Planning Is Key
Even though there is a fun factor in the event planning business, it requires exceptional attention to detail, along with planning, planning, and more planning. An event planner's mantra includes the phrase "no detail is too small." Contingency planning is essential in order to ensure that if anything fails, there is always a backup plan.
Scheduling is also a critical component. Creating production schedules that have realistic deadlines along with enough padding for the unexpected can save the day for any event planner. There are many calendar and project management applications available, and you'll want to find one that meets your criteria. Consistently creating high-quality events that run on time and within budget will be the cornerstone of your success.
If you master the planning and scheduling and throw in a heavy dose of originality, your flawless "without-a-hitch" events will inevitably generate new business.
The Right Stuff
While no special licenses or education are required to call yourself an event manager, the education and training that go along with certification in this field are invaluable. In addition, obtaining your Certified Special Events Professional (CESP), Certified Trade Show Manager (CTSM), or Certified Meeting Planner MP (CMP) certifications will not only set you apart from the competition, but they may also be a necessity if you want to pursue corporate clients. Some corporations will only hire planners who are certified in one or more of those areas.
A Real Business
Event planning is a real business and you will improve your chances for success if you follow all the steps to create a robust Business Plan and secure a line of credit or financing. One of your indispensable decisions will be whether you want to plan social events or corporate events, because that decision will impact how you price your services, how much financing you need, and the lead times on your events.
You may also want to cover your bases with professional documentation. Presenting your clients with a professionally drafted contract for their event will help you create and maintain a professional image. We provide customizable Services Contract that you may find helpful as you start your event planning business.
Ready to Party
When you are ready to open for business, you'll be able to start with confidence when you know you've taken all the right steps to set up a real business that complies with federal and state requirements. We've made this step easy for you with our online incorporation tool that provides you with professionally drafted documents and a streamlined submission process. Once you've followed all these steps, you're ready to get the party started for all your long-awaited clients.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Rocket Lawyer is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.
