How to Become an Event Planner

(Find Out More and/or Enrol for this Accredited Course)

Do you like attending various types of events? Would you like to have a job that seems more like a party, that is both fun and rewarding than the regular 9 to 5 grind? If this describes you, then you may be interested in a career as an event planner.

Although there are not any formal requirements to begin a career as an event planner, education is key to gaining both the necessary knowledge to carry out your duties as well as proving credibility with potential clients. Event planners organise various events both small and large that enable them to enjoy a fast paced, fun, high-paying career. Many jobs are monotonous, having the same duties from day to day, however, as an event planner there is never a dull moment, your job would be different each day as you plan different events and interact with new clients.

Types of events an event planner may organise and coordinate include, but are not limited to, small events such as, employee recognition events, meetings, award ceremonies, grand openings, sporting events, conferences, book launches and signings, as well as various shows and festivals. Larger events may include parades, New Year’s festivities, charity fundraisers, fairs, fashion shows, film festivals, political rallies as well as other large-scale events and exhibitions.

Formal education to become an event planner will prepare you for a career in this exciting and rewarding field. You should look for a course which will teach you how to set goals and objectives, solicit and consult with clients, book various types of events, theme creation, creativity, and guest list management. You should also learn organisational skills, which will help you with scheduling, budgeting, having a contingency plan in the event should something go wrong, and rehearsals. Course material should cover the different types of events one may be hired to organise and coordinate, in addition to various venues of where to hold the events, how to inspect and confirm those venues as well as how to market the event for maximum exposure and attendance.

Another aspect of course study you should look for should cover the importance of vendor relationships. You should look to learn how to find vendors, what type of vendors you need for various events, how to choose vendors and negotiate contracts as well as how to coordinate with them to get the best possible result.

Furthermore, you should learn how to get hired within the event industry as an employee as well as how to start your own business and all that being self-employed involves such as how to get started, start-up capital, legal issues, insurance, location, how to price events, how to get paid, and paying taxes.

An exciting career awaits you so why not get started today? Programs are available at local colleges and universities as well as online to best suit your budget, lifestyle, and the amount of time you have available to devote to course study. The most common types of programs offered for event planning include certificate programs, diplomas, advanced diplomas, associate's degree, and bachelor's degree. For on campus programs, consult your local community college or university for a list of available courses and curriculum however, if you need more flexibility and freedom in your studies look for appropriate online programs.