WEDDING PLANNER

1.

Explore the different areas of event planning and choose types of events that interest you. Determine whether
you plan on working alone, or becoming affiliated with a venue to plan events solely for their location.
Research event planning certifications, such as becoming a certified wedding planner if you choose to plan
events in the wedding industry. Visit as many events as you can and take notes, paying special attention to the
detail put forth by the planner.

2.

Name your wedding and event planning business. If you choose a name that is not your own legal name, you
will need to register a business name and pay a fee to use this new name for your business. The fee amount
will vary depending on what state your company is located in. Your secretary of state office will have name
registration forms available on the website or in the local office.

3.

Seek professional advice to build your business legally. Consult with a lawyer to draw up contracts to use
between you and your clients. Because event planning can be an emotional activity, you will want the client to
sign a contract to ensure that you still get paid if they decide to bail on the project. Speak with an accountant if
you need assistance with bookkeeping or have questions about filing taxes for your business.

4.

Write a simple business plan to maintain the focus of your business. List important aspects of your business,
such as how much you will charge for your services, who your competitors are and what sets your business
apart from theirs that will make clients want to choose you. Include financial analysis to determine how long it
will take you to break even and start making money for your business, and what areas you will need to re-
invest in to make better. Sample business plans are available on the Small Business Administration website.

5.

Promote your wedding and event planning business. Sign up for a booth at all local trade shows and business
events to promote your new business to others. Set up a website and start a social media campaign to get the
word out to potential clients so that they can read about your services at their own convenience. Advertise in
the local paper, phone book and hand out business cards to everyone you meet. Network with wedding and
event vendors in your area to see if you can work out special pricing for client referrals. Offer to plan an event
for a local organization, such as a charity or church event, for free to get your name in front of others.

Things Needed
 Computer
 Word processing software
 Printer
 Cellular phone
 Planner with calendar