How to Start a Profitable Party Planner Business [11 Steps]

Nick

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 02, 2024

party planner business image

Business Steps:

1. perform market analysis., 2. draft a party planner business plan., 3. develop a party planner brand., 4. formalize your business registration., 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for party planner., 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for party planner services., 8. acquire party planner equipment and supplies., 9. obtain business insurance for party planner, if required., 10. begin marketing your party planner services., 11. expand your party planner business..

When embarking on a venture in the party planning business, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of the market dynamics. A comprehensive market analysis will reveal the existing demand, competition, and potential for growth, guiding you to make informed decisions as you lay the foundation of your enterprise. Here are key steps to consider:

  • Analyze the local demand for party planning services by identifying the most popular types of events, such as weddings, birthdays, corporate events, or themed parties.
  • Research local competitors to understand their service offerings, pricing strategies, market share, and unique selling propositions.
  • Identify your target demographic by age, income level, and social preferences to tailor your services effectively.
  • Assess industry trends and emerging themes in party planning to stay ahead and offer cutting-edge services.
  • Collect and interpret data from surveys, social media, and industry reports to gauge customer needs and satisfaction levels.
  • Consider economic indicators and local event regulations that could impact the party planning business in your area.

party planner business image

Are Party Planner businesses profitable?

Yes, party planning businesses can be very profitable. Depending on the type of events you plan and the size of your business, you can generate a significant income. With proper planning, organization, and marketing, you can create a successful and profitable party planning business.

Creating a well-structured business plan is essential for the success of your party planner enterprise. It will serve as a roadmap for your business, outlining your goals, strategies, and financial projections. Here are critical elements that should be included in your party planner business plan:

  • Executive Summary: Provide a brief overview of your party planning business, including your company's mission statement, service offerings, and unique selling propositions.
  • Market Analysis: Research the party planning market, identify your target audience, and analyze your competitors to find a niche or advantage.
  • Services Offered: Describe the types of parties you plan, such as weddings, birthdays, corporate events, and the specific services you offer, from venue selection to vendor coordination.
  • Marketing and Sales Strategies: Detail how you plan to attract and retain clients, including pricing, promotions, advertising, and sales tactics.
  • Operational Plan: Explain the day-to-day operations of your business, including the roles and responsibilities of your team, if applicable, and the tools and technology you will use.
  • Financial Plan: Include a budget, a projection of start-up costs, ongoing expenses, revenue forecasts, and a break-even analysis.
  • Milestones and Metrics: Set clear goals and objectives, with measurable metrics to track progress and success.

How does a Party Planner business make money?

A Party Planner business typically makes money by charging a fee for their services. This fee is usually based on the services provided and the amount of time and effort required to plan and organize the event. Additionally, some party planners may offer additional services such as catering, venue rental, and decorations which generate additional income.

Establishing a memorable and appealing brand is crucial when starting a party planning business. Your brand is the face of your company and should reflect the unique value and experience you offer to clients. Here are some key points to consider when developing your party planner brand:

  • Identify Your Niche: Determine the specific market or theme you'll specialize in, such as children's parties, weddings, or corporate events.
  • Create a Brand Identity: Design a logo and choose color schemes and fonts that convey the style and tone of your services, ensuring consistency across all materials.
  • Define Your Brand Values: Decide on the core values and messages you want to communicate to your clients, like creativity, attention to detail, or stress-free planning.
  • Develop a Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Articulate what makes your party planning service stand out from competitors, such as unique themes, personalized experiences, or exceptional customer service.
  • Build an Online Presence: Create a professional website and active social media profiles to showcase your portfolio, share customer testimonials, and engage with your audience.
  • Consistency is Key: Ensure that all your communications and marketing materials align with your brand identity to build trust and recognition.

How to come up with a name for your Party Planner business?

Brainstorming is the best way to come up with a name for your Party Planner business. Consider words that are associated with parties such as celebration, festivity and fun. Also think about what makes your business unique and special and use that as inspiration. Finally, keep it simple and memorable and make sure the name is easy to pronounce and spell.

image of ZenBusiness logo

Formalizing your business registration is a critical step in establishing your party planner business as a legal entity. This process varies depending on your location, but it generally involves a few key steps that will help protect your business and ensure compliance with government regulations. Here are some essential actions to take:

  • Choose a Business Structure: Decide whether your party planner business will be a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Each structure has different legal and tax implications.
  • Register Your Business Name: If you're using a name other than your own, you'll need to register a "Doing Business As" (DBA) name. Check with your local government to ensure the name isn't already taken and to register it properly.
  • Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses: Depending on your location and the scope of services you're offering, certain permits and licenses may be required to operate legally. Research local regulations and apply for all necessary documentation.
  • Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN): If you plan to hire employees, or your business structure requires it, you will need to obtain an EIN from the IRS for tax purposes.
  • Register for State and Local Taxes: Register with your state's taxation department to obtain a tax identification number, worker's compensation, unemployment, and disability insurance.

Resources to help get you started:

Explore crucial resources designed specifically for party planner entrepreneurs, featuring the latest market trends, operational best practices, and strategic tips for business expansion:

  • Event Planner Magazine: Offers comprehensive insights into event planning trends and business strategies. https://www.eventplannermagazine.com
  • International Live Events Association (ILEA): Provides industry reports, professional development resources, and a community for networking. https://www.ileahub.com
  • Special Events Blog: Features articles on event trends, case studies, and marketing tips for event professionals. https://www.specialevents.com/blog
  • Event MB: Offers free reports and articles on event technology, innovations, and event planning best practices. https://www.eventmanagerblog.com
  • Party & Event Planner Success Podcast: A podcast series delivering actionable advice and insights from industry experts. https://www.eventplanningsuccesspodcast.com
  • Catersource: Provides resources and training for caterers and event planners, including a conference and tradeshow. https://www.catersource.com

Starting a party planning business involves more than just a keen eye for detail and a penchant for organization; it also requires obtaining the appropriate licenses and permits to operate legally and professionally. These documents are essential to ensure that your business activities are in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. Below are the key licenses and permits you may need to acquire:

  • Business License: Check with your city or county government to apply for a general business license, which is the fundamental permit for operating a business in your area.
  • Employer Identification Number (EIN): If you plan to hire employees, you'll need to obtain an EIN from the IRS for tax purposes.
  • Event Permits: Certain events may require specific permits, especially if you're planning public gatherings or events that involve food, alcohol, music, or street closures.
  • Insurance: While not a permit or license, having liability insurance can protect your business from potential claims and is often required by venues and vendors.
  • Health and Safety Permits: If your party planning services include catering or setting up temporary food stations, you may need to acquire health department permits to ensure food safety.
  • Alcohol License: Selling or serving alcohol at events may necessitate a temporary or permanent alcohol license, depending on the laws in your area.

What licenses and permits are needed to run a party planner business?

Depending on the type and location of the party planner business, licenses and permits may include a business license, health department license, insurance, liquor license, sales tax permit, and any permits required for holding large events.

Opening a business bank account and securing funding are crucial steps in establishing a strong financial foundation for your party planner business. These steps not only help in managing your finances effectively but also in gaining credibility with vendors and clients. Here are some guidelines to assist you:

  • Research banks and credit unions to find the best business banking options that offer low fees, good customer service, and additional benefits such as online banking and mobile access.
  • Prepare the necessary documents to open a business bank account, which typically include your business license, EIN (Employer Identification Number), and Articles of Organization if you've formed an LLC or corporation.
  • Consider the different types of funding available to you, such as small business loans, business credit cards, lines of credit, or investors, and decide which source aligns best with your financial needs and business goals.
  • Create a solid business plan that outlines your party planning services, target market, marketing strategy, and financial projections to present to potential lenders or investors.
  • Explore local and federal government grants, as well as crowdfunding platforms, as potential funding sources that may offer a more favorable alternative to traditional loans.

Setting the right price for your party planning services is crucial to attract clients while ensuring your business is profitable. Consider the value you bring, your expertise, and the market rates. Below are key points to guide you in establishing your pricing:

  • Analyze the Market: Research your competitors' pricing to understand the going rates for similar services in your area.
  • Costs and Expenses: Calculate all your business costs, including supplies, labor, and overhead, to ensure your prices cover these expenses.
  • Value-Based Pricing: Consider the value of your unique offerings and experience when setting prices; premium services can command higher fees.
  • Pricing Models: Decide whether to charge a flat fee, an hourly rate, or a percentage of the party budget. Each model has its pros and cons.
  • Package Deals: Create service packages with tiered pricing to cater to different client needs and budgets.
  • Flexibility: Be prepared to negotiate with clients but know your minimum acceptable rate to maintain profitability.
  • Transparency: Clearly communicate what is included in your pricing to avoid misunderstandings and build trust with clients.

What does it cost to start a Party Planner business?

Initiating a party planner business can involve substantial financial commitment, the scale of which is significantly influenced by factors such as geographical location, market dynamics, and operational expenses, among others. Nonetheless, our extensive research and hands-on experience have revealed an estimated starting cost of approximately $6500 for launching such an business. Please note, not all of these costs may be necessary to start up your party planner business.

Starting a party planning business requires gathering the right tools and supplies to ensure every event is a hit. From decorations to organizational tools, equipping yourself with the essentials will make your job easier and your events more memorable. Here's what you'll need to get started:

  • Basic Planning Supplies: Notebooks, planners, pens, and folders to keep your planning details organized.
  • Event Decor: A variety of decorations such as balloons, streamers, tablecloths, and centerpieces that can cater to different party themes.
  • Tableware: Disposable or reusable plates, cups, napkins, and cutlery for serving guests.
  • Sound System: Portable speakers or a PA system for music and announcements.
  • Lighting Equipment: String lights, LED candles, or spotlights to enhance the ambiance.
  • Furniture: Foldable tables and chairs for guest seating and food display.
  • Catering Supplies: Serving trays, utensils, chafing dishes, and beverage dispensers.
  • Entertainment Items: Games, props, and activities suitable for various age groups and party themes.
  • Transportation: A reliable vehicle to transport supplies to and from event locations.
  • Software: Event management software for guest lists, floor plans, and schedules.

List of Software, Tools and Supplies Needed to Start a Party Planner Business:

  • Computer and Printer
  • Business Software (Accounting, Invoicing, Budgeting)
  • Party Planning Software (Theme Design, Event Scheduling, Checklists)
  • Party Supplies (Decorations, Tablecloths, Tableware, etc.)
  • Party Favors
  • Party Entertainment (DJs, Bands, Magicians, etc.)
  • Advertising Materials (Flyers, Business Cards, etc.)
  • Photography Equipment (Camera, Lighting, etc.)
  • Website Design Tools
  • Social Media Tools

As you embark on your journey as a party planner, safeguarding your business with the right insurance is a crucial step. Insurance not only protects your financial stability but also provides peace of mind for you and your clients. Here are some key insurance types to consider:

  • General Liability Insurance: Covers third-party bodily injury and property damage claims, which could arise during an event.
  • Professional Liability Insurance: Also known as Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance, it protects against claims of negligence or failure to deliver services as promised.
  • Business Property Insurance: Protects your office space, equipment, and inventory against theft, damage, or loss.
  • Workers' Compensation Insurance: Required if you have employees, to cover medical costs and lost wages for work-related injuries or illnesses.
  • Event Cancellation Insurance: Helps recoup lost expenses if an event you're planning is unexpectedly canceled or postponed.
  • Commercial Auto Insurance: Essential if you have a vehicle dedicated to your business, to cover damages from accidents during work-related trips.

Consult with an insurance broker to tailor a policy that fits the unique risks associated with your party planning business.

Now that you've set the groundwork for your party planner business, it's time to get the word out and attract clients. Marketing your services effectively is crucial to your success. Here are some strategies to help you start promoting your party planning services:

  • Develop a Strong Online Presence: Create a professional website and active social media profiles to showcase your portfolio, client testimonials, and services offered.
  • Network: Attend local events, join community groups, and connect with other vendors in the industry to build relationships and gain referrals.
  • Offer Promotions: Entice new customers with introductory offers, discounts for referrals, or package deals for different types of events.
  • Collaborate with Vendors: Partner with caterers, venues, and entertainment providers to create mutual referral programs.
  • Local Advertising: Advertise in local magazines, newspapers, and on community bulletin boards. Consider sponsoring local events for added visibility.
  • Collect Testimonials: Encourage satisfied clients to provide testimonials that you can use in your marketing materials and on your website.

Once your party planning business is well-established and you're ready to take the next step, expansion is the way to go. Here are some strategies that can help you grow your business and take it to new heights:

  • Explore niche markets: Look for untapped areas within the party planning industry, such as corporate events, destination weddings, or eco-friendly parties.
  • Build strategic partnerships: Connect with vendors, venues, and other event planners to create a network that can offer more comprehensive services to clients.
  • Invest in marketing: Increase your online presence through social media, optimize your website for search engines, and consider paid advertising to reach a wider audience.
  • Expand your team: Hire additional staff or freelancers with specialized skills to handle increased demand and offer new services.
  • Diversify your offerings: Introduce new services like virtual event planning, party supply rentals, or personalized party favors to differentiate your business.
  • Franchise your business: If your brand is strong and your business model is replicable, consider franchising to allow others to open branches under your brand name.
  • PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
  • EDIT Edit this Article
  • EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
  • Browse Articles
  • Learn Something New
  • Quizzes Hot
  • This Or That Game New
  • Train Your Brain
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
  • Finance and Business
  • Business by Industry
  • Hospitality and Tourism Businesses

How to Start a Party Planning Business

Last Updated: January 12, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Rachel Weinshanker . Rachel Weinshanker is a Certified Event and Wedding Planner and the Owner of San Diego Life Events, an award-winning wedding and event planning business based in San Diego, California. Rachel has over eight years of event planning experience, and her work has been featured in many notable publications. San Diego Life Events has been awarded the Wedding Wire Couple's Choice Award in 2018, 2019, and 2020. Rachel is a graduate from San Diego State University. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 15 testimonials and 83% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 237,982 times.

A party planning business can be a fulfilling and profitable opportunity for someone who is social, organized, detail-oriented, and has a flair for entertaining and coordinating events. Unlike other startups, a party planning business does not require much capital or dedicated space. However, figuring out how to start a party planning business does require some basic steps that are similar to all home based ventures, as well as those that are unique to the field.

Starting Out

Step 1 Choose a name for your business.

  • Search online and use the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's trademark search tool (or your country's equivalent) to check potential names against existing trademarks. [1] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Small Business Administration U.S. government agency focused on supporting small businesses Go to source
  • You will may need to register your company as a "Doing Business As" name with your state or county government. Consult local business laws to find out. [2] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Small Business Administration U.S. government agency focused on supporting small businesses Go to source

Step 2 Register your new business if necessary.

  • Double-check with your state and local government before you start doing any business. You could run into legal trouble if you aren’t properly registered.

Step 3 Set up your office.

  • You may choose to rent out a permanent office space or a temporary meeting room when seeing clients.
  • Many professionals who work from home see clients in public spaces, such as a coffee shop or restaurant. [3] X Research source

Step 4 Set yourself apart from your competition.

  • Early on, take as many jobs as you can. This will help you establish a reputation as a great planner, which is a great way to set yourself apart!

Step 5 Price your services properly.

  • Look at how your competition prices their services to get a good sense for the range in your area.
  • How much experience do you have? A planner with previous professional party planning experience will command a higher rate than an unseasoned planner.
  • To attract clients, you may have to start out low and gradually raise your prices over time as you gain a positive reputation.
  • Most planners will charge a 15% commission per vendor. For example, if you find and hire the florist, you could charge 15% of their cost as a fee. [4] X Research source

Step 6 Be flexible and prepare for the unexpected.

  • This is especially important when planning outdoor events. Always have a backup plan for inclement weather!

Making a Plan for Your Business

Step 1 Figure out what kind of party planner you would like to be.

  • The two most popular types of party planner are corporate and social. Corporate party planners organize events for companies, while social planners focus on weddings, birthday parties, etc.
  • Many party planners pick a niche based on what they enjoy the most. This can be a specific type of event or a unique style you offer.
  • Most party planners either focus exclusively on children’s parties or only offer services for adult parties. [6] X Research source

Step 2 Consider your education and background.

  • Study your local competition. If there’s something you can do that they can’t, you can gain a big competitive advantage!
  • Establish relationships with local caterers, suppliers, entertainers, and venue owners. It will be your job to organize and coordinate these disparate elements to create a memorable event.

Step 5 Write a business...

  • Using your market research, determine the rates you will charge for your services. Don’t undercharge, but aim to set competitive rates.
  • Estimate your startup costs and secure funding. If you can’t fund the business yourself, you may need to take out a small loan or find investors. [12] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Small Business Administration U.S. government agency focused on supporting small businesses Go to source

Growing Your Business

Step 1 Market your business effectively.

  • Make sure your website is aesthetically pleasing and easy to navigate. Try to have your company's name and contact information written clearly on each page.
  • Create flyers that show off your graphic design skills. Distribute them door to door and ask local businesses to display them on their corkboard.
  • Tell family and friends about your new business and ask you to recommend you to anyone they know who is looking for a party planner.

Step 2 Have a strong social media presence.

  • Actively and directly engaging with customers will show them that you care. Respond to folks when they comment on your posts or ask questions.
  • Use hashtags to target specific areas or holidays. For example, if you want to advertise your services for a Halloween party in Chicago, you could use #HalloweenCHI.
  • Showcase your talents by uploading photos and videos of successful parties you have planned. Be sure to always obtain express written permission from your clients if they are featured in them.

Step 3 Solicit reviews from your clients.

  • Register (or claim) your accounts on the applicable review sites that people use in your area.
  • Address any concerns or negative reviews honestly and maturely. Remember, these posts may be a first impression for potential future clients.

Step 4 Volunteer your services.

  • Always be on the lookout to make contact with new vendors the area. You never know when a client may request a specific type of food or performer.
  • Attend event planning trade shows to meet other planners and service providers.
  • Trade shows are also an opportunity to learn about new trends and developments in the industry.

Expert Q&A

Rachel Weinshanker

  • While most party planners handle administrative duties themselves, if your business takes off you may choose to hire an assistant. Even though event planning is an extremely low-risk job, you will likely need to purchase workers' compensation insurance. Check your local laws. [13] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Make sure to have some experience planning parties casually before you commit to starting a business. Not everyone is suited for this surprisingly stressful occupation. Unless you're very talented, it can be difficult to make party planning a career. Know what you're getting into before investing the time and money to create a company. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

how to start business party planning

You Might Also Like

Start a Small Business

  • ↑ https://www.sba.gov/content/how-name-business
  • ↑ https://www.sba.gov/content/register-your-fictitious-or-doing-business-dba-name
  • ↑ http://www.businessknowhow.com/homeoffice/clientmeetings.htm
  • ↑ http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/233684
  • ↑ [v161267_b02]. 11 February 2020.
  • ↑ http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/37892
  • ↑ http://www.besthospitalitydegrees.com/faq/what-kind-of-degree-is-helpful-to-become-an-event-planner
  • ↑ http://www.mpiweb.org/ProfessionalDevelopment
  • ↑ http://learningpath.org/articles/Becoming_a_Party_Planner_Job_Description_Salary_Information.html
  • ↑ https://www.sba.gov/content/what-state-licenses-and-permits-does-your-business-need
  • ↑ https://www.sba.gov/content/company-description
  • ↑ https://www.sba.gov/content/funding-request
  • ↑ http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/79594

About This Article

Rachel Weinshanker

To start a party planning business, start by figuring out what kind of clients and events you’d like to focus on. Additionally, do some research on the party planning industry where you live so you can think about how to set yourself apart. Next, write a business plan detailing exactly what niche you plan to fill and how you plan to accomplish this. Then, pick an unambiguous name for your business that lets potential clients know exactly what type of services you provide. You'll also want to check your state's laws to find out if you need to register your business. To learn how to market your new business on social media sites, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

  • Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Jody Pather

Jody Pather

Jun 10, 2016

Did this article help you?

how to start business party planning

Christina Hunt

Jul 16, 2017

Barbara Reiber

Barbara Reiber

Jun 24, 2016

Julie Woolary

Julie Woolary

Jun 6, 2016

Cindy Leonard

Cindy Leonard

May 5, 2016

Am I a Narcissist or an Empath Quiz

Featured Articles

Start a Text Conversation with a Girl

Trending Articles

How to Take the Perfect Thirst Trap

Watch Articles

Wrap a Round Gift

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve

  • Starting a Business
  • Growing a Business
  • Business News
  • Science & Technology
  • Money & Finance
  • Subscribers For Subscribers
  • Store Entrepreneur Store
  • Spotlight Spotlight
  • United States
  • Asia Pacific
  • Middle East
  • South Africa

Copyright © 2024 Entrepreneur Media, LLC All rights reserved. Entrepreneur® and its related marks are registered trademarks of Entrepreneur Media LLC

JUST RELEASED: View the 2024 Franchise 500 Ranking

How to Start an Event Planning Service Want to be an event planner but not sure how to start your own event planning service? Discover how to start this business in our step-by-step guide.

Some people get a lot of personal and professional joy out of making big events and special days even better for their attendees. If you have the hosting itch, and if you love to tackle complex problems and make big days go smoothly, you might have a future as a professional event planner.

But whether you choose to work alone or with a small team, starting an event planning service is no small task. Today, let's break down how to start an event planning service step-by-step.

What are the basics of event planning?

Event planning is the art (and sometimes science) of event ideation, planning, coordination and operation. When a big, important event needs to go smoothly, it's time to call an event planning service or coordinator.

Event planners are key service providers who can ensure event production and execution happens smoothly. They perform these duties for trade shows, senior events, nonprofit galas and much more.

Related: Find Your Event-Planning Niche

Event planning is most often used for purposes like:

  • Big educational meetings, like graduations or conferences.
  • Major promotions, like marketing events, product launches and fashion shows.
  • Corporate events, like after-work cocktail hours, galas, etc.
  • Celebrations and social events like parades, weddings, birthdays, reunions, etc.

Event planning is highly important to make sure the above and other major events go off without a hitch, especially so that the most important guests can enjoy themselves.

The primary duties of full-time or part-time, on-site event planner jobs include:

  • Doing research prior to the big event.
  • Event design and team-building for project management.
  • Finding the appropriate site for the event.
  • Creating event budgets and running fundraisers if necessary.
  • Arranging for decor, entertainment and food for the event.
  • Sending invitations to potential attendees.
  • Planning transportation for attendees to and from the event.
  • Arranging any other necessary accommodations, like seating.
  • Coordinating activities for event personnel, like caterers or entertainers.
  • Supervising activities at the event site.

The events industry, both for wedding planning and other events, requires good communication skills. Additionally, obtaining a bachelor's degree in public relations or related areas can be helpful but is not absolutely required. Let's look closer at this job type and business.

Why do people hire event planning services?

People primarily hire event planning services for two reasons:

  • So that event-goers and guests of honor can enjoy themselves without focusing on the event.
  • So that the event in question goes smoothly.

Imagine a typical example of a wedding. Many engaged couples hire event planners or event planning services to coordinate, organize and carry out their wedding plans. In this way, the couples can enjoy their special days and focus on getting married rather than worrying about things like catering, parking and kicking out rowdy guests. Instead, the wedding planner takes care of that stuff.

Furthermore, some events are so complex – particularly those with hundreds of guests or more – that it's almost impossible to properly plan and organize them without the help of a specialist. Knowledgeable, experienced event planners know how to organize groups of people, how much food to provide and other details that can make or break an important event.

Related: The Price Is Right: Turning a Profit in the Event Planning Business

Who should become an event planner?

You might consider becoming an event planner if you love hosting parties and the thrill of organizing a complex event and running it without an issue. Planners often have to handle many moving parts at once. Many event planners have histories as managers or coordinators in other industries. You should become an event planner or start your own event planning service if you feel that you would enjoy this kind of work.

It's also worth noting that event planning often requires you to work on weekends or holidays (since these are the days when people have free time to schedule and hold events), as well as handle chaotic, sometimes confusing work and competing agendas. You should also consider acquiring certification for your event planning service, as it can help you acquire relevant professional skills and attract more job opportunities . Meeting Professionals International (MPI) is an association that offers a list of degrees and certificates from colleges and universities. The right degree or certification can lead to more job opportunities and even pave the way to a higher salary.

Alternatively, try to become a CSEP or Certified Special Events Professional or CMP or Certified Meeting Planner. Both of these are given out by the MPI or the ISES (International Special Events Society), which also highlight your skills and designate you as an expert event coordinator.

Now that we've covered the basics, let's get into the steps you need to take to start an event planning service:

Step 1: Make your company

Your first step involves making your company and filing the right paperwork. You should first draw up a business plan, which will include details like:

  • The business's name.
  • The business's tax structure (like a sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.).
  • How you'll make a profit.

Related: Check out these business plan templates to get started.

You'll also want to get an EIN, or employer identification number. This will allow you to hire employees for your event planning service if you desire later down the road.

How to Start an Event Planning Service

Step 2: Choose your target market

Next, do market research and pick the target market you want to work for. For instance, if you want to primarily work with weddings, you need to research that target market to know how much to charge for your services, what's involved and what you need to be experienced in.

By doing some research ahead of time, you won't find running your first events to be too overwhelming. You'll also know how much to advertise your event planning service to be competitive relative to other services in the area.

Step 3: Consider startup costs

When you start an event planning business, you'll have to consider startup costs. Working from home or primarily by yourself will keep costs low as opposed to hiring employees (who will require salaries).

However, if you want to expand your event planning business, you'll eventually need extra equipment, business premises like an office or warehouse and more. All of these things can add up, impacting the kind of business you begin.

Note that you can always scale your business after acquiring steady work. For instance, you can start off as a one-man event planning service that only provides services to small events you can tackle by yourself. After you save up some money from some successful jobs, you can hire a few more employees and rent out a warehouse for your equipment, like cameras, chairs and more.

Step 4: Understand the work involved and hire employees (optional)

For your event planning service to be successful , you need to fully grasp the nature of the work involved and understand whether you should hire employees.

Planning and executing an excellent event generally involves:

  • Designing the event, which means sketching out the feel or look of the event in question. Some clients will have very specific ideas you'll need to incorporate into the design.
  • Putting together a proposal for your clients so they can improve your plans.
  • Organizing the event, which involves almost everything else, like renting the site for the event, hiring vendors, hiring entertainers, organizing caterers and much more.

There's a ton of work that goes into planning even the smallest event. Fortunately, as you acquire experience, you'll be more adept at anticipating and completing this work.

Related: The Event Planning Recipe for Success

Generally, the larger the events you want to manage and coordinate, the more employees you need to hire. At a certain point, you can't be everywhere at once! Consider hiring employees when you have the cash to do so; this will allow you to plan events for larger groups of people and make more of a profit.

Step 5: Settle on a price structure and fee basis

How you price your event planning business will impact how often you get requests. You can determine your pricing structure and fee basis by things like:

  • The market segment you serve: For instance, social events usually have different fee structures than corporate events.
  • Your geographic location: If you have a higher cost of living, you are justified in charging your clients more to plan their events.
  • Your experience and reputation: As your business gets a reputation for success, you'll be able to charge a higher premium for your services.

Step 6: Start marketing your event planning service

Once you have all of your ducks in a row and you know how to charge your clients, you can start marketing your event planning service. Do this online through Google PPC (pay-per-click) ads, social media marketing and other efforts. Don't hesitate to use in-person marketing materials, like posters or TV ads, as well.

Related: 8 Savvy Ways to Promote Your Event Planning Business

As you can see, starting an event planning service is a matter of preparation and deep consideration. If you plan everything properly, your event planning service will launch smoothly, and you'll get your first batch of clients in no time.

Check out Entrepreneur's other guides and resources today!

Editor's Pick Red Arrow

  • I Tried 3 AI Headshot Generators and There Was a Clear Winner
  • Lock These Are the Highest-Paying Side Hustles for a Single Day of Work
  • An Outpost of a Popular Buffet Chain Has Racked Up Tens of Millions of Views on Social Media. Here's How It Keeps Going Viral .
  • Lock I Biohacked My Way to Better Mood, Sleep and Job Performance — and You Can, Too. Here's How.
  • SMART Goals May Be Holding You Back — Try This Effective Goal-Setting Technique Instead
  • Taco Bell Wants to Be More than a Late-Night Spot as It Unveils New Menu Items for 2024 : 'A Rebel Brand at Our Core'

Related Topics Red Arrow

Most popular red arrow, she bought 9 properties and became an airbnb super host. here's how she scaled her side hustle while keeping her full-time job..

Q&A with an Airbnb Super Host who shares her best secrets to help you scale.

These Age-Old Monk Practices Can Help You Lead a More Focused, Productive and Creative Life

Buddhist and Benedictine monks have some ancient habits that every hard-working entrepreneur should know.

'These People Didn't Do Anything Wrong,' But Their Standard of Living Might Plummet in Retirement — Here's Why

Most American workers feel behind where they think they should be on their retirement savings.

'I Want a Free Month': Thousands of Customers Furious at AT&T After Widespread Outages

The carrier has not yet disclosed the root cause of the issue.

He Started a Side Hustle in His Parents' Basement and Won Big on Richard Branson's TV Show. The Business Saw Over $650 Million in Annual Revenue Last Year.

Shawn Nelson, founder and CEO of furniture manufacturer Lovesac, thought it would be "funny to make a giant beanbag chair."

Want to Start a Billion-Dollar Business? Look to These Two Industries, Which Have the Most Unicorn Growth

During a tough fundraising year overall last year, the value of cybersecurity and AI unicorns saw double-digit growth.

Successfully copied link

comscore

QC Event School

Business , Your Event Career

How To Start a Party Planning Business in 12 Steps

So, you want to start a business as a party planner? That’s great! Party planning is a fun and exciting industry, and there’s a LOT of potential for success in this field. However, if you want to learn how to start a party planning business, it’s important to remember that it won’t be easy. It actually takes hard work, dedication, and lots of elbow grease to make it in this competitive industry.

But don’t worry – we’re here to help!

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to start a party planning business in 12 easy steps, right from scratch. We’ll cover topics like choosing the right niche, building your brand, creating a business plan, and more.

So, let’s jump right into it!

What is a party planner.

A party planner is someone who plans, organizes and runs events for their clients. They’re responsible for all aspects of the event, from planning to execution. A successful party planner should have exceptional organizational skills and be able to handle any type of event – from birthdays, baby showers, and anniversaries to corporate events and weddings.

PRO TIP: Discover the full range of what a party planner does so you have a clear idea of what you can expect!

The benefits of starting your own party planning business.

Starting your own party planning business has tons of potential rewards! It gives you the opportunity to be creative, work with clients and build relationships, and make a good living. Plus, when you’re your own boss, you have the freedom to choose how much or how little you want to work – giving you more flexibility than working for someone else!

What Are the Steps to Starting a Party Planning Business?

Starting any business is no easy feat, and that’s especially true when it comes to party planning. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication if you want to make it in this competitive industry. But don’t worry – if you’re willing to put in the effort, we have the perfect guide to help you get started…

1. Choose Your Niche

The first step is to decide what kind of parties you want to specialize in. This is also called finding your niche . Think about the types of events that interest you and the ones you have experience with – this will help narrow your focus so that you can build a successful business.

For instance, as a professional party planner, you can specialize in any of the following types of parties:

  • Baby showers
  • Corporate events
  • Anniversaries
  • Engagement parties
  • Bridal showers
  • Bachelor parties
  • Graduation parties
  • Retirement parties
  • And SO much more!

2. Get Professionally Trained as a Party Planner

It’s essential that you have the right skills to be a successful party planner! When you have proper training and a legit certification on your resume, it gives your clients confidence in your ability to deliver a great experience. As a result, you’ll be able to:

  • Book more clients
  • Network more successfully
  • Offer better party planning services
  • Stand out from your competition
  • Make better money

Not to mention, the right certification course will also give you some business training, too. Since you’re here because you want to know how to start a party planning business, this is obviously a must!

So, consider getting professional training in event planning and take courses offered by reputable organizations like the QC Event School .

PRO TIP: If you’re looking to be a party planner, we recommend QC Event School’s self-paced, online Event & Wedding Planning Course ! This 7-unit program can arm you with a globally-recognized International Event and Wedding Planning Professional™ (IEWP®) certification in as little as 3 short months!

How to start a party planning business in-post image 1

3. Know Who Your Target Audience Is

Now that you know what type of parties you’re going to specialize in, it’s time to figure out who your target audience is. Consider demographic factors like age, gender, location, and income level. How old are they? Are they married or single? What type of events do they usually host? How much money can they spend on a party planner?

By understanding these details, you’ll get a better idea of who your ideal client is and be able to tailor your services, brand, marketing efforts, and overall business accordingly!

4. Build Your Brand

Once you know what kind of parties you want to specialize in and you’ve been professionally trained, it’s time to start building your brand . As a business owner, your brand is what will make you unique and stand out from competitors.

In a nutshell, it’s that special thing that will help convince clients to book with YOU instead of somebody else!

So, think about how you want to present yourself and your business to potential clients. For example, do you want a fun and colorful brand or a more sophisticated vibe? How do you want to come across in your messaging and marketing materials? What kind of logo and website do you want? How will you capture the attention of your target market?

These are all key questions to consider when building your brand. From there, make sure your brand (and its visual identity) remains consistent across ALL of your marketing materials. This includes:

  • Your website
  • Social media accounts for your party planning business
  • Business cards
  • The tone of voice you use whenever speaking (both online and in-person)
  • Emails, etc.

5. Know Where You Plan To Run Your Business From

As a party planner, you have numerous options in terms of where you want to operate your business. For instance, you can run it from home or rent a space in an office building. Or, you can also become a virtual party planner and offer your services online.

It all depends on your preferences and budget, but whatever you decide – make sure it allows you to accommodate all of the necessary party planning supplies and materials. That way, you can provide the best possible service for your clients!

Interested in virtual party planning? Learn everything you need to know in less than a month with the help of QC’s Virtual Events Training mini course !

6. set your party planning service rates.

When starting a party planning business, you want to make sure that you set the right price for your services. Depending on what kind of parties you specialize in and the amount of time required to plan them (not to mention the cost of materials), your rates may vary from client to client.

So, it’s a good idea to have a few different pricing options available, such as hourly rates or flat-fee packages. Just make sure that whatever you decide to charge your clients is both competitive and fair for the market you are serving in.

Remember: you don’t want to undersell your services – but you don’t want to overcharge for them either!

7. Create Your Party Planning Business Plan

Creating a business plan is the next step in starting your business as a party planner. A business plan is like a roadmap that outlines the key details of your business, including:

  • Your mission statement
  • An executive summary of your party planning business
  • Short-term and long-term goals
  • A SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats)
  • A detailed description of the services you offer
  • Your target market
  • Competitor analysis
  • Financial highlights and future projections
  • Marketing and advertising plans
  • And so forth!

There are several reasons why you should develop a business plan. For starters, it’ll help you articulate your strategy for success and gain the confidence of any potential investors (such as a bank). It’ll also serve as a reference guide if ever need to make changes down the line.

At the end of the day, though, it’s important to remember that your business plan is unique to your business’s needs and objectives. Furthermore, it should also be reviewed and updated regularly as your business evolves and grows.

Need help writing your business plan for the first time? Small Business Administration has an article that breaks the process down into more detail – and even offers a couple examples to better help you visualize what you should be doing!

Table setting at a luxury wedding and Beautiful flowers on the table. wedding decor, flowers, pink and gold decor, candles. Festive table decor. Party planning business article.

7. Get the Necessary Licenses and Insurance for Your Party Planning Business

When starting a party planning business, you’ll need to obtain the necessary licenses and insurance. The type of license you’ll need will depend on your location and the services you offer as a party planner.

Generally, though, some of the licenses you may require include:

  • Business License
  • Liquor License (if applicable)
  • Food Handler’s Certificat e (if applicable)

In terms of insurance coverage, this will vary depending on the type of activities and services you offer as a party planner. At the very least, you should look into getting general liability insurance to protect yourself from any potential claims or lawsuits.

You can also speak with an insurance broker to discuss more specialized coverage that may be suited for your business (such as event cancellation/rain insurance).

8. Get Some Experience Under Your Belt

Unless you already have some experience planning events, it’s a good idea to get some practice before launching your party planning business.

This could involve taking on some volunteer projects or low-budget gigs at first. That way, you’ll have the opportunity to gain more experience and build up a portfolio of successful parties to showcase!

Another awesome idea is to take part in a stylized photoshoot . Working with a photographer and stylist, you can create a few mock parties to provide potential clients with visuals of what they might expect when working with your business. No, you probably won’t get paid to organize a styled shoot – however, the high-quality content you can then use in your portfolio will be worth its weight in gold!

Lastly, another idea for getting real-world experience is to turn to people you know, such as friends and family. Offer to plan small gatherings and get-togethers, or even help out with other people’s events. This will give you the opportunity to learn more about the industry, even if it isn’t in a paid capacity.

9. Put Together a Solid Professional Portfolio

Your professional portfolio should be the envy of any potential client. Therefore, it’s important to put together one that stands out and is reflective of your skills as a party planner!

How To Build a Party Planning Portfolio

When building your portfolio, make sure to include visuals of any parties you have organized in the past and provide details such as:

  • Short description of the event
  • Purpose of the event
  • Goals/objectives achieved
  • Challenges faced
  • Details of how you overcame them
  • How you exceeded expectations (if applicable)

The more detail and visuals you can include in your portfolio, the better. After all, it will give potential clients a good idea of what they can expect when working with you!

10. Build Your Business Website and Social Media Presence

Creating an online presence is necessary for any business, especially if you’re starting a party planning business. This will help potential clients discover your services and showcase your work online.

Your Website

When setting up your website, make sure to include information about yourself (including experience and qualifications), the types of services you offer, and examples of past work. You can also create some sort of booking service/application form on your website to make it easier for potential clients to get in touch with you.

Social Media Accounts

In addition to your website, you’ll also want to set up a presence on the various social media platforms, such as:

This will help build an online community and increase awareness of your business. You can then post pictures from past events, details about upcoming parties you’re planning, industry advice, and other awesome types of content. Just make sure that you’re posting on a regular basis and always replying back to anyone who comments or DMs you!

11. Determine (and Implement) Your Marketing Strategies

Having a solid marketing strategy is key to the success of any business, so it’s essential that you come up with one for your party planning business too. How will you reach potential clients and how are you going to market yourself?

Some ideas include:

  • Creating online ads (Google AdWords, Facebook Ads, etc.)
  • Making use of influencer marketing
  • Working with local media outlets (newspapers, TV, etc.)
  • Maximizing email campaigns
  • Attending industry events and networking
  • Creating a newsletter
  • Utilizing traditional outdoor advertising (billboards, flyers, etc.)

Real talk: your marketing strategy can be the very thing that makes or breaks your party planning business. I know, no pressure, right? We’re not trying to freak you out or anything… But seriously, make sure to think through your strategies and come up with ones that fit your budget and target audience!

How to start a party planning business in-post image 3

11. Start Networking

Networking is another important step in the process of starting a party planning business. The reason for this is quite simple: networking will help you get the word out about your services, as well as give you the opportunity to learn from other party planners.

So, how should you network?

Well, the best way to network is to attend industry events and meet-ups. Here, you can make connections with other professionals in the field, share ideas, and learn from each other. You can also join online forums, groups, and association to continue building up your network.

12. Keep Learning and Stay Up-to-Date With Industry Trends

Finally, in order to stay relevant and up-to-date with the latest industry trends, it’s important to set aside time to continually be learning.

This may include attending workshops or seminars related to party planning, reading books and articles from experienced professionals in the field, or subscribing to industry websites/blogs for updates. By doing this, you’ll be able to stay on top of the latest trends and make sure that your parties are always ahead of the curve!

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that you know how to start a party planning business from scratch, let’s answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this journey:

Q: How much does it cost to build a professional party planning business?

A: How much you have to invest in your business depends on what kind of services you plan to offer and how much overhead costs (such as rent, utilities, advertising, etc.) you have to pay. Generally speaking, the cost of starting a party planning business can range from a few hundred dollars up to tens of thousands, depending on your budget.

Q: Can you start a business as a party planner while earning your certification, or should you wait until you’re certified?

A: That’s really up to you! If you’re confident in your skills and have enough experience, then there’s no reason why you can’t start building your party planning business while you’re still earning your certification. However, if you’re feeling overwhelmed or don’t have enough experience yet, it may be best to wait until you finish the certification process before jumping in.

Q: How long does it take to start a party planning business?

A: How long it takes to start a party planning business really depends on how much research, planning and preparation you’re willing to put in. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the type of services you offer and how quickly you want to get started. Once you have a plan of action and have taken the necessary steps to bring your business vision to life, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful party planner!

Q: How long should you expect to wait before seeing a profit?

A: It again depends on a few factors, such as the types of services you offer, how much time and effort you’re willing to invest in the business, and how much of a budget you’ve allocated for marketing and promotion. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from a few months to a year before you start seeing consistent profits.

Q: Is party planning a good side hustle?

A: Absolutely! Party planning is a great side hustle for people who love planning events and have an eye for detail. It’s also a great way to make a part-time income without having to take on full-time hours. Plus, as your business grows, you can always consider taking on more clients, expanding your services, and making your business a full-time endeavor down the road.

Q: How much do party planners make per year?

There’s no definitive answer to this question as every party planner’s income is dependent on their services, expenses, and how many events they take on. Generally speaking, though, ZipRecruiter reports that party planners in the United States alone tend to make anywhere from $13,500 to $79,500 USD annually.

Q: What are some must-have supplies that all party planners need?

A: Some of the most important supplies you should have as a party planner include things like decorative items, catering supplies, sound systems/PA equipment, and event planning software. These will help you ensure that all of your parties are well-prepared, organized, and run smoothly.

In terms of running your party planning business, we recommend investing in the following items:

  • A business plan
  • A registered business name
  • Organization tools, such as a calendar and daily planner
  • A proper website domain
  • Marketing materials (flyers, brochures)
  • Accounting software
  • And any necessary legal documents such as insurance, contracts, etc.

PRO TIP: Check out our full list of the BEST tools to help you grow your party planning business successfully!

Q: where can you buy party planning supplies.

A: You can buy party planning supplies from a variety of suppliers, both online and in-person. Online stores such as Amazon or Party City are great resources for finding decorations, catering supplies, sound equipment, and more. Local party supply stores can also provide you with everything you need to make your parties memorable.

Q: How do party planners get clients?

A: The best way to get clients as a party planner is through networking and building relationships. You can start by attending local events or industry conferences and introducing yourself to potential clients. Additionally, you should also consider marketing your services on social media platforms such as Facebook or Instagram.

Another business-savvy way to attract and book clients is by offering them some sort of pricing incentive. For example, you could offer discounts on services or free consultations in exchange for referrals. This will help build your reputation, and it’s a great way to get new clients.

Finally, don’t forget about word of mouth! Ask friends and family to spread the word about your business and refer you to anyone who’s looking for a party planner.

Table setting. A woman decorates the table for the holiday. High quality photo. Party planning business article.

Hopefully, this guide has given you all the information you need to start a successful party planning business from scratch. When it comes down to it, running a successful business is all about staying organized and having the right resources at your disposal. With the right planning, dedication, and effort, you can turn your party planning business into a thriving success!

Become a party planner in as little as 12 short weeks by starting your self-paced, online certification training with QC Event School. Enroll today !

Next article.

how to start business party planning

Search by Category About the School Business Corporate Event Planning DIY Education Event Decor Event Planning Tips Featured Floral Design Free Resources From the Experts General Tips Graduate Features Helpful Resources Planning Tips Quiz Student Ambassador Student/Graduate Features Uncategorized Wedding Planning Tips Your Event Career

Search by Author Sarah Seguin Celina Feng Ana Scholtes Katie Deck Victoria Begin Mireille Pitre Alicia Haniford Alison Kasko Danielle McIntyre Gillian Hogerland Corina Wan Mwai Yeboah Erin Siksay Tamesha Antria QC Career School Kate DeCastro Nicole Thielmann Neena McConnell Amira Harris Katherine Dionne Afton Romrell Carissa Corsi Catherine Hammond Jenny Alperin Shawniece Evins Amanda Thompson Maggie Soares Alex Monteiro Lauren Ballinger

Featured Posts:

Qc event school graduate spotlight: ayla otto.

how to start business party planning

Meet QC Event School Graduate, Carisa Lockery!

Industry spotlight: mwai yeboah, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Business Ideas
  • Registered Agents

How to Start a Party Planning Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   February 22, 2024

BusinessGuru.co is reader-supported. When you buy through links on my site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

The party industry is growing in leaps and bounds around the globe. With a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.8% from 2023 to 2032, now is a great time to start a party planning business.

how to start business party planning

This guide will explain how to start a party planning business. Topics include market research, competitive analysis, startup costs, registering an EIN, applying for business insurance, and more.

With demand increasing across the board, from budget-friendly to luxury, there is ample opportunity to carve out your niche. If helping people mark life’s special moments sounds like your dream job, read on for everything you need to start your own party planning business.

1. Conduct Party Planning Market Research

Market research is important for an event planner hoping to craft a successful business plan. As a new event planning company, you should know about your target market, local market saturation, trending event planning services in the event planning industry, and more.

how to start business party planning

Some of the details you’ll learn through market research for your own event planning business include:

  • Several factors are driving this growth. Busy professionals with more disposable income hire planners to pull off events they don’t have time to organize.
  • Parents are enlisting many event planners to create Instagram-worthy birthday parties for their kids. And milestone events like weddings, reunions, and corporate gatherings require professional help more than ever.
  • While the luxury party planning market is saturated, there remains ample opportunity in the budget-friendly space.

To start an event planning company, planners should target various niches:

  • Weddings: Especially budget-friendly packages under $2,000.
  • Kids’ birthdays: Focus on themes like dinosaurs, princesses, and superheroes.
  • Corporate events: Pitch one-stop services from choosing a venue to arranging catering.
  • Holiday parties: Help clients throw stylish Christmas, Halloween, and other themed events.
  • Showers: Baby showers, bridal showers, retirement parties.
  • Reunions: Help plan school, family, or military reunions.

With demand increasing across segments, the party and wedding planning industry provides fertile ground for entrepreneurs to launch all types of event planning businesses. By identifying a specific niche and effectively marketing services, new planners can steadily grow their clientele and bottom line.

2. Analyze the Competition

Thoroughly analyzing the competition is critical when starting a party planning company. Here are tips to assess competitor event planners both in your local area and online:

  • For brick-and-mortar competitors, identify planners located nearby.
  • Visit their websites and social media pages to evaluate services offered, pricing, and types of events planned.
  • Note their years in business, reviews, and repeat clients to gauge customer satisfaction.
  • Observe their branding and marketing to see if a niche is being underserved.
  • To evaluate online competitors, research major planning sites that allow vendors to list profiles like WeddingWire. Search for planners servicing your area across different price points.
  • Analyze the services they offer, packages, and how they describe their business.
  • Visit their individual websites and social media pages to assess their web traffic, followers, and engagement using tools like SimilarWeb and SocialBlade .
  • High traffic and following can signal a strong online presence.
  • Search industry hashtags on social media like #birthdaypartyplanning to find local planners promoting their work and engaging with clients.
  • Their posts can provide insight into their branding, the types of events planned, and the venues/rentals they partner with. Take note of planners with satisfied client comments.
  • Look for gaps in the market – if all local competitors focus on luxury weddings, for example, there may be opportunities for budget kid parties.
  • Identify areas competitors are lacking in like styled Instagram content or robust online packages, that you could excel in.
  • Track competitors over time by subscribing to their email lists and re-evaluating their digital presence every few months.

Ongoing market research will provide the knowledge needed to position your services where competitors are missing the mark. It also helps refine your unique selling proposition and offerings over time as client demand evolves.

3. Costs to Start a Party Planning Business

When starting a party planning company, there are various one-time start-up costs to consider before opening for business.

Start-up Costs

  • Business Registration Fees – $50-$500 Registering your business as an LLC or other corporate structure will incur state filing fees and potentially local licensing fees.
  • Business Insurance – $500-$2,000/year General liability insurance protects your business from property damage or bodily injury claims. Professional liability shields against client lawsuits.
  • Office Supplies – $500-$2,000 A computer, printer, software, phone, folders, contracts, and other administrative supplies will be needed.
  • Website – $200-$5,000 A professional website showcasing services, galleries, and contact forms is essential for attracting clients.
  • Branding – $500-$2,000 Professional logo design, business cards, email design template, and other branding elements establish credibility.
  • Equipment – $1,000-$5,000 Tablets, cameras, decor items, props, signage, and storage for event supplies will be necessary. Renting certain items can minimize costs.
  • Initial Advertising – $500-$2,000 Print ads, digital ads, and brochures help introduce your new business to the local market.

Ongoing Costs

  • Rent – $200-$2,000/month Many planners operate from a small home office when starting before moving to a storefront. Virtual offices are also an option.
  • Utilities – $150-$500/month Expect costs for internet, phone, electricity, and other utilities based on your office needs.
  • Business Insurance – $500-$2,000/year Insurance policies must be renewed annually. Review and adjust coverage as your business grows.
  • Accounting Software – $10-$50/month Programs like QuickBooks help track income, expenses, invoices, and tax documents.
  • Advertising – $100-$500/month Continually promote your services through channels like social media ads, SEO, and email marketing.
  • Travel – $50-$500+ per event Site visits, client meetings, and going to events will incur gas, public transit, or rideshare costs.
  • Professional Development – $500-$2,000/year Invest in ongoing training on event trends, best practices, and skills development.

By estimating costs across these various categories, new party planners can develop an accurate budget and ensure sufficient capital to cover operating expenses as they build their business. Adjusting forecasts periodically lets you scale spending in step with revenue growth.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

When starting a party planning company, choosing the right legal structure is key. The four main options each have benefits and drawbacks to weigh:

Sole Proprietorship

This is the simplest structure with no formal registration needed beyond licenses. Party planners can get up and running quickly and inexpensively. However, the owner has unlimited personal liability for debts and lawsuits related to the business. Their assets could be seized, making this a risky choice.

Partnership

A general or limited partnership allows two or more co-owners to share resources and split profits. However, general partners also share unlimited personal liability. Limited partners’ liability is restricted to their investment, but they can’t participate in management. Overall, the shared liability is risky for service businesses like party planning.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Forming an LLC offers liability protection for all members while allowing pass-through taxation. This is the best choice for most party planners starting. It limits owners’ risk if sued and keeps things simple tax-wise. Startup costs are low, and single-member LLCs are easy to run.

Corporation

C-corps and S-corps offer the strongest liability protection but have complex regulations and double taxation. This bureaucratic structure can get costly with annual fees and paperwork. Unless seeking investors or going public, most small party planners don’t need to incorporate right away.

5. Register Your Business For Taxes

One key legal step for any new business is obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This unique number identifies your business for tax purposes.

Here’s how party planners can easily apply for an EIN:

  • Go to IRS.gov and search “apply for an EIN”. Click the link to reach the online application.
  • Review the instructions and have your information ready – name, address, SSN, and details about your LLC or corporation.
  • When ready, click “Begin Application” and follow the short questionnaire. Select the type of LLC you formed.
  • On the final page, review your business information. Then submit the form to instantly receive your EIN.

The entire process takes about 10 minutes and there is no fee. The IRS will mail you an EIN confirmation letter for your records in 4-5 weeks.

With your EIN, you can open business bank accounts, apply for licenses, and file taxes. It also enables you to hire employees down the road.

Additionally, party planners must register with their state to collect sales tax on services provided. Requirements vary by location but often include:

  • Obtaining a seller’s permit or sales tax ID through your state revenue department.
  • Charging sales tax to clients and filing regular returns to remit taxes collected.
  • Keeping detailed records of taxable sales and any tax-exempt transactions.

Visit your state revenue website for specifics on registering. Fees typically range from $10-$100 depending on the state.

Handling EIN and sales tax registration upfront ensures your party planning business operates legally and complies with all tax obligations from the start. Take the time to get set up properly so you can focus on serving clients.

6. Setup Your Accounting

As a party planner, meticulous financial records are crucial for tracking income and expenses, maximizing tax deductions, and operating legally. Investing in accounting software and an accountant from the start will save major headaches down the road.

Accounting Software

Programs like Quickbooks allow planners to easily categorize every business transaction, generate invoices, manage payroll, and streamline taxes. The software seamlessly syncs with bank and credit card accounts to automatically import and log payments. This eliminates manual entry and the risk of errors.

Hire an Accountant

While accounting software does much of the heavy lifting, partnering with an accountant adds professional oversight. A qualified accountant provides services like:

  • Setting up your bookkeeping, accounting systems, and Quickbooks.
  • Training you on proper record keeping and utilizing features of your accounting software.
  • Performing monthly reconciliations to identify any discrepancies.
  • Preparing and filing quarterly and annual tax returns.

Most planners retain an accountant at least for annual tax preparation and filing. Costs range from $200-$5,000 depending on the extent of services provided.

Open a Business Bank Account

Separating business and personal finances prevents the commingling of funds and avoids red flags with the IRS. Open a dedicated business checking account and credit card only used for company expenses.

Apply for a Business Credit Card

Business credit cards allow you to keep expenses separate while earning valuable reward points on purchases. Limits are based on your business credit profile, not your score. Have an Employer Identification Number (EIN) ready to apply and obtain a higher line of credit.

7. Obtain Licenses and Permits

Before hosting your first event, party planners must ensure they have obtained all required business licenses and permits. Find information for federal licenses through the U.S. Small Business Administration . The SBA also has a local search tool for state and city permits.

Requirements vary based on your city and state, but common licenses include:

  • Business License: Nearly all jurisdictions require a general business license to legally operate. Fees are typically $50-$100 annually.
  • Seller’s Permit: Obtaining a seller’s permit or sales tax ID enables you to collect sales tax on services provided.
  • Food Service Permit: If catering food yourself or hiring food trucks, a food service license is often required. Complete a training course, pay fees, and pass inspections to obtain this permit.
  • Liquor License: To serve alcohol at events, party planners need a liquor license approved by the state or county liquor authority.
  • Raffle/Gaming License: If hosting contests, raffles, or casino games like at a fundraiser event, you’ll likely need gaming and raffle permits. Follow all regulations around reporting and awarding prizes.
  • Zoning Permits: If running your business from a home office, commercial space, or event venue, confirm zoning permits allow for these activities. Make any zoning appeals before signing leases.

Preparing guest lists, floor plans and vendor orders is the fun part of event planning. Don’t let overlooking essential licenses put operations on hold or jeopardize your business. Consult local regulators to identify all required approvals.

8. Get Business Insurance

Obtaining adequate business insurance is crucial for protecting party planners against unforeseen risks that could otherwise sink the company. Being underinsured – or not insured at all – leaves you vulnerable in scenarios like:

  • A guest slips and falls at an event, sustaining serious injuries. Without liability coverage, you could be sued for substantial medical bills.
  • Severe weather damages or forces cancellation of a major event. The client still expects compensation for losses.
  • Expensive AV equipment rented for a corporate party is stolen. Replacement costs could be crippling without protection.

To shield your assets in cases like these, partner with an insurer to obtain key policies:

  • General Liability – Covers 3rd party bodily injury and property damage claims. Vital for party planners to interact with guests.
  • Professional Liability – Protects against damages if sued for negligent services like a poorly planned event.
  • Commercial Property – Reimburses stolen or damaged equipment and decor used for events.
  • Event Cancellation – Provides reimbursement for non-refundable expenses if a client’s event is canceled.
  • Umbrella Liability – Additional liability limits atop other policies. Useful for large-scale events.

To get insured, contact business insurance brokers. Be ready with info on your LLC and the type/scale of events you plan. Review multiple quotes to find the best rates and coverage for your needs.

9. Create an Office Space

Having a professional office space lends party planners credibility and provides a centralized hub for client meetings and event preparation. The optimal location depends on your budget and stage of business.

Home Office

When just starting, operating from a dedicated home office minimizes overhead. Convert a spare room into a functional workspace for administrative tasks. Meet clients at event venues or coffee shops until you outgrow home-based operations. Costs are limited to decor, supplies, and utilities.

Coworking Office

Coworking spaces like WeWork provide an affordable upgraded office environment as your business expands. Open layouts promote networking with fellow entrepreneurs. You’ll get access to business amenities like conference rooms, printers, kitchens, and tech support for around $200-$500 per month.

Retail Office

For established planners seeking a higher-end presence, consider a storefront retail unit. This allows passing foot traffic and walk-in clients. You can meet with vendors in a conference room and display photos of events. Rent averages $1,500-$4,000 per month.

Commercial Office

Leasing space in a Class A commercial office building lends prestige to corporate clients. Expect amenities like gyms, cafeterias, shared conference rooms, and high-end finishes. Budget at least $3,000 per month for rent plus additional build-out costs.

10. Source Your Equipment

From decor to AV equipment, party planners need access to a wide assortment of event supplies. Here are the top options to acquire the necessary materials whether buying new, used, renting, or leasing:

Brand new party rental inventory allows you complete creative control but comes at a premium. Purchase basics like tables, chairs, linens, flatware, and lighting from event retailers like PartyTime Rentals . Visit restaurant supply stores for high-volume glassware, dishes, and service ware.

Score major savings buying used furnishings and decor from resellers. Check used-party supply retailers and local classifieds on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace . Thrift stores like Goodwill can yield finds. Garage and estate sales are also prime venues to discover chic vintage items. Take time to hunt for hidden gems.

Renting is ideal for pricier items needed periodically like speakers, projectors, dance floors, and tents. Event rental companies allow you to expand your inventory as needed on a per-event basis. Rates are typically daily or weekly. Coordinate delivery and pickup.

Leasing select premium equipment from specialty companies enables access to high-end gear like bounce houses, photo booths, neon signs, and games. You pay a monthly fee for the length of a multi-year contract. Build leasing costs into your client fees.

11. Establish Your Brand Assets

Crafting a strong brand identity is crucial for party planners to stand out and be remembered. By investing in professional branding elements upfront, you can consistently convey your vision across every touchpoint.

Getting a Business Phone Number

A custom phone number lends legitimacy versus using a personal cell. Services like RingCentral provide toll-free and local numbers with call routing, voicemail, and SMS capabilities.

Creating a Logo and Brand Assets

A polished logo encapsulates your brand personality and specialty. For party planners, an energetic, playful mark is ideal. Use a logo maker like Looka to design options and then refine your vision with a graphic designer.

Complement your logo with branded social media assets, email signatures, proposals, invoices, and contract templates. Apply colors, fonts, and graphical elements consistently for recognition.

Creating Business Cards and Signage

Business cards are essential for in-person networking and events. Include your logo, stylized contact info, tagline, and any certifications that build credibility. Signage like banners and yard signs help promote your brand at venues. Order professional designs from printers like Vistaprint .

Purchasing a Domain Name

Secure a domain name that matches your brand for a cohesive online presence. Aim for your full business name or a memorable short phrase relevant to party planning. Use domain sites like Namecheap and explore extensions beyond .com.

Building a Website

Your website will be a prospect’s first impression of your brand. While DIY builders like Wix make launching easy, consider hiring a web designer on Fiverr for a polished, client-focused site. Include sections showcasing previous events, testimonials, and ways to contact you.

12. Join Associations and Groups

Joining relevant local organizations and online communities provides invaluable connections for party planners. Surrounding yourself with other professionals leads to collaborations, knowledge sharing, and a stronger local network.

Local Associations

Area party and event planning associations offer both networking and learning opportunities. Attend meetups to connect with fellow planners, discuss trends, and discover new venues. Groups like the International Live Events Association provide support through all stages of business ownership.

Consider joining your local chamber of commerce as well to raise visibility among area businesses. The connections made can lead to corporate event leads.

Local Meetups

Keep a pulse on local happenings and expand your network by attending relevant meetups. Use sites like Meetup to find regular events like wedding vendor mixers, marketing seminars, and industry trade shows.

Exchange ideas in person and distribute business cards to event pros you want to partner with. Look for both general networking and party planning-specific meetups.

Facebook Groups

Engage with the national community of planners by joining Facebook Groups like Party Rental Business Owners and Creative Event Planners who are supportive of newcomers. Having an online support system provides camaraderie and advice from peers globally.

13. How to Market a Party Planning Business

Implementing an ongoing marketing strategy is essential for party planners to continually attract new clients. While leveraging your network and stellar customer service form the foundation, mixing digital and traditional tactics will help amplify your reach and brand visibility.

how to start business party planning

Personal Networking

To start, tap into your existing contacts and ask for introductions to their networks. Offer incentives for current clients to refer friends, which is powerful word-of-mouth marketing. For example, provide a 10% discount on their next event for every new booking referred.

Digital Marketing

For digital marketing materials, consider:

  • Search ads through Google Ads targeting keywords like “party planner [your city]”. Track conversions to optimize effective ads.
  • Facebook and Instagram ads focused on your ideal demographic and location. Share beautiful event visuals and promotions.
  • Start a YouTube channel with tutorials and behind-the-scenes event videos to build expertise.
  • Write blog posts about party planning tips to improve SEO and provide value.
  • Email marketing campaigns to engage past clients and promote new services.

Traditional Marketing

For traditional approaches, some options include:

  • Creating mailers with promotions to send to prospective clients like engaged couples.
  • Distributing framed fliers and menus to complementary vendors like caterers.
  • Billboard ads in high-traffic areas introducing your new business.
  • Radio spots on local stations describing your services and special offers.
  • Hosting open house events at your office for the public to meet you.

While digital marketing enables incredible precision and measurement, don’t count out the power of traditional mediums for brands to make an entrance.

14. Focus on the Customer

Providing an incredible client experience is crucial for party planners to earn rave reviews, loyal repeat customers, and word-of-mouth referrals that fuel growth.

how to start business party planning

Here’s why going above and beyond with customer service pays off:

  • A wedding, anniversary party, or baby shower comes just once in a lifetime. By tailoring every detail to the client’s vision and making them feel valued, you create a meaningful experience they won’t forget.
  • Satisfied clients will happily refer family and friends planning their celebrations rather than risk them having a subpar experience with another planner.
  • Stellar service translates into genuine, detailed reviews. Your reputation hinges on reviews and testimonials.
  • When you consistently wow customers, they’ll rave about you online and on sites like The Knot and WeddingWire. This social proof captures the attention of prospective clients.
  • Return customers also become a sizable portion of your bookings if you nail their first event.
  • Clients planning annual galas or milestone birthdays will come back year after year if you make the process smooth and enjoyable.

For party planners, client satisfaction directly impacts income. By providing responsive communication, anticipating needs, and handling any curveballs with grace, you assure a 5-star experience that brings clients back while attracting new ones through word of mouth.

You Might Also Like

February 22, 2024

0  comments

How to Start a Sheep Farm in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Raising sheep can be a rewarding and profitable endeavor. The global sheep farming industry ...

How to Start a Deer Farm in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

The deer farming industry in the United States is a lucrative market. Projections show ...

How to Start a Sod Farm in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

The grass production industry is projected to reach $6,620 million by 2030. With increasing ...

How to Start a Bamboo Farm in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

The global bamboo market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate ...

Check Out Our Latest Articles

BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to start a party planning business

  • Jeremy Greenbaum

How to start a party planning business

If you have a passion for organizing events, love bringing people together and enjoy creating memorable experiences, starting a party planning business can be a rewarding and exciting venture. In this guide, we'll take you through the process of launching a party planning business, from developing your concept to creating a professional business website . It’s time to turn your party-planning dreams into a reality.

What is a party planning business?

A party planning business is a service-based enterprise that specializes in organizing and executing various types of events, such as birthdays, weddings, corporate gatherings and special occasions. In this type of business , you will work closely with clients to understand their vision, coordinate logistics and ensure that every detail of the event is meticulously planned and executed.

Party planning businesses have become increasingly popular as people seek professional assistance to alleviate the stress and complexity of organizing events. By providing expert guidance, creative ideas and impeccable coordination, party planners help clients bring their vision to life and create unforgettable experiences for their guests.

Why start a party planning business?

The demand for professional party planning services is on the rise as people value convenience, expertise and the desire for exceptional celebrations. In fact, the global party planning industry is projected to reach $1,552.9 billion by 2028 , giving it a compound annual growth rate of over 11%. In the US, that growth rate is up to 18% .

Besides having major growth potential, this field can also be extremely fun and creative. If you have a genuine love for organizing events and making people happy, starting a party planning business allows you to turn your passion into a fulfilling career. As a party planner, you have the opportunity to unleash your creativity and bring unique ideas to life. Each event presents a new canvas for you to design memorable experiences tailored to your clients' preferences.

Speaking of clients, planning parties allows you to connect with clients on a personal level and make a positive impact on their lives. The joy and satisfaction of seeing happy clients and their guests enjoying a flawlessly executed event can be immensely rewarding.

Benefits of starting a party planning business

In summary, starting a party planning business comes with benefits such as:

Diverse clientele: Party planning businesses cater to a wide range of clients, including individuals, businesses, nonprofit organizations and community groups. This diversity allows you to work on various types of events and expand your network.

Endless creativity: From themed parties to unique décor and entertainment ideas, party planning offers limitless opportunities for creativity. You can continuously explore new trends, innovative designs and exciting concepts to impress your clients and stay ahead of the competition.

Collaboration opportunities: As a party planner, you have the chance to collaborate with different vendors, such as caterers, florists (read also: how to start a flower business ), DJs and photographers. These collaborations not only enhance the quality of your events but also help you build a strong network within the event industry. And if you're interesting in taking that on yourself, check out our guide on how to start a dj business .

Personal and professional growth: Running a party planning business allows you to develop essential skills in project management, negotiation, budgeting and customer service. Each event presents an opportunity for growth and learning, enabling you to refine your expertise and expand your knowledge.

Challenges of running a party planning business

While starting a business has numerous benefits, it's important to be aware of the challenges that come with it. Here are some common challenges you may face:

Time management: Planning and executing events require meticulous attention to detail and effective time management. Juggling multiple projects, coordinating with clients and vendors and meeting deadlines can be demanding, especially during peak event seasons.

Budget constraints: Balancing clients' expectations and budget limitations can be a challenge. It's crucial to find creative solutions, negotiate with vendors and effectively communicate with clients to deliver exceptional experiences within their financial constraints.

Vendor management: Building relationships with reliable and trustworthy vendors is essential. However, finding the right vendors who align with your clients' needs and standards can be time-consuming. Maintaining these relationships and ensuring consistent quality from vendors is crucial for successful events.

Event logistics: Managing logistics, such as venue selection, transportation, guest seating and equipment rentals, requires careful coordination and attention to detail. Overlooking any aspect of event logistics can result in delays, misunderstandings or last-minute complications.

Starting a party planning business involves several essential steps. By following these steps, you can establish a strong foundation for your business and set yourself up for success:

Define your party planning services

Develop a comprehensive business plan

Set up your business

Build your professional network

Develop pricing packages and contracts

Establish online presence with a Wix website

Market your party planning business

01. Define your party planning services

Identify the types of events you want to specialize in and the services you will offer. Determine your target market based on factors such as event size, budget range, location and specific event themes or styles, as well as your unique selling proposition . Defining your niche will help you focus your marketing efforts and differentiate yourself from competitors.

02. Develop a comprehensive business plan

Create a detailed business plan that outlines your goals, target market analysis, marketing strategies, pricing structure, financial projections and operational plans. You’ll also want to create a detailed financial forecast, including how you plan to raise money for your business , monthly expenses, revenue projections and profitability analysis. These documents will serve as a roadmap for your party planning business and guide your decision-making process.

Once you've written your party planning business plan , write a concept statement to outline your vision.

03. Set up your business

When you are figuring out how to name your business , try using dedicated tools like Wix’s business name generator and register your business with the appropriate local authorities. Determine your business entity ( sole proprietorship , partnership , LLC , corporation ) and obtain any required licenses or permits to operate legally. Additionally, consider getting liability insurance to protect your business.

Some examples of potential party planning business names include:

CelebrateJoy Events

FestiveFiesta Planners

GlamourGatherings

SparkleSoiree Services

PartyPerfection Pros

JubileeJunction Events

BlissfulBash Planners

EliteEntertain Events

RazzleDazzle Celebrations

ChicCharm Events

VelvetVibe Parties

GalaGrove Planners

EnchantedOccasions

RadiantRevelry Events

MajesticMingle Planners

04. Build your professional network

Establish relationships with vendors, venues, caterers, entertainers and other professionals in the event industry. Collaborate with reliable partners who share your commitment to quality and professionalism. Building a strong network will ensure that you have access to reliable resources for every event.

05. Develop pricing packages and contracts

Create pricing packages for your party planning services based on the type of event, services provided and estimated hours of work. Develop clear and comprehensive contracts that outline the terms and conditions of your services, including payment schedules, cancellation policies and liability disclaimers.

06. Establish your online presence with a Wix website

Create a professional website using a user-friendly website maker like Wix. Showcase your services, portfolio of past events, client testimonials and contact information. Implement an inquiry form to capture leads and make it easy for potential clients to reach out to you.

07. Market your party planning business

Implement a strategic marketing plan to promote your party planning services. Consider online and offline marketing tactics, such as social media marketing, search engine optimization, email marketing, attending industry events and networking with local businesses. Utilize your website and social media platforms to showcase your expertise, share event inspiration and engage with your target audience.

Thinking of starting another type of business? Check out some of these creative service business ideas  to help get you started.

Promote your party planning business

Promoting your party planning business effectively is essential for sustainable growth and client satisfaction. Here are five key steps to effectively manage your party planning business:

Streamline processes and workflow: Develop efficient processes for client communication, vendor coordination, budget management and event execution. Use project management tools and software to track progress, assign tasks and streamline workflow. Regularly review and refine your processes to optimize efficiency and productivity.

Maintain strong vendor relationships: Nurture your relationships with vendors by communicating effectively, providing clear guidelines and promptly addressing any concerns or issues. Maintain an updated vendor database with detailed information, such as pricing, specialties and past collaborations. Establishing trust and reliability with vendors will ensure smooth event execution.

Prioritize customer service: Deliver exceptional customer service by actively listening to your clients, promptly responding to their inquiries and going above and beyond to exceed their expectations. Tailor your services to meet their unique needs and preferences. Providing a personalized and attentive experience will build trust and loyalty among your clients.

Leverage social media and visual content: Utilize social media platforms to showcase your past events, share event inspiration and engage with your target audience. Utilize visual content, such as high-quality photos and videos, to highlight your creativity and expertise. Encourage clients to share their experiences and reviews on social media, further enhancing your online presence.

Build client testimonials and referrals: Request testimonials from satisfied clients and feature them on your website and social media platforms. Positive reviews and testimonials build trust and credibility among potential clients. Implement referral programs that incentivize existing clients to refer new clients to your party planning business. Offer discounts, exclusive packages or rewards as a token of appreciation for referrals.

How to start a business in a specific state

Registration and licensing requirements can vary by state and local jurisdiction. Therefore, it's important to research and comply with the specific guidelines of your location so you’re operating legally and protecting your business. Here are some helpful resources:

Start a business in Pennsylvania

Start a business in Tennessee

Start a business in Connecticut

Start a business in Texas

Start a business in New York

How to start a business in Washington

Start a business in Georgia

Don’t see your state here? Just use the search bar in the Wix Blog to find all the information you need.

No matter where you promote your business, make sure to keep your branding consistent. Use Wix’s logo maker to create a logo that you can feature in all of your digital assets. Check out these photography logo ideas for inspiration.

Party planning businesses on Wix

Pop Tier Party Solutions : PopTier Parties is your go-to destination for creating unforgettable and personalized party experiences. From themed decorations to entertainment, they curate every detail to make your special occasions truly magical.

Social Peanut Planning : Social Peanut Planning specializes in crafting seamless and stylish parties for any child event, birthday or baby shower. Their expert team brings creativity and attention to detail to ensure your gatherings are a resounding success.

The Peachtree Party Planner : Located in the Greater Atlanta Region, The Peachtree Party Planner is a premier event planning service dedicated to extravagant and stylistic themed parties. Meet your new secret weapon when it comes to impressing your party guests.

For more inspiration, you can check out these service business examples to help you get your creative juices flowing.

What are some of the qualities of a good event planner?

Looking to be successful with an event planning business? You'll need to posses and hone some of the following skills:

Effective communication

Good organizational ability

Leadership qualities and experience

Problem solving

People skills

Great time management

If you're interested in other business ideas...

How to start an online business

How to start a consulting business

How to start a service business

How to start a fitness business

How to start a fitness clothing line

How to start a makeup line

How to start a candle business

How to start a clothing business

How to start an online boutique

How to start a t-shirt business

How to start a jewelry business

How to start a subscription box business

How to start a beauty business

How to start a print on demand business

How to start a laundromat business

How to start a wedding business

How to start a hotel business

How to start a marketing business

How to start a party planning business FAQ

How to start an event planning business from home.

As general advice - research the market, define your niche, create a business plan, set up a home office, build a website, network with vendors for party planning supplies and offer exceptional service to launch your home-based event planning business successfully.

How to start an event planning business with no experience?

How to start a party planning business with no money, related posts.

How to start a coaching business

How to start a plumbing business

How to start a flower business in 7 steps

Was this article helpful?

how to start business party planning

Small Business Trends

How to start a party planning business.

Starting an event planning business can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of how to start a party planning business, ensuring you’re equipped with the knowledge and insights to become a successful party planner. Whether it’s the allure of the industry’s profitability, the evolving dynamics of event planning, or the niche specifics like wedding planning, we’ve covered it all for you. 

Why Start a Party Planning Business?

how to start a party planning business

The journey to start a successful event planning business comes with its share of perks. Not only do you get the opportunity to showcase your creativity and organizational skills, but there’s a substantial market out there ready to be tapped.

In 2022, the US party and event planning service market bounced back valiantly, boasting a size of $3.2 billion. Following a few challenging years with an annualized dip of -9.1% from 2016 to 2021, the industry regained momentum with a growth of 4% by the start of 2022, making it again one of the top service business ideas for aspiring entrepreneurs. This resurgence signals a shift, with corporate events, holiday parties, and professional social occasions, like company picnics, emerging as the frontrunners for potential growth.

Diving into this business now can offer you a chance to ride this wave of recovery, as many sectors are actively looking to revitalize their event calendars. You get to play a part in creating memorable experiences and helping people reconnect in delightful settings.

The Event Planning Industry Today

how to start a party planning business

Getting a clear picture of the current industry landscape is vital before you roll up your sleeves and immerse yourself in the events industry. Recent shifts and developments have reshaped how the industry operates in recent years.

Small Business Deals

Technology, for one, has significantly influenced the industry. From virtual event platforms to sophisticated event management software, embracing technology can give your business a competitive edge. Moreover, consumer demands constantly evolve, with a notable inclination towards personalized and unique experiences. The contemporary clientele seeks more than just an event; they crave an experience that resonates with them personally.

Furthermore, significant global events have urged businesses to rethink their strategies. Flexibility and innovation have become the keystones for survival and growth. Keeping a pulse on these trends and adapting your business model can pave the way for a successful and sustainable event planning service.

What Does an Event Planning Company Do?

how to start a party planning business

If you’ve ever been to a seamless event and marveled at how everything just seemed to fall into place, you’ve probably experienced the work of a skilled event planner. But what do these wizards behind the curtains do? Let’s peel back those curtains and uncover the myriad of roles and responsibilities an event planning business typically handles.

From Vision to Reality

At its core, an event planning company is responsible for turning a vision into a tangible reality. This means they’ll tackle everything from the nitty-gritty details to the grander aspects of an event. The planner works closely with clients to understand their requirements and preferences, drawing up an actionable plan to ensure everything proceeds without a hitch.

The Intricacies of Planning and Coordination

While the word ‘party’ sounds like all fun and games, a lot of groundwork goes into it. This includes budgeting, selecting the venue, arranging for equipment, coordinating with various vendors, managing invites and RSVPs, and ensuring proper transportation and accommodations for guests if needed.

Execution – The Final Countdown

On the day of the event, an event planner morphs into a maestro, orchestrating every detail. They ensure everything is set up as planned, resolve any last-minute hiccups, manage the event schedule, and ensure guests have a pleasant experience.

Types of Events An Event Planner May Handle

how to start a party planning business

An event planner’s role is varied, but their skill set is transferable across various event types. Let’s delve into some of the most common events they handle:

Corporate Events

These are often large-scale events organized by businesses for their employees, stakeholders, or clients. It could be product launches, conferences, workshops, or team-building retreats. Each comes with its own set of requirements, from professional settings to interactive activities, and an event planner ensures the event aligns with the company’s goals and brand image.

Arguably one of the most significant events in a person’s life, weddings require meticulous planning. From venue selection to décor, catering, entertainment, and coordinating ceremonies, an event planner makes the special day truly memorable for the couple and their guests.

Birthday Parties

Birthday parties are joyous occasions, whether a child’s first birthday or a grandparent’s milestone celebration. Planners help with theme selection, activities, food, and ensuring the birthday person is the center of attention.

Holiday Celebrations

Holiday events have a unique charm, from planning a business holiday party to vibrant New Year’s Eve bashes. An event planner can craft experiences centered around the holiday’s theme, ensuring everyone soaks in the festive spirit. For example, a Christmas party may feature a Santa for hire , while New Year’s Eve bashes may include live music late into the evening.

Charity Galas and Fundraisers

These events are increasingly popular and require a balance of entertainment and a deeper purpose. Planners ensure the event entertains, effectively conveys the cause, and encourages donations or support.

Specific Tasks Handled by an Event Planning Company

The beauty of an event often lies in its details. Behind every successful event, there’s a plethora of tasks that an event planning company takes on to ensure everything is just right. While we’ve touched on what event planners do broadly, let’s take a closer look at some of the specific roles they manage on a day-to-day basis:

Booking Venues

Finding the perfect backdrop for an event is crucial. Event planners:

  • Scout potential venues based on client preferences and event requirements.
  • Negotiate prices to fit within budgets.
  • Handle contracts, including terms for cancellations or changes.
  • Ensure the venue complies with health and safety regulations.
  • Coordinate logistics like parking, accessibility, and event flow within the venue.

Arranging for Catering

Good food can elevate the event experience.

  • Work closely with clients to finalize the menu, taking into account dietary restrictions and preferences.
  • Source reliable catering services known for quality.
  • Handle tastings to finalize dishes.
  • Ensure timely food service during the event.

Managing Invitations and RSVPs

Proper communication sets the tone for an event. Planners:

  • Design and order invitations aligned with the event’s theme.
  • Manage mailing or e-invitations to the guest list.
  • Handle RSVPs, keeping track of attendees.
  • Make provisions for special requests or requirements from guests.

Coordinating Entertainment and Activities

Ensuring guests are engaged and entertained is vital. To achieve this, planners:

  • Source entertainers or hosts, be it a DJ, a band, or a keynote speaker.
  • Arrange for technical equipment like microphones, speakers, or projectors.
  • Plan activities, games, or workshops that align with the event’s objective.
  • Manage event schedules to ensure timely transitions between segments.

Handling Decorations and Themes

The visual appeal sets the mood. In this regard, event planners:

  • Collaborate with clients to decide on a theme or aesthetic.
  • Source decorations that resonate with the chosen theme.
  • Collaborate with decorators or florists to bring the vision to life.
  • Ensure timely setup and teardown, keeping the venue’s policies in mind.

Budgeting and Finance Management

A crucial behind-the-scenes task, planners:

  • Create a comprehensive budget outline based on client inputs.
  • Monitor expenses, ensuring they stay within allocated budgets.
  • Handle payments to vendors, venues, and service providers.
  • Provide financial summaries post-event for transparency.

Unraveling the magic of a memorable event means diving deep into these intricate tasks. When thoughtfully managed, each detail culminates in an experience that leaves an indelible mark on the attendees.

Key Steps to Start Your Own Event Planning Business

how to start a party planning business

Venturing into the event planning business? Beyond the glitz and glamour of the events themselves, there’s a structured approach to planning events and setting up a successful business in this space. Here are some foundational steps for how to start a business in this exciting industry :

Market Research Local Event Planning Services

Before you dive into the event planning business, you’ll want a lay of the land. Here’s how you go about it:

  • Identify your competitors: Look for other event planning companies in your area. Understand their strengths, offerings, and pricing structures.
  • Understand your target audience: Are you focusing on corporate events, weddings, or private parties? Understanding your niche will help in tailoring your services.
  • Gather feedback: Speak to friends, family, or potential clients to understand what they look for in an event planner. Their insights can help shape your business.
  • Analyze trends: Stay updated with the latest in event themes, technologies, and preferences. This ensures your services remain current and in demand.

Crafting Your Event Planning Business Plan

Every successful venture starts with a robust hires . Here’s what yours should include:

  • Mission Statement: Define what your business stands for and what you hope to achieve .
  • Services Offered: Detail out the range of services you’ll provide, from end-to-end planning to specific tasks like catering or décor.
  • Pricing Structure: Decide on your pricing. Will you charge a flat fee, a percentage of the event budget, or hourly rates?
  • Marketing and Promotion: Outline strategies to promote your business, be it through social media, word-of-mouth, or partnerships.

Registering Your Business and Legal Requirements

It’s not just about planning parties; you’ll need to ensure your business is above board:

  • Choose a Business Structure: Will you operate as a sole proprietor, partnership, LLC, or a corporation? Each has its tax and liability implications.
  • Register Your Business: Register your business with the appropriate governmental bodies depending on your locale.
  • Licenses and Permits: Research and obtain any necessary licenses or permits. Some locations may require special permits for public events or large gatherings.
  • Insurance: Consider getting business insurance. Given the nature of events, liability insurance can be a lifesaver in case of unforeseen issues.

Financing Your Party Planning Business

Even event planning service requires some initial capital:

  • Startup Costs: Calculate costs for setting up your office, marketing materials, a website, and any initial hires.
  • Secure Funding: Depending on your needs, you could self-fund, take a business loan, or look for investors.
  • Maintain a Budget: Especially in the early days, track your expenses and income meticulously. This not only helps in managing cash flow but also in future financial planning.

How to Become a Successful Party Planner

how to start a party planning business

So, you’ve set the stage with your event planning business. Now, how do you ensure that your venture not only survives but thrives? Let’s delve into some crucial event planning service tips and practices that can pave the way for your success.

Essential Tools and Software

In the digital age, leveraging technology can make all the difference:

  • Event Management Software: Invest in software that helps you manage every aspect of an event, from budgeting to scheduling and vendor management.
  • Design Tools: Platforms like Canva or Adobe Suite can be handy for creating promotional materials, designing invitations, or presenting event mock-ups to clients.
  • Communication Tools: Apps like Slack or WhatsApp Business can streamline communication with clients and vendors. Moreover, video conferencing tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams are invaluable for remote consultations.
  • Feedback and Survey Platforms: Use tools like SurveyMonkey or Google Forms to collect feedback post-event. It’s a goldmine for improvement!

Networking and Partnerships

Your network is your net worth, especially in the event planning service industry:

  • Attend Industry Events: These can be conferences, workshops, or seminars. It’s a fantastic way to meet potential clients, vendors, or even competitors.
  • Forge Strategic Partnerships: Partner with related businesses like catering companies, décor agencies, or venues. Mutual referrals can significantly boost clientele.
  • Join Associations: Consider memberships in event planning associations or groups. They often offer training, resources, and networking opportunities.

Marketing and Social Media

Visibility is key in the event planning industry:

  • Build a Stellar Website: Ensure it showcases your portfolio, client testimonials, and services. An integrated blog can also boost SEO and provide value to visitors.
  • Leverage Social Media: Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are visual-heavy and perfect for showcasing your events. Regular posts, stories, and reels can help engage a wider audience.
  • Engage in Content Marketing: Share articles, videos, or infographics related to event planning. It positions you as an expert in your field.

Building Client Satisfaction and Repeat Business

Happy clients are your business’s best promoters:

  • Over-communicate: Ensure your clients are always in the loop. Regular check-ins and updates can instill confidence.
  • Go the Extra Mile: Little gestures, like sending a thank-you note post-event or giving a small gift, can leave a lasting impression.
  • Seek Feedback: Post-event, actively ask for feedback. This shows clients you value their opinion and are keen on improving.
  • Loyalty Programs: Consider offering discounts or added services for repeat clients. It encourages them to come back and can also lead to referrals.

Required Skills and Qualifications for a Professional Event Planner

how to start a party planning business

The exhilarating event planning industry demands a unique mix of skills. Here’s what you need to have in your toolkit, both in terms of soft skills and formal qualifications, to shine in this industry:

Communication Skills

In event planning, communication is the bedrock of success:

  • Clarity and Precision: Clear communication prevents mishaps, whether it’s understanding client requirements or conveying those to vendors.
  • Listening Skills: Paying attention to the needs and feedback of clients, vendors, and team members ensures that everyone is on the same page.
  • Negotiation Abilities: Event planners often juggