Planning Business Facts

how do i start my own event planning business

Here are some facts and figures about the event planning business you should consider:

Event Planning Business Startup Costs

Rent: $0 – $2,300

Equipment: $5,000 – $17,000

Inventory: $0 – $500

Licenses and Taxes: $250 – $350

Communications: $100 – $250

Payroll: $0 – $4,000

Advertising & Promotion: $500 – $2,000

Legal Fees & Accounting: $650 – $1,500

1 st Quarter Insurance: $800 – $1,500

Miscellaneous: $750 – $1,500

Total Startup Cost: $8,050 – $31,110

 how much do event planners make.

An event planning service can gross between $85,000 to $250,000 per year depending on the structure of the business.

How much do event planners charge?

The size and complexity of events vary widely, so generally event planners calculate the cost of all the materials and services for any given event and then tack on a 10 to 20 percent markup as a service fee.

How do event planners find customers?

Social media and networking in the community, yellow pages, and a professional business web page. Your target markets include hotels, resorts, non-profits, conventions, country clubs, theme parks as well as brides, Fortune 500 companies, universities, and colleges.

how do i start my own event planning business

What skills are required?

Creativity, communication, organizational and time management skills, passion for budgeting, planning and negotiating, ability to network and coordinate with suppliers and service providers for an event, a cool head under pressure, and ability to think and solve problems on the go.

What do I need to operate an event planning business?

Computer, printer, telephone, fax machine, business license, a basic stock of common party supplies, a truck or a van, social media accounts for the business, a professional website and a portfolio of your work.

Event Planning  Business Ideas

Effective promotion is the key to your success and social media is gold when it comes to promoting your event planning business and landing event contracts. Use it for more than promotion, though. If you leverage your social media presence as a way to make connections and build a solid following, people are more likely to think of you and give you a call when they have an event to plan.

When you first start out in event planning, specialize on one type of event and master it. Charity balls, proms, and corporate galas are the spectacular end of the spectrum while meetings and conventions fall on the comparatively simple and straightforward end of the spectrum. Don’t try to do it all at once. On the other hand, seasoned event planner Liz King says diversification of services is important to the success of a small company. Add services one at a time as you gain experience.

how do i start my own event planning business

Are catering services included?

Offering outdoor/indoor venue options.

Struggling with what to name your event planning business? Here are a few ideas:

Related Content

Event Planning by Judy Allen

Top Magazines and Publications for Event Planners

Special Events.com

Event Manager Blog

Top 15 Event Planning Blogs, Are You Following Them?

Entrepreneur: How to Start an Event Planning Service

Event Manager Blog: How to Start an Event Planning Business from Home

The Work at Home Woman: Event Planning

Small Biz Trends: How to Start an Event Planning Business

Small Biz Trends: 42 Tips For Producing A Memorable Small Business Event

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COMMENTS

  1. Your Step-by-Step Guide to Starting an Event Planning Service

    Sending invitations to potential attendees. Planning transportation for attendees to and from the event. Arranging any other necessary accommodations, like seating. Coordinating activities for...

  2. How to Start an Event Planning Business: 8 Vital Steps

    Ready to roll? Here's how to make the leap into starting your own event planning business. 1. Establish your event planning business There's no requirement for a certification or license to become an event planner in the US.

  3. How to Start an Event Planning Business in 2024: Step-by-Step Guide

    Build a Core Team Marketing to Spread the Word 1. Conduct Industry and Market Research All businesses have competition - that's what keeps the market in balance.So it is necessary to conduct thorough research of the market to identify your competitors and the current trends.

  4. How to Start an Event Planning Business in 8 Steps in 2023

    2. Create a Business Plan Once you know who you'll be planning events for, it's time to put together your business plan. This all-encompassing document creates a roadmap for your business, setting out where you want your business to go and how you intend on getting there.

  5. How To Start an Event Planning Business in 7 Steps

    1. Gain relevant experience Spending time working in the event planning industry, either on a paid or unpaid basis, is a valuable prerequisite for starting your own event planning business. You can use this time to learn about industry trends and prices, identify best practices, hone your skills and learn about customer preferences.

  6. 6 To-Dos Before Starting an Event Planning Business

    1. Build a solid business plan I can't tell you how many small event planning businesses fail because the founder didn't put together a business plan in advance. Start by researching successful plans and businesses that are similar to your scope of work. Then reach out to others in the events industry who may be able to guide you!

  7. How to Start an Event Management Business: The Guide

    Step 1: Determine if it's a good fit. Like most jobs, your skill set and personality will largely determine your success in this field. And while you don't need to check off all the qualities on this list, here are some things to consider before you start an event management business:

  8. How to Start a Profitable Event Planning Business [11 Steps]

    1. Perform market analysis. 2. Draft a event planning business plan. 3. Develop a event planning brand. 4. Formalize your business registration. 5. Acquire necessary licenses and permits for event planning. 6. Open a business bank account and secure funding as needed. 7. Set pricing for event planning services. 8.

