How to become an event planner

How to become an event planner

Updated January 2020

If you want to learn about becoming an event planner, then you've come to the right place!

What's an event planner?

First things first, just what does an event planner do? While the responsibilities of an event planner will vary from event to event, they will generally include some, or even all of the following:

1. Learning about the client’s event

Details of the event will include the type of event, e.g. a birthday party, date, venue, the client’s vision for the event, and of course budget!

2. Agreeing services to be provided

This can vary from having full responsibility for an event, from conception to delivery, to working with a number of other event planners on a single event.

3. Organising agreed services

You can take on responsibility yourself, collaborate with other event planners, or even sub-hire.

4. Communicating with the client

Keeping the lines of communication open is important to gain the client’s trust and receive feedback.

5. On the day setup

Once everything’s been organised, the only thing left is setup on the day.

What type of events does an event planner organise?

The list of events clients' are looking to organise is almost endless! Typical events include:

  • Birthdays
  • Baby Showers
  • Engagements
  • Weddings
  • Christenings

What skills does an event planner need?

There are many skills you will need to hone as an event planner. Here are some of the important ones:

  • Creativity: clients will rely on you for ideas and inspiration for their special day
  • Organisation: you will need to manage multiple clients and events at various stages of progression
  • Communication: everyone needs to be signing from the same hymn sheet to ensure client satisfaction
  • Team work: having good relationships with clients, collaborators and sub-hires is essential to having a business that runs smoothly

What’s it like being an event planner?

There are many benefits to being an event planner which make the job fun and fulfilling:

  • Having the opportunity to unleash your creativity
  • Being your own boss
  • Meeting lots of interesting people
  • The elation that comes with a satisfied client!

Things are not always smooth sailing, though we wish they would be! Some of the drawbacks include:

  • Working weekends a lot of the time
  • An overflowing house!
  • Challenging clients

How to get started as an event planner?

So if you’re ready to take the plunge, here are the steps to get started as an event planner:

1. Choose an event type

Step one is to decide on the type of event you’re passionate about organising. We’d recommend starting with a small event, such as a child's birthday, before tackling a wedding!

2. Select an event concept

For a birthday party this could be a book theme, such as Alice In Wonderland, or a colour scheme based on the child's gender for a baby shower.

Getting ideas is incredibly easy with Instagram, be sure to check out Find My Event Planner’s Instagram for event inspiration!

3. Source event supplies

We wouldn’t recommend buying expensive props to start with; you want to keep costs to a minimum. You can get started by renting props, you even find Event Hire right here on Find My Event Planner.

4. Showcase your event skills

You can start with an event for yourself, or for friends and family. This is a great opportunity to test the waters, gain valuable feedback, and start building a photo portfolio.

Offering your services for free to a charity event is a good next step. You will gain greater exposure and have the opportunity to network with fellow event planners.

5. Social media, social media and social media!

Social media is your best friend when it comes to finding clients! Ensure you take high quality pictures and start posting on all social media channels, such as Instagram and Pinterest. Instagram in particular is great for landing clients.

If you don’t know where to start with social media, Contact Us to get details on our Social Media for Event Planners crash course.

How much can an event planner earn?

This will vary greatly depending on country, event type, number of guests etc. The best way to get an accurate figure is to develop a concept, and then contact local event planners for quotes. Some event planners provide a price list on their website.

Where can I learn more about becoming an event planner?

If you’re ready to get started on your journey and need some extra help, you can enrol on Find My Event Planner’s Starting an Event Planning Business course. Please Contact Us for further details.