How to Become an Event Stylist (Make Celebrations Count!)

If you’ve ever dreamed of styling breathtaking events or wondered what it takes to become a successful event stylist, you’ve found the perfect guide.

In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to take to launch your career as an event stylist. We’ll discuss:

The skills you need.
The education that can help you get there.
How to land a job as an event stylist.

So, whether you’re a styling novice or a creative individual looking to level up your skills, stay tuned.

We’re about to reveal the roadmap to becoming a successful event stylist.

Let’s get started!

Contents show

Steps to Become an Event Stylist

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

Before you can effectively pursue a career as an Event Stylist, you first need to have a clear understanding of what the role entails and the responsibilities associated with it.

An Event Stylist is someone who designs and creates the visual elements of an event.

This includes everything from the color scheme, lighting, furnishings, table settings, backdrops, centerpieces, props, and other decor items.

Event Stylists work with clients to understand their vision and ideas for the event, and then use their creativity and design skills to bring those ideas to life in a visually stunning and cohesive manner.

They also need to be able to work within the budget specified by the client and source items that fit within that budget.

In addition to design skills, an Event Stylist needs to have excellent organizational skills to manage all the logistics and ensure everything is in place for the event.

They also need to have good communication and interpersonal skills to effectively work with clients, vendors, and other members of the event team.

Understanding these responsibilities and whether they align with your skills and interests is the first step towards pursuing a career as an Event Stylist.

Step 2: Acquire Basic Education and Training in Event Planning/Design

To become an event stylist, it is crucial to have a basic education in event planning and design.

This can be achieved by obtaining a degree or diploma in event management, hospitality, or a similar field.

These programs often include courses on topics such as event coordination, venue selection, budget management, and marketing.

Gaining knowledge in these areas will provide a solid foundation for your career in event styling.

In addition to formal education, it is also beneficial to seek out hands-on training opportunities.

This can be accomplished through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work in the event industry.

This practical experience will allow you to apply the concepts you’ve learned in school and gain valuable skills in event design and execution.

Furthermore, specific courses or workshops in floral arrangement, interior design, color theory, and visual merchandising could be beneficial as they are directly applicable to the role of an event stylist.

This additional training can provide you with the technical skills necessary to create visually appealing and memorable events.

Remember, the role of an event stylist often requires creativity, attention to detail, and good organizational skills.

Therefore, any education or training that helps to develop these skills can be beneficial for your career.

Step 3: Develop a Strong Sense of Style and Creativity

As an event stylist, you will need to have a keen eye for design and be creative.

This involves understanding color schemes, furniture styles, decor trends, and how different elements can be combined to create a unique and visually pleasing environment.

You can start developing your sense of style by observing different types of events, such as weddings, parties, corporate events, and exhibitions.

Expand your knowledge by studying interior design, fashion, and art, as these fields can influence event styling.

It’s also recommended to stay updated with the latest trends in the industry, which you can do by following relevant blogs, magazines, and social media accounts.

Creativity is an important attribute for an event stylist.

Try to think outside the box and come up with innovative ideas for each event.

Remember, each event is unique, and the goal is to create a memorable experience for the clients and their guests.

Practical experience is invaluable.

Practice styling your own events, whether it’s a small gathering of friends or a family celebration.

This will allow you to experiment with different styles and develop your own unique style.

In this step, you should also start building your portfolio.

This portfolio should showcase your best work and demonstrate your style and skills.

It will be a crucial tool when you start approaching clients or potential employers.

Step 4: Gain Experience through Internships or Volunteering

To really understand the ins and outs of event styling, you need to get hands-on experience.

This is where internships and volunteering come in.

Many event planning and decor companies offer internships that can provide invaluable experience and insight into the industry.

Volunteering for events can also be a great way to learn more about event styling.

This could include helping with setup, decor, and breakdown for weddings, corporate events, or even small parties.

During these experiences, you will have the opportunity to observe and learn from seasoned professionals.

You will understand the process of creating event designs, choosing the right decor, coordinating with vendors, and meeting client expectations.

These real-world experiences will also help you to build your portfolio, which is crucial when you start to apply for event stylist jobs.

Remember, it’s important to seize every opportunity to learn, whether it’s arranging the flowers, setting up the lighting, or choosing the right table linens.

The more experience you have, the better equipped you’ll be to handle the challenges and demands of a career in event styling.

Step 5: Master the Art of Communication and Networking

Effective communication and networking are essential skills for an Event Stylist.

As an event stylist, you’ll be expected to interact with a wide range of people, including clients, vendors, and team members.

You’ll need to effectively communicate your ideas and vision, negotiate with vendors, and manage teams to ensure that the event is executed flawlessly.

Networking is equally important in this field.

By building a strong professional network, you can open up opportunities for collaborations, partnerships, and referrals.

Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and engage with peers and industry leaders on social media platforms.

Additionally, work on developing a solid online presence.

A well-maintained professional website or blog showcasing your work and style can attract potential clients.

Social media platforms are also a great way to reach a wider audience, share your work, and engage with potential clients and industry peers.

Remember, the relationships you build through networking can lead to new opportunities, so always strive to leave a positive impression.

This involves being respectful, professional, and reliable in all your interactions.

Step 6: Learn to Work with Vendors and Suppliers

As an event stylist, a significant part of your role will involve sourcing materials, decor, and supplies necessary to bring your envisioned event to life.

This means you’ll need to establish and maintain strong relationships with various vendors and suppliers.

These vendors and suppliers may include florists, lighting companies, furniture rental companies, and decor providers, among others.

You’ll need to know how to negotiate contracts, discuss pricing, and ensure timely delivery of all necessary items.

Therefore, having good communication, negotiation, and networking skills are essential.

Additionally, having a diverse network of suppliers can provide you with a vast range of options when it comes to styling an event.

This can prove beneficial in providing unique, creative solutions to your clients and can set you apart in your field.

Learning to work efficiently with vendors and suppliers also entails understanding the logistics and coordination required for event setup and dismantling.

You need to ensure that all components arrive on time, are set up properly, and are removed promptly after the event.

This can sometimes require troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, particularly when unexpected issues arise.

Remember to keep an open mind and be flexible.

Each event is a new opportunity to learn and grow, and each vendor or supplier is a potential partner in making your event a success.

Step 7: Stay Up-to-Date with Current Trends and Styles in Events

As an event stylist, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest trends and styles in the event planning industry.

This includes understanding current themes, color schemes, decor styles, and event technologies that are popular.

You can achieve this by subscribing to event planning and styling magazines, attending exhibitions and trade shows, participating in industry seminars, and joining professional styling networks and associations.

Frequent research online and on social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram will also help you discover current trends and innovative styling ideas.

You may also benefit from taking short courses and workshops that focus on new and emerging trends in event styling.

Keeping abreast of these trends will not only enhance your styling portfolio but will also make your services more appealing to clients who want their events to feel contemporary and stylish.

Remember, the key to success in event styling is to continually adapt and evolve with the trends while still maintaining your unique styling perspective.

Lastly, always take into account your client’s preferences.

While it’s important to know what’s in style, tailoring an event to the client’s personal taste is paramount.

Step 8: Build a Portfolio Showcasing Your Work and Creativity

As an event stylist, a strong portfolio is one of your most valuable assets.

This portfolio is a visual representation of your skills, creativity, and experience.

Start by documenting every event you work on, taking high-quality photos that capture your unique styling elements.

These photos should highlight the various aspects of your event styling, including table settings, venue decorations, floral arrangements, color themes, and more.

Whenever possible, work with professional photographers who can capture your work in the best light.

Remember, your portfolio is the first thing potential clients will see when they consider hiring you, so it needs to be impressive and representative of your style and capabilities.

In addition to photographs, include client testimonials, details about the event like the concept or theme, the venue, the number of attendees, etc.

This information will provide context and show potential clients that you can handle a variety of events.

Online platforms are a great place to showcase your portfolio.

You can create your own website or use social media platforms like Instagram, which are particularly effective because of their visual focus.

As you progress in your career, regularly update your portfolio with your most recent work.

This continuous updating will show potential clients that you are active, up-to-date with current trends, and always improving in your craft.

Lastly, while showcasing your best work, ensure your portfolio is diverse, demonstrating your flexibility and range as an event stylist.

Step 9: Develop Business and Marketing Skills

As an Event Stylist, you will be tasked with not only designing and executing memorable events, but also with promoting your own services to attract clients.

This means you’ll need to develop solid business and marketing skills.

For the business aspect, you’ll need to understand how to manage budgets, negotiate contracts, and build relationships with vendors and suppliers.

You also need to understand client management, including setting and managing expectations, communication, and problem-solving.

In terms of marketing, understanding how to create a unique brand for yourself and how to promote that brand is vital in a competitive industry such as event styling.

You need to be knowledgeable about digital marketing strategies, including social media marketing, email marketing, and content marketing.

You should also be comfortable with traditional marketing methods, such as networking, print advertising, and public relations.

Consider attending business and marketing courses or workshops to hone these skills.

Alternatively, you could pursue a business or marketing degree or diploma.

Some Event Stylists even hire professional marketing agencies or consultants to ensure their brand reaches the right audience.

Remember, the more successful you are in marketing your event styling business, the more opportunities you will have to showcase your creativity and design skills.

Step 10: Start Applying for Jobs as an Event Stylist or Start Your Own Business.

After you’ve obtained enough experience, have established your portfolio and network, and have a comprehensive knowledge of event planning and styling, you can start applying for jobs.

Look for event styling positions in event management companies, wedding planning agencies, corporate event planning teams, or entertainment agencies.

These jobs can provide you with a regular income and allow you to further hone your skills.

When preparing your resume, make sure to highlight your experience in event styling, your knowledge of current trends, your ability to work under pressure, and your creativity.

It’s also beneficial to include pictures of events you’ve styled in your portfolio to showcase your work.

Alternatively, you might want to start your own event styling business.

This option is more challenging as it requires entrepreneurial skills, financial investment, and marketing efforts.

However, it can be rewarding as it offers more freedom and control over your career.

You can start small by offering your services to friends and family, then gradually expand your client base through word-of-mouth recommendations and social media promotion.

Whether you choose to work for a company or start your own business, continuous learning and improvement is key in this industry.

Stay updated on the latest trends and techniques in event styling, attend professional events, and constantly seek ways to improve your skills and services.

Remember, successful event stylists are those who can continually impress their clients with their creativity and attention to detail.

Event Stylist Roles and Responsibilities

Event Stylists are creative professionals responsible for designing and implementing the overall aesthetic and theme of an event.

They use their understanding of design, decor, and fashion to create memorable experiences that resonate with attendees.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

Event Design

Create and design unique and inspiring event concepts and themes.
Develop a comprehensive design plan that includes elements such as color schemes, decor, lighting, and furniture.
Present design proposals to clients and stakeholders for approval.

Vendor Management

Identify, liaise with, and manage vendors and suppliers relevant to the event’s decor and styling needs.
Negotiate contracts with vendors to ensure quality service at reasonable prices.
Coordinate with vendors for timely delivery and setup of decor items.

Styling Execution

Oversee the setup of the event space to ensure adherence to the design plan.
Arrange decorations, furniture, and other design elements at the event site.
Ensure that all visual elements are in place before the event begins.

Problem Solving

Address any design or decor issues that arise during the setup or the event.
Find quick and creative solutions to styling challenges.
Ensure the final design meets client expectations despite any potential obstacles.

Quality Assurance

Inspect the event venue and decor to ensure high standards of aesthetics and quality.
Monitor the event styling throughout the event to maintain design integrity.
Ensure all safety guidelines are adhered to in the design and setup.

Team Management

Lead and coordinate with the event styling team to execute design plans efficiently.
Provide guidance, feedback, and constructive criticism to team members.
Delegate tasks effectively to ensure smooth operation and time management.

Communication

Communicate effectively with clients, team members, vendors, and other event staff.
Present and explain design concepts effectively to clients and stakeholders.
Document and communicate progress, issues, and changes in the design plan.

Post-Event Responsibilities

Oversee the breakdown and cleanup of the event decor after the event concludes.
Ensure all rented items are returned to vendors in a timely manner.
Evaluate the success of the event design and gather feedback for improvement.

Continual Learning and Development

Stay updated with the latest trends in event design, decor, and fashion.
Attend workshops, seminars, and training programs to enhance design skills.
Seek and explore new ideas and techniques for unique and creative event styling.

What Does an Event Stylist Do?

Event Stylists work primarily in the event planning industry, offering their services to both corporate and private clients.

They can also work as freelancers or as part of a larger event management team.

Their main task is to conceptualize and design the visual and aesthetic aspects of an event, transforming ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences.

They work closely with clients to understand their vision and implement it effectively.

Event Stylists are responsible for selecting and coordinating all design elements, including but not limited to, color palettes, lighting, furniture, props, floral arrangements, table settings, and draperies.

They often create mood boards and sketches to present their design concepts to clients.

They also liaise with other professionals such as florists, caterers, and rental companies to ensure all elements come together seamlessly.

On the day of the event, Event Stylists are usually present to supervise the setup, ensuring that every detail aligns with the agreed-upon theme and design concept.

They may also be responsible for the tear-down and clean-up of the event space afterwards.

They are expected to stay current with the latest design trends and to continuously come up with innovative and creative ideas to make each event unique and memorable.

Essential Event Stylist Skills

Creativity: Event stylists must have a creative mind to design unique themes and decorations for each event. Their creativity helps in turning client’s vision into reality and making each event distinctive.
Communication: It is vital to communicate effectively with clients, vendors, and event planners. Good communication skills help in understanding client’s needs and expectations and conveying their concepts to the team.
Detail Oriented: A keen eye for detail is crucial for an event stylist. From selecting the right color palette to finalizing the smallest decor items, attention to detail ensures that everything aligns with the chosen theme.
Problem Solving: Unexpected issues can arise during event setup. Problem-solving skills help stylists find quick and efficient solutions, ensuring that the event goes smoothly.
Time Management: Stylists often work on multiple events simultaneously. Good time management skills are essential to meet deadlines and manage tasks effectively.
Knowledge of Trends: Staying updated with the latest event styling trends and incorporating them into their designs helps stylists create modern and stylish events.
Budgeting: Event stylists must have good budgeting skills. They need to create amazing designs while staying within the client’s budget, which requires skillful allocation of resources.
Teamwork: Event stylists often work with a team of other professionals. Ability to collaborate effectively ensures a cohesive event setup.
Technical Skills: Basic knowledge of lighting, sound systems, and other technical aspects of event setup can be beneficial for an event stylist. It allows them to plan designs that integrate well with the technical setup.
Flexibility: Plans can change quickly in the events industry. Event stylists need to be flexible and adaptable, ready to adjust their designs as required.
Physical Stamina: Setting up events often involves a good deal of physical work, from arranging furniture to hanging decorations. Physical stamina helps stylists endure long hours of setup.

Event Stylist Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Assistant Event Stylist

The first step in the event styling world is often as an Assistant Event Stylist.

You assist the main event stylist with the planning and designing of events, and gain valuable hands-on experience.

Here are some tips to thrive in this entry-level role:

Learn Constantly: Keep abreast of the latest event styling trends and techniques.
Seek Guidance: Use this opportunity to learn from the experienced event stylist you are assisting.
Attention to Detail: Develop a keen eye for details to ensure all elements of an event are styled perfectly.

The Ascent: Event Stylist

With experience and increased skills, you may transition into the role of an Event Stylist.

You will be responsible for conceptualizing and implementing the event theme, and coordinating all the design elements.

Here’s how to excel in this role:

Creativity: Be creative in your designs and themes to set your events apart from the competition.
Communication: Develop excellent communication skills to effectively liaise with clients and vendors.
Organization: Develop strong organizational skills to manage multiple elements and tasks simultaneously.

Reaching New Heights: Senior Event Stylist

The next step is Senior Event Stylist, where you’ll manage a team of stylists and work on larger, more complex events.

You will also contribute to the strategic decisions of the company.

To thrive as a Senior Event Stylist:

Leadership: Lead your team effectively, ensuring everyone is on the same page and working towards the same vision.
Networking: Foster relationships with suppliers, vendors, and clients to secure future business.
Vision: Develop and maintain a strong vision for your events to ensure they are cohesive and impactful.

Beyond the Horizon: Event Stylist Director

As your career progresses, you may take on roles like Event Stylist Director, where you’ll oversee an entire event styling department, and make strategic decisions about the direction of the company’s event styling.

Here’s what to focus on:

Strategic Thinking: Set the direction for the company’s event styling, and make key decisions that affect its future.
Leadership Skills: Lead and inspire your team to execute your vision.
Industry Trends: Stay up-to-date with trends in the event styling industry to ensure your company stays competitive.

Pinnacle of Success: Chief Creative Officer

At the highest level, you may become the Chief Creative Officer, where you set the creative direction for the entire organization.

You’ll be responsible for defining the company’s creative vision, making key strategic decisions, and overseeing the creative team.

Event Stylist Salary

Entry-Level Event Stylist

Median Salary: $30,000 – $40,000 per year
Entry-level event stylists typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold a diploma or degree in event planning, design, or a related field. They work under the guidance of experienced stylists to create visually stunning event spaces.

Mid-Level Event Stylist

Median Salary: $40,000 – $55,000 per year
Mid-level event stylists have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more creative responsibilities, such as conceptualizing and implementing event themes and decorations. They may also have some client management roles.

Senior Event Stylist

Median Salary: $55,000 – $75,000 per year
Senior event stylists possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for leading design projects, making crucial design decisions, and mentoring junior stylists. They may also manage client relationships and vendor contracts.

Lead Event Stylist / Event Design Manager

Median Salary: $75,000 – $100,000+ per year
These roles come with significant experience and often involve leadership, project management, and decision-making. They may be responsible for overseeing all styling aspects of an event, leading a team of stylists, and liaising directly with clients and vendors.

Director of Event Styling / VP of Event Design

Median Salary: $100,000 – $150,000+ per year
These high-level positions require extensive experience, a strong portfolio of work, and deep design expertise. They often involve setting design strategies for an event company, overseeing all event design projects, and managing a team of event stylists.

Event Stylist Work Environment

Event Stylists typically operate in various settings such as event venues, hotels, convention centers, and clients’ homes or offices.

They may work for event planning companies or operate their own businesses.

Their work involves meeting with clients to understand their vision for the event, and then bringing that vision to life through the selection and arrangement of decor, lighting, color schemes, and more.

The work can be fast-paced and demanding, especially in the days leading up to an event.

Event stylists may work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, and may need to travel frequently to different event locations.

Given the nature of the work, an event stylist’s work environment is often changing and dynamic, requiring a high degree of adaptability and creativity.

However, seeing their concepts materialize into a beautiful and cohesive event can be incredibly rewarding.

FAQs About Becoming an Event Stylist

What is needed to become an event stylist?

To become an event stylist, you typically need a strong foundation in design principles, color theory, and spatial planning.

Some level of formal education in event planning or design can be beneficial but is not mandatory.

Key skills include creativity, attention to detail, understanding of different design styles and trends, and strong communication skills.

You should also have a knack for visual storytelling and the ability to work within budgets.

How long does it take to become an event stylist?

The timeline to become an event stylist varies greatly depending on one’s background, education, and experience.

Some people may start their careers in related fields like interior design or visual arts and transition into event styling.

Others may start as assistants to more experienced stylists and learn on the job.

You can also gain relevant knowledge and skills through short-term courses or workshops.

The most important aspect is the practical experience you gain over time while working on different events.

Can I become an event stylist without a degree?

Yes, it is possible to become an event stylist without a traditional degree.

Many employers value a strong portfolio, creativity, and practical experience over formal education.

You can develop your skills through self-study, online courses, internships, or by assisting experienced stylists.

Building a portfolio that showcases your unique style and ability to create visually appealing events can also enhance your career prospects.

Is event styling a stressful job?

Event styling can be stressful at times due to tight deadlines, budget constraints, and the need for precise execution.

However, the level of stress can vary depending on the scale of the event, the client’s expectations, and your ability to manage time and resources effectively.

Despite the occasional stress, many event stylists find the job rewarding as they get to bring their creative visions to life and play a part in making special occasions memorable.

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

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

As people and businesses continue to host events, there will always be a demand for professionals who can create visually stunning and memorable experiences.

Furthermore, the rise of social media and event marketing offers additional opportunities for event stylists to showcase their work and reach a larger audience.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Venturing down the road to become an event stylist is no small undertaking, but it’s undoubtedly an exciting journey.

Equipped with the right skills, education, and determination, you’re ready to make a splash in the world of event styling.

Remember, the journey may be demanding, but the opportunities are boundless. Your creativity could lead to the next trend-setting event that changes how we celebrate, connect, and create memories.

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

Because the world is waiting for what you can design.

And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in event styling, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.

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

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