  9. How to start an event planning business in 8 steps

    1) Evaluate your event planning skillset It's common for event planning newbies to believe the business is all about showmanship, champagne, and shindigs. While that's the final product of your meticulous preparation, things behind the scenes are much less spectacular.

  10. The Ultimate Guide on How to Start Your Event Planning Business

    Establish your expertise If you want people to trust you with their events, you need to demonstrate you know what you're doing. Outside of an undergraduate degree in hospitality, you can enroll in various certification programs that will help bulk up your expertise and let your clients know they're in knowledgeable hands.

  11. The Event Planning Startup Kit: Everything You Need to Start an Event

    Opting for one app to do it (almost) all will save you time, money, and mental energy. Glide is a no-code app platform that lets you build powerful custom apps for your event planning business in minutes. With Glide, you can track budgets, manage all your projects, organize clients and vendors, and so much more.

  12. How to Start an Event Planning Business

    STEP 1: Plan your business A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are: What will you name your business? What are the startup and ongoing costs? Who is your target market? How much can you charge customers?

  13. Start an Event Planning Business In 7 Steps

    1. Research and market analysis The first step is to have a clear picture of the market landscape. Your goal? Uncover opportunities and threats, so you can position your business effectively. Here's how you can approach it, step by step: Identify your competitors: Who's already out there? What services do they offer, and at what price points?

  14. How to start an event planning business

    Step 3: Write a business plan. Writing a business plan is the next step to start a party planning business. Your business plan is a detailed guide outlining your business structure, what it offers, how it operates, its long- and short-term goals, and some crucial financial information. Your business plan will not only help your business grow ...

  15. How to Start an Event Planning Business

    The detail and scope of your business plan depends on how you are going to finance your business. If you are self-funding, your business plan can be simplified. If you need startup capital, you will need a lot more detail on every aspect of your event planning business. Business plans work a lot like event business plans. You will need to ...

  16. How to Start an Event Planning Business

    If you want to start an event planning business, you'll need a few core building blocks. First, you'll need professional event planning training or industry experience. Second, you'll need a bit of collateral to get your company off the ground (luckily an event planning business can launch for a very low cost).

  17. The Do's and Don'ts When Starting an Event Planning Business

    Create a Detailed Business Plan. A business plan is an essential first step to creating your event planning business. It serves as the ultimate guide for your business and can be used to communicate your goals to investors. A business plan includes the operational plan, financial plan, and overall objective of your business.

  18. How to start a party and event planning business

    Creating a Website Get Started This article will cover: Case Study: Above & Beyond Solutions Define your event planning business idea Conduct market research Come up with an event company name Branding Develop your business plan Come up with a pricing strategy Understand the requirements Start promoting your event planning start-up

  19. How to Start a Wedding Planning Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

    6. Create your own wedding planning brand 7. Find trusted vendors 8. Create wedding concepts 9. Promote your wedding planning business Why you should start your own wedding planning business Risks wedding planners should be aware of Becoming a wedding planner Zyro - the easiest way to build a website TRY FOR FREE

  20. How to Start a Wedding Planning Business

    Step 3: Write a detailed business plan. If you're starting a wedding planning business, hopefully, you're already a good planner and this step should come naturally to you. You'll need to write a ...

  21. How to Start a Party Planning Business with Little to No Money

    Put money into your marketing: Let more people know about your parties, and you sell more tickets. Sell more tickets, and you have more money to put into your marketing. It's a virtuous cycle. Lock in the next event: Competition for venues can be intense. Use your earnings to put a down payment on your dream venue for next year so you can ...

  22. How to Start a Party Planning Business (with Pictures)

    1 Choose a name for your business. Pick an unambiguous name that will tell potential clients exactly what your company does. It could be something as simple as " [City Name] Formal Event Planners." Try to find a name with a simple available web address.

  23. How To Start An Event Planning Business

    Event Planning Business Facts. Here are some facts and figures about the event planning business you should consider: Event Planning Business Startup Costs. Rent: $0 - $2,300. Equipment: $5,000 - $17,000. Inventory: $0 - $500. Licenses and Taxes: $250 - $350. Communications: $100 - $250. Payroll: $0 - $4,000. Advertising & Promotion ...

  24. How to Create an Event Website in 2024

    Here are a few tips for choosing the right template for your event's target audience: Reflect on your event's theme. Whether it's professional, casual, artistic, or tech-focused, select a template that aligns with your event's theme and atmosphere. Consider your audience. Think about the demographics and preferences of your target audience.

  25. PDF Guide to Starting a Business in Nevada

    If your business is already licensed and based in another state, you must still license your out-of-state business with the State of Nevada if you want to operate in Nevada. Use the SilverFlume link below to get started. You may also need to license your business in every Nevada city and/or county where it will operate.