How to Become an Event Planner (Becoming the Bash Boss!)

If you’ve ever envisioned orchestrating spectacular events or contemplated what it takes to become an event planner, you’ve found your perfect resource.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to embark on your career as an event planner. We’ll discuss:

The skills you need.
The education that can propel you towards your goal.
How to land your first job as an event planner.

So, whether you’re an organization newbie or a seasoned planner looking to sharpen your skills, stay with us.

We’re about to unfold the master plan to become an event planner.

Let’s get started!

Contents show

Steps to Become an Event Planners

Step 1: Understand the Role and Responsibilities of an Event Planner

Before you dive into a career as an event planner, it’s important to understand what the job entails.

Event planners are responsible for every facet of events and meetings.

They plan everything from weddings and birthday parties to product launches and corporate meetings.

Responsibilities typically include finding and booking venues, coordinating with vendors (like caterers, florists, and DJs), arranging transportation and accommodation for guests, managing budgets, and attending to every detail to ensure the event runs smoothly.

Event planners often work with clients to identify their needs and expectations for the event, and then bring those visions to life.

An event planner should be highly organized, have excellent time management skills, and be able to handle stress well.

They often juggle multiple tasks at once and deal with tight deadlines.

Additionally, strong communication and interpersonal skills are crucial as they’ll be interacting with various people including clients, vendors, and event attendees.

Understanding these roles and responsibilities will help you decide if this career is the right fit for you, and what aspects you may need to focus on for your professional development.

Step 2: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Event Management or Related Fields

Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in event management, hospitality management, marketing, public relations, or any related field can equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge required to become a successful event planner.

These programs typically include courses in food service management, event promotion, budgeting, hospitality law and regulations, and event design.

During your studies, you will learn about various aspects of event planning such as venue selection, contract negotiations, marketing, and event evaluation.

Furthermore, these programs often include internships which provide you with practical experience in the field and can enhance your resume.

Remember, your education should not be confined to the classroom.

Attend events, trade fairs, and exhibitions to gain real-world understanding of event planning.

These experiences can provide valuable insights into the industry and can help you establish a network of contacts which can be beneficial once you begin your career as an event planner.

While a bachelor’s degree in a related field is generally preferred, it’s not always a necessity.

Some event planners start their careers without a formal education but with significant experience in the field.

However, having a degree can provide a competitive edge and open up more opportunities.

Step 3: Gain Practical Experience Through Internships or Part-Time Jobs

In the event planning industry, practical experience is invaluable.

Getting hands-on experience through internships or part-time jobs in the field is a critical step to hone your skills and learn the nitty-gritty of event planning.

Look for opportunities to intern with event planning companies, hospitality venues, non-profit organizations, or corporations that host numerous events.

Even part-time roles such as a banquet server or a promotional assistant can provide exposure to event management.

This is your chance to observe professionals in action, understand the workflow, learn about client interactions, and get a realistic idea of what the job entails.

From coordinating with vendors, choosing the event decor, managing guest lists, to troubleshooting on the day of the event, every experience is a learning opportunity.

Besides providing practical knowledge, these experiences can also help you build a network within the industry, which can be highly beneficial when you start your career as a professional event planner.

Moreover, having real-world event planning experience on your resume is a huge plus for potential employers.

During this phase, you can also determine the specific type of events you wish to specialize in, such as weddings, corporate events, or fundraisers.

This will allow you to target your skills and experiences towards that specialty.

Step 4: Develop Strong Organizational and Communication Skills

As an event planner, you will be coordinating various tasks at once, dealing with different vendors, managing budgets, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly.

To achieve this, you will need excellent organizational skills.

You can start to develop these skills in your daily life by taking on tasks that require careful planning and execution.

You can also take online courses or workshops that teach time management and organization.

In addition to organizational skills, communication skills are critical for an event planner.

You will be required to interact with clients, vendors, and team members on a regular basis.

Strong verbal and written communication skills will ensure that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities and that your events are executed flawlessly.

You can improve your communication skills by taking public speaking courses or by joining organizations that offer networking opportunities.

Active listening is another important aspect of communication for event planners.

You must be able to fully understand your clients’ vision and expectations for their event.

This requires careful listening and the ability to ask relevant questions.

Also, consider learning a second language.

As an event planner, you may find yourself working with international clients or vendors.

Being bilingual or multilingual can be a valuable asset.

Step 5: Learn Event Planning Software and Technologies

In the ever-evolving world of event planning, it is essential to stay updated with the latest software and technologies.

There are numerous event planning tools and platforms that can simplify the process, help you stay organized, and increase efficiency.

These include event registration and ticketing software, event management platforms, event marketing tools, and even virtual reality technologies for virtual events.

For starters, familiarize yourself with platforms like Eventbrite, Meetup, and Cvent, which offer solutions for ticketing, attendee tracking, and event promotion.

These tools will help you manage your event logistics efficiently.

Also, learn to use project management tools like Asana, Trello, or Monday.

These will assist you in keeping track of tasks, deadlines, and team collaboration.

In the current digital era, it is equally important to be familiar with social media platforms as they are powerful tools for event marketing and engaging with attendees.

Understanding how to use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn for event promotion is beneficial.

Lastly, as virtual and hybrid events are becoming more popular, tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and WebEx are a must-know.

Also, consider getting to grips with more advanced platforms that offer comprehensive solutions for virtual events, like Hopin, Whova, or Socio.

By mastering these technologies, you can enhance your marketability as an event planner and stay ahead in the competitive industry.

It’s not necessary to become an expert overnight, but continuous learning and adapting to new technologies is key in this role.

Step 6: Network with Suppliers, Vendors, and Professionals in the Field

As an event planner, a substantial part of your job involves coordinating with various suppliers and vendors like caterers, decorators, entertainers, etc.

It’s crucial to establish strong relationships with these key individuals who can help ensure the success of the events you plan.

Start attending industry events, trade shows, and conferences, which can be a great way to meet these suppliers and vendors, as well as other experienced event planners.

Also, consider joining professional organizations related to event planning, such as the Meeting Professionals International (MPI) or the International Live Events Association (ILEA).

These organizations often host networking events, workshops, and seminars, and provide platforms to connect with experts in the field.

Networking will not only help you find reliable suppliers and vendors, but it can also lead to client referrals.

As you meet more people within the industry, you get to know different perspectives, learn new trends, and establish your presence in the event planning community.

Moreover, having a wide professional network can often help you in situations where you need last-minute backup plans or replacements.

Additionally, you can utilize social media platforms such as LinkedIn to connect with professionals in the event planning industry from all around the world.

This can give you a broader understanding of the industry and keep you updated with the latest trends and technologies in event planning.

Remember, in the event planning business, your network is your net worth.

So, invest your time and effort into building and maintaining a diverse and robust professional network.

Step 7: Obtain Certification in Event Planning (Optional)

Although it’s not mandatory, obtaining a certification in event planning could be an important step in your career as an event planner.

There are various certifications available that can not only increase your credibility, but also showcase your commitment to the profession and help you stay updated with the latest trends in the industry.

One popular certification to consider is the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation awarded by the Events Industry Council.

To qualify, you must have at least three years of event management experience, and a bachelor’s degree or higher.

You must also complete an application, pay a fee, and pass a written exam.

Another certification to consider is the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) designation, awarded by the International Live Events Association.

The requirements include a minimum of three years of full-time event planning experience, and passing a written examination.

Remember, obtaining certification not only enhances your resume but can also increase your earning potential and provide networking opportunities within the event planning community.

However, gaining practical experience through internships and entry-level positions can also be equally valuable in this profession.

Step 8: Start by Planning Small Events and Gradually Move to Larger Ones

When beginning your career as an Event Planner, it’s essential to start small and gain experience with less complex events.

This could be anything from small corporate meetings, local concerts, or private parties.

These smaller events allow you to understand the basics of event planning, such as budget management, venue selection, vendor negotiation, and logistics handling.

They also provide an opportunity to develop your communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills, all of which are critical in the event planning industry.

Once you are comfortable with planning and executing smaller events, you can gradually move on to larger, more complex ones such as conferences, expos, and large-scale weddings.

These events will challenge you to operate at a larger scale, managing larger budgets, more vendors, and more attendees.

Remember, every event, irrespective of its size, provides a valuable learning experience and a chance to build your portfolio.

And each successful event will also contribute to your reputation, helping you attract larger and more high-profile clients.

Therefore, don’t rush the process, but instead focus on gaining experience, improving your skills, and building your portfolio and reputation step by step.

Step 9: Stay Up-to-Date with Trends in Event Planning and Decoration

In the world of event planning, trends and tastes are constantly evolving.

As an event planner, it is crucial to keep up-to-date with the latest trends in event design, entertainment, technology and food and beverage.

This not only allows you to bring fresh and innovative ideas to your clients, but also helps you to stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry.

One way to stay current is by regularly reading industry-specific publications and blogs or attending industry events and expos.

These will expose you to new concepts, products, and vendors.

Incorporating these new ideas into your events will make them unique and memorable.

Additionally, you should also keep up with general societal trends, such as sustainability and digital technology, as these can heavily influence preferences and expectations in event planning.

Social media platforms, such as Instagram and Pinterest, can be great sources of inspiration as they are often the first places where new trends emerge.

Remember, as a professional event planner, your clients rely on you to deliver not just an event, but an experience.

Being aware of the latest trends and innovations in your field will ensure that you can exceed their expectations every time.

Step 10: Consider Specializing in Specific Types of Events (Corporate, Weddings, etc.)

As an event planner, deciding to specialize in specific types of events can help you streamline your expertise and focus on attracting a particular client base.

There are numerous types of events where the involvement of an event planner is essential.

These include corporate events, weddings, fundraisers, concerts, conferences, and many more.

For example, specializing in corporate events can give you a deep understanding of the needs of companies and organizations, allowing you to tailor your services to their requirements.

On the other hand, focusing on weddings can take you into a completely different but equally rewarding sector, where you can help couples make their special day as memorable as possible.

To determine which type of events you want to specialize in, consider your interests, skills, and the market needs in your area.

Do some research to figure out what types of events are most in-demand in your region.

Additionally, you can also attend various types of events to get a feel for what they involve and decide if they align with your professional and personal interests.

Once you’ve chosen your specialty, invest time in learning about the specificities and requirements of those types of events.

You may even consider getting additional training or certifications relevant to your chosen specialty to enhance your credibility and increase your knowledge.

Remember, choosing a specialty doesn’t mean you can’t plan other types of events, but having a specialized focus can differentiate you in a crowded market and attract clients who are looking for experts in their specific event needs.

Step 11: Build a Portfolio Showcasing Your Work and Experience

Building a portfolio is an essential step to showcase your skills, experiences, and achievements as an event planner.

This can be used to demonstrate your capabilities to future clients or employers.

Your portfolio should include a selection of events you have planned and managed.

Use high-quality photos, videos, or other visual mediums to present these events effectively.

If possible, include a diverse range of events in your portfolio, showcasing your ability to handle different types of events such as corporate meetings, weddings, concerts, or charity events.

Consider also including customer testimonials and reviews, if available.

Positive feedback from satisfied clients can significantly enhance your credibility.

You may also want to include information about any challenges you faced during the event planning process and how you resolved them, showing your problem-solving skills.

In addition to physical copies, consider creating an online portfolio.

An online portfolio can be easily shared with potential clients or employers and is a great way to showcase your digital skills.

Include a link to your online portfolio in your resume or professional social media platforms.

Remember to regularly update your portfolio as you gain more experience and successfully plan more events.

This will ensure that your portfolio remains current, relevant, and reflects your growing expertise.

Step 12: Start Your Own Event Planning Business or Apply for Jobs in Event Planning Companies.

After obtaining the necessary skills, qualifications, and experience, the next step to becoming an Event Planner is to either start your own event planning business or apply for jobs in established event planning companies.

Both options have their own advantages and challenges, and the choice between the two should be made based on your personal preferences, career goals, and available resources.

If you decide to start your own event planning business, you’ll need to develop a business plan, secure funding, register your business, and market your services.

It might be challenging at first, as you’ll be responsible for all aspects of the business, from client acquisition to event execution.

However, it can also be highly rewarding, as you’ll have complete creative control and the potential for higher earnings.

On the other hand, if you choose to work for an established company, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and work on a variety of events without the stress of running your own business.

It can provide job security and a steady income, but advancement opportunities may be limited and you’ll have less creative control.

Regardless of the path you choose, remember that networking is key in this industry.

Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and build relationships with vendors and clients.

This will not only help you gain new clients or secure a job but also keep you up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations in event planning.

Event Planners Roles and Responsibilities

Event Planners are professionals who coordinate and manage various aspects of events, such as conferences, weddings, and business meetings.

They ensure that events are well-organized, adhere to budgets, and meet client expectations.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

Event Planning

Design and plan events according to client’s needs and preferences.
Manage and coordinate all event details, including venue, guests, vendors, catering, and decor.
Establish timelines and ensure all deadlines are met.

Budget Management

Create and manage event budgets.
Negotiate contracts with vendors to meet budgetary requirements.
Monitor expenses and make necessary adjustments to stay within budget.

Venue Selection

Identify and secure suitable venues for events.
Coordinate with venue staff to ensure all event requirements are met.

Vendor Management

Identify, select, and manage event vendors (caterers, decorators, audio-visual teams).
Ensure vendors deliver services as per agreements.

Logistics

Manage event logistics, including registration, attendee tracking, presentation and materials support.
Coordinate and manage on-site event staff.

Marketing and Promotion

Develop and implement effective marketing strategies for event promotion.
Use social media, digital campaigns, and other marketing tools to drive event awareness and attendance.

Communication

Act as the point of contact for all stakeholders (clients, vendors, attendees).
Provide regular updates and reports to clients.

Crisis Management

Develop contingency plans and manage any emerging issues on the event day.
Handle any event emergencies or cancellations.

Post-Event Evaluation

Conduct post-event evaluations to assess the success of the event.
Gather feedback from attendees, clients, and vendors to improve future events.

Networking

Build and maintain relationships with vendors, venues, and clients.
Attend industry events to stay current with trends and make business connections.

Continuing Education

Stay updated with latest trends in event planning and management.
Attend workshops, conferences, and professional development courses to enhance skills and knowledge.

What Does an Event Planners Do?

Event Planners are specialized professionals who oversee every aspect of event planning and execution.

They can work in event management companies, corporations, or as self-employed individuals offering their services to a variety of clients.

They are responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing events such as weddings, business conferences, birthdays, charity events, and more.

Event Planners start by understanding their client’s needs and expectations for the event.

They then set the event’s date, budget, and location, and begin sourcing suppliers such as caterers, florists, and entertainers.

Their role also includes negotiating contracts with vendors and service providers, ensuring that all aspects of the event align with the client’s budget and preferences.

Once the planning is complete, Event Planners oversee the event’s execution, coordinating staff, managing vendors, and troubleshooting any issues that arise.

After the event, they may also handle follow-up activities like event feedback collection and budget reconciliation.

In all their tasks, the ultimate goal of an Event Planner is to create a memorable event that meets their client’s objectives and exceeds their expectations.

Essential Event Planners Skills

Organization: Event planning requires the ability to manage multiple tasks at once, adhere to deadlines, and maintain attention to detail. Organizational skills are therefore vital to ensure a smooth and successful event.
Communication: As an event planner, you will need to liaise with clients, vendors, and team members. Strong oral and written communication skills are crucial for conveying ideas, expectations, and requirements effectively.
Negotiation: Event planners often have to negotiate contracts with vendors or venues. The ability to negotiate to get the best deals for your clients is a valuable skill.
Problem-solving: Unexpected issues can arise in event planning. Being able to think on your feet and come up with quick, effective solutions is an essential skill for an event planner.
Time Management: With tight schedules and multiple tasks to handle, event planners must have excellent time management skills to ensure all tasks are completed on time.
Budgeting: Handling finances and staying within the budget is a crucial part of event planning. Event planners need to have good financial planning skills to manage costs effectively.
Creativity: Successful event planning requires innovative thinking to create unique and memorable events. A knack for creativity can help event planners stand out in the industry.
Networking: Building relationships with vendors, venues, and clients is important in the event planning industry. Good networking skills can provide access to better deals and opportunities.
Vendor Management: Managing vendors effectively ensures that all services for an event are delivered smoothly. This requires good interpersonal skills, clear communication, and the ability to manage relationships.
Technology Proficiency: Event planners need to be comfortable using event management software, social media platforms, and other technologies to streamline their work and promote events.
Flexibility: Event planning can be unpredictable, requiring last-minute changes and adjustments. Flexibility and adaptability are critical skills for handling these situations.
Stress Management: The pressure of planning a successful event can be high. Event planners need to have effective stress management strategies to stay calm and composed under pressure.
Project Management: Event planning is essentially a project management task. Understanding project management principles such as planning, executing, and monitoring can be beneficial for event planners.
Customer Service: An event planner’s goal is to ensure a successful event for their clients. Excellent customer service skills are vital to understand client needs and deliver satisfying results.
Crisis Management: Sometimes, despite careful planning, things go wrong during events. The ability to manage crises effectively and ensure minimal disruption is a valuable skill for event planners.

Event Planners Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Junior Event Planner

The starting point is often as a Junior Event Planner.

This is a learning phase where you assimilate knowledge and garner practical experience.

Your responsibilities might include supporting event planning, liaising with vendors, and assisting in event promotion.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

Continuous Learning: Stay informed about the latest trends in event planning and management.
Mentorship: Seek guidance from your senior colleagues and don’t shy away from asking questions.
Proactivity: Show enthusiasm and take initiative in every task you’re assigned.

The Ascent: Event Planner

With experience and confidence, you ascend to the role of an Event Planner.

You’ll take on more responsibility, handle larger events, and become a crucial part of the planning team.

Here’s how to excel in this stage:

Planning Skills: Enhance your planning skills by managing multiple tasks efficiently and ensuring events go as planned.
Networking: Build strong relationships with vendors, clients, and stakeholders to ensure smooth event execution.
Customer Service: Develop excellent customer service skills, as dealing with clients is a significant part of the job.

Reaching New Heights: Senior Event Planner

The next level is the Senior Event Planner position.

At this stage, you are recognized for your expertise and leadership within the team.

You may mentor junior planners, make significant planning decisions, and drive events to success.

To be successful as a Senior Event Planner:

Mentorship: Share your experiences and help junior planners develop their skills.
Strategic Planning: Think beyond individual events and consider overarching event strategies and concepts.
Leadership: Set a positive example and inspire others with your work ethic and problem-solving abilities.

Beyond the Horizon: Event Manager and Beyond

As your career advances, you might choose to specialize in a particular area, such as becoming an Event Manager, Director of Events, or even starting your own event planning company.

Each of these roles involves greater responsibilities, leadership, and strategic decision-making.

Here’s what to focus on:

Strategic Leadership: Drive event initiatives and shape the strategic direction of your projects and teams.
Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to lead your team effectively.
Innovation: Continue to innovate and stay at the forefront of event planning trends and technologies.

Pinnacle of Success: Director of Events or CEO

At the apex of the event planning career ladder, you may reach roles like Director of Events or CEO of your own company.

Here, you’ll be responsible for shaping the overall event strategy of the organization, making critical decisions, and managing larger teams.

Event Planners Salary

Entry-Level Event Planner

Median Salary: $40,000 – $50,000 per year
Entry-level event planners typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold a bachelor’s degree in event management or a related field. They are responsible for assisting in event planning tasks such as venue selection, catering coordination, and event marketing.

Mid-Level Event Planner

Median Salary: $50,000 – $65,000 per year
Mid-level event planners have 2-5 years of experience and handle larger and more complex events. They may start taking on leadership roles and overseeing junior event planners.

Senior Event Planner

Median Salary: $65,000 – $85,000 per year
Senior event planners have 5+ years of experience. They are responsible for planning and executing high-profile events, managing teams of planners, and liaising with high-level clients.

Event Planning Manager / Director of Events

Median Salary: $70,000 – $90,000+ per year
These roles typically require significant experience and involve overseeing all event planning activities in an organization, managing a team of event planners, and ensuring the smooth execution of all events.

VP of Event Planning

Median Salary: $100,000 – $130,000+ per year
This high-level position requires extensive experience and deep expertise in event planning. The VP of Event Planning is responsible for setting the strategic direction for all event planning activities in a company.

Event Planners Work Environment

Event planners typically work in an office setting, however, their work often takes them to locations such as hotels, convention centers, and various event venues where they meet with clients and coordinate the details of events.

The role often involves a considerable amount of traveling, working irregular hours including evenings and weekends.

As a result, event planners must be flexible and able to handle potential stress related to ensuring events go as planned.

Their job may also be fast-paced and demanding as events approach, with a slower pace during times when fewer events are being planned.

Event planners who are self-employed, as many are, can set their own schedules, but may work long hours, especially in the days leading up to an event.

They often collaborate with various professionals like decorators, caterers, and audio-visual team to ensure the successful execution of events.

With experience and a solid client base, an event planner may choose to open their own event planning firm.

FAQs About Becoming an Event Planners

What is needed to become an event planner?

To become an event planner, you typically need a strong foundation in management, customer service, and organization.

A bachelor’s degree in event management, hospitality, or a related field can be beneficial.

However, practical experience is often considered more important.

Key skills include excellent communication, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and creativity.

A good understanding of budgeting and marketing is also crucial.

Lastly, having a good network of vendors and suppliers can be beneficial.

How long does it take to be an event planner?

The time it takes to become an event planner can vary greatly depending on your path.

If you pursue a bachelor’s degree in a related field, it typically takes four years.

However, many event planners start their careers in other fields, gaining relevant experience in roles such as administrative assistant or public relations specialist, before transitioning into event planning.

This route can be faster, depending on the opportunities available to you.

Additionally, becoming an intern or assistant to an established event planner can provide valuable hands-on experience.

Can I be an event planner without a degree?

Yes, it’s possible to become an event planner without a formal degree.

Many successful event planners have started their careers without a degree in the field, gaining practical experience through entry-level roles, volunteering, or internships.

However, having a degree in event management or a related field can provide a strong foundation of knowledge and skills, and may make you more attractive to employers.

Is event planning a stressful job?

Event planning can be stressful, as it often involves tight deadlines, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and dealing with unexpected issues.

It also typically involves dealing directly with clients, which can be challenging if conflicts or disagreements arise.

However, many event planners find the job rewarding, as it allows them to be creative, work on a variety of events, and see the results of their efforts directly.

What are the prospects for event planners in the next decade?

The prospects for event planners are expected to grow in the next decade.

With the increasing number of corporate events, weddings, and other social gatherings, the demand for professional event planners is on the rise.

Additionally, with the advent of virtual events due to the pandemic, event planners who can adapt and plan successful online events will have an edge in the market.

Conclusion

Here we go.

Commencing your journey to become an event planner is no easy task, but the rewards are undoubtedly fulfilling.

Equipped with the right skills, education, and tenacity, you’re well on your way to making a significant impact in the event planning industry.

Remember, the journey may be demanding, but the possibilities are endless. Your creativity could lead to the next big event that changes how people celebrate, connect, and interact.

So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in learning. Network with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop planning.

Because the world is waiting for the experiences you can create.

And if you’re looking for personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in event planning, take a look at our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to offer customized advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.

Easy Street to Riches: Discover Jobs Where Hard Work Isn’t Required!

Beyond CEOs: Unexpected Careers Where You Can Earn Big in 2025!

The Good Vibes Gig: Enjoyable Jobs That Radiate Positivity

Weird Work: Unusual Jobs That Are Surprisingly Real

The Employment Elevation: Soaring to New Heights with Hot Jobs