Event Planning: How to Become an Event Planner & Make Money? (2023)

Want To Know How To Become an Event Planner & Make Money? Learn The Essential Skills, Education & Steps To Make a Successful Career In Event Planning & Earn a Decent Income.

What is an Event Planner?

An event planner is a professional who is responsible for coordinating, organizing & executing various events such as weddings, corporate events, parties & other special occasions. They work closely with clients to understand their needs & preferences, and then plan & execute the event to perfection. Event planners must have excellent communication, organizational & time management skills, as well as a creative eye for detail.

Event planning is a highly creative & challenging profession that involves a lot of planning, coordination & high management skills. Event planners are responsible for creating memorable experiences that leave a lasting impression on attendees. If you have a passion for organizing & executing events, then you can turn your passion into a big income source by becoming an event planner.

How To Become an Event Planner?

If you are really excited to start your journey with event management, it's simple & easy. However, you need to have a passion for what you are doing, whether it's event management or any subject. Passion & the love of what you do is what keep you moving even if the going gets tough.

Event planning is also a fast-paced & rewarding career that requires creativity, organization & attention to detail. If you have a passion for bringing people together & making events unforgettable, then event planning may be the perfect career for you. You may consider the following 5 tips to get started & make your journey more effective.

Step 1: Gain Experience as you Move Forward:

Experience is essential when it comes to event planning. You don't have to have a background in event planning to start your career, but it's important to have some experience in the field. You can gain experience by volunteering at events, planning parties or events for friends and family, or even taking on small paid gigs.

Step 2: Build Your Network - Slow & Steady:

Networking is key in the event planning industry or any other domain. Attend industry events & conferences, join professional organizations & connect with other event planners on social media. Building relationships with vendors, suppliers & many other professionals in the industry. It will not only give you access to more opportunities but will also help you learn more about the industry.

Step 3: Get Educated (Key To Success):

While formal education is not a requirement for event planners, it can be an absolute advantage to take courses in event planning, hospitality, or business management. Consider getting certified as an event planner through a professional organization, such as the International Live Events Association (ILEA) or the Wedding Planning Institute (WPI).

Step 4: Develop Your Skills Every Single Day:

Event planning is a combination of technical skills & soft skills. You need to be able to manage budgets, coordinate logistics & handle emergencies, as well as possess strong communication & interpersonal skills. You can develop these skills through hands-on experience, continuing education & seeking feedback from others in the industry.

Step 5: Consider Starting Your Own Business or Find a Job:

Once you have the skills & experience necessary, you can either start your own event planning business or find a job in the industry. If you're starting your own business, be sure to create a business plan, determine your target market & develop a marketing strategy. If you're seeking a job, look for opportunities at event planning companies, hotels & catering firms.

What Education is Required to Become an Event Planner?

While there is no specific education required to become an event planner, having a degree in event management, hospitality, or a related field can always give you an advantage in the competitive job market. A degree in these fields can provide you with the skills & knowledge you need to plan & execute events effectively. It will give you an edge over other candidates who do not have a formal education in event planning. Here are 10 event management courses (Certifications) You Can Try:

1. Certified Special Event Professional (CSEP):

The Certified Special Event Professional (CSEP) course is a comprehensive program designed for individuals in the event industry. The course covers all aspects of event planning & management, from conceptualization to execution. To apply for the CSEP course, interested candidates can visit the International Live Events Association (ILEA) website. The cost of the program varies, but it typically ranges from $600-$700, depending on the location & the type of membership the candidate holds with ILEA. The investment in the CSEP course is a valuable one, as it demonstrates a commitment to professionalism & provides a competitive edge in the industry.

2. Event & Meeting Management Certificate (EMM):

EMM aka Event & Meeting Management Certificate program covers various aspects of event & meeting planning & management. It also includes budgeting, risk management & stakeholder relations. The program is offered by leading industry organizations and educational institutions such as UW Stout & Penn State College. To enroll in the EMM program, interested candidates can visit the respective website to find out more information & to apply. The cost of the program typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,500. The EMM certificate is an important industry recognition & provides event & meeting professionals with the knowledge & skills necessary to succeed in their careers.

3. Certified Meeting Professional (CMP):

The Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) program is a highly-regarded certification for professionals in the meetings & events industry. It covers ethics, financial management & risk assessment. To become certified, students must meet certain eligibility criteria & pass a rigorous examination. The CMP program is offered by the Convention Industry Council (CIC) & is recognized as a symbol of professionalism in the industry. To apply for the CMP program and to find out more information, interested individuals can visit the CIC website. The cost of the program might be anywhere from $500 to $600, including the examination fee & other materials. 

4. Professional in Meeting Management (PMM):

The Professional in Meeting Management (PMM) program is designed for the events industry, & covers contract negotiations, site selection & event design. The PMM program is offered by the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) & provides individuals with the skills & knowledge necessary to succeed in their careers. To enroll in the PMM program, interested candidates can visit the PCMA website to find out more information & to apply. The cost of the program typically ranges from $1,500 - $2,000, depending on the type of membership & location.

5. Certified Wedding & Event Planner (CWEP):

The Certified Wedding & Event Planner (CWEP) program is a certification course that covers various aspects of event planning, including vendor relations, event design & budget management. The CWEP program is offered by the Wedding Planning Institute (WPI) & provides individuals with the knowledge & necessary skills necessary to excel in their careers as wedding & event planners. To enroll in the CWEP program, you can visit the WPI website to find out more information & to apply online. The cost of the program might be from $2,000 to $3,000, depending on program type & demographics.

6. Diploma in Event Management:

The Diploma in Event Management is an in-depth program that provides individuals with a comprehensive education in the field of event planning & management. Whether you're interested in a career in events or just looking to broaden your knowledge & skills, this program offers an excellent foundation in the industry. The curriculum covers all aspects of event planning & management, including event design, risk management & marketing. 

With a focus on hands-on learning & real-world experience, the Diploma in Event Management will equip you with the knowledge & skills you need to succeed in the competitive world of events. If you're interested in enrolling in the program, you can easily find more information & apply online. The cost of the program can vary but mostly ranges from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on different factors.

7. Bachelor of Science in Event Management:

The Bachelor of Science in Event Management is a 4-year degree program that provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the dynamic field of events. It covers various topics of event planning including event design, risk management & marketing, and provides students with hands-on experience & a solid foundation in the principles & practices of event management.

The cost of a Bachelor of Science in Event Management can vary depending on the institution & location, but the investment in a higher education degree is often well worth it. Many universities & colleges offer this program, & the average cost can range from $15,000 to $40,000 per year.

With a focus on both theory & practical application, the Bachelor of Science in Event Management is a well-designed course to equip students with the required tools to succeed. In conclusion, the Bachelor of Science in Event Management is one of the best choices for individuals who are serious about pursuing a career in the events industry.

8. MSHEM, Master of Science in Hospitality & Event Management Degree:

MSHEM degree is a graduate program that provides students with the advanced knowledge, skills, & practical experience required to become a pro in the hospitality & event management industry. The curriculum of the MSHEM degree program includes courses in hospitality operations, event planning, marketing, & business management. In addition, students may take courses in areas such as food & beverage management, event design, & hospitality law. 

The program also provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through internships & other practical learning experiences. Obtaining this degree can lead to career advancement opportunities, higher starting salaries & increased competitiveness in the event management job market. You can check out this link for institutions offering the course & fee structures, as it varies depending on many factors.

9. BBA in Event Management:

A Bachelor of Business Administration, BBA in Event Management, is a 4-year undergraduate degree that focuses on the skills & knowledge needed to manage bigger events. The program combines a strong foundation in business principles with specialized courses in event planning, management & marketing.

In this degree program, you'll learn how to develop & implement event strategies & manage budgets & timelines. You will learn to negotiate contracts & work with vendors & stakeholders. You'll also explore the creative side of event management, learning how to design & execute events that engage & entertain guests. This is a more advanced course compared to other courses & you may require the following;

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Minimum GPA

• SAT or ACT scores

• Letter of recommendation

• Personal statement or essay

• Interview (for some programs)

On average, the cost of tuition for a 4-year undergraduate degree in the United States ranges from $10,000 to $50,000 or more. There will be other additional costs above the mentioned course fee.   

10. MBA in Event Management & Tourism:

As the name suggests, an MBA in event management is the highest degree you can get to pursue your successful career as an event planner. A Master of Business Administration in Event Management & Tourism is a program that provides students with the most advanced business principles, management strategies, & also the events & tourism industry.

This program is designed for students in business management & is an in-depth understanding of the events & tourism industry. It covers topics such as event planning, tourism management, marketing, finance & operations management. The cost of an MBA in Event Management & Tourism can be high & again depending on the university & location.

On average, the cost can range from $30,000 to $120,000. Some universities may also offer scholarships or financial aid for students who are interested in the program. There are many Top universities that offer an MBA in Event Management & Tourism, but some of the best are:

• Harvard University

• University of Cambridge

• Stanford University

• The Wharton University of Pennsylvania

• University of Oxford

8 Creative Ways to Make Money as an Event Planner:

Learn how to monetize your event planning skills & increase your income with these 8 creative ways to make money as an event planner. As an event planner, you have a passion for creating unforgettable experiences & memories for your clients. But what if you could also turn your passion into a profitable business? Explore these 8 creative ways to make money as an event planner & monetize your skills.

1. Earn with Full-Service Event Planning:

One of the most obvious ways to make money as an event planner is to offer full-service event planning. This includes everything from conceptualization to execution & includes tasks such as venue selection, vendor selection, decoration & more. By offering a comprehensive solution, you can command higher fees & offer your clients a stress-free experience.

2. Specialize in Particular Niche Markets:

Another way to make money as an event planner is to specialize in niche markets. For example, you could focus on weddings, corporate events, or social events such as birthdays & anniversaries. By specializing in a specific type of event, you can become an expert in that field & charge a premium for your services.

3. Create an Online Presence & Let Others Know:

Having an online presence is essential for any business & event planning is no exception. By creating a professional website & social media profiles, you can showcase your portfolio to reach a wider audience. You can also use your online presence to offer virtual event planning services, allowing you to reach clients all over the world.

4. Partner with Other Event Management Vendors:

Another way to make money as an event planner is to partner with other vendors in the industry. By working together, you can offer a one-stop solution for your clients & receive a commission on the services provided by your partners. This not only increases your income but also helps you build relationships with other vendors, which can lead to future collaborations.

5. Sell Event Planning Products:

Event planning products, such as decor & props, can be a lucrative income stream for event planners. By offering these products for sale, you can not only increase your income but also enhance the experience for your clients. For example, you could sell unique decor items, or offer customized props for specific events.

6. Earn with Event Planning Workshops:

Offering event planning workshops is another way to make money as an event planner. You can use your expertise to teach others about the industry & also earn income from ticket sales. Workshops can be held in person or online & can cover a wide range of topics, such as wedding planning & corporate event planning.

7. Earn with Destination Event Planning Services:

Destination events, such as destination weddings, are becoming very popular & offer a unique opportunity for event planners to make money. By offering destination event planning services, you can charge a premium for your services & provide your clients with an unforgettable experience.

8. Create an Event Planning App:

The events industry is constantly evolving & technology is playing a big role in this. By creating an event planning app, you can offer a unique solution for your clients & also monetize your skills. The app could include features such as vendor selection, budget tracking & event schedule & could be offered for a fee.

11 Types of Event Planners To Consider Before Starting Your Career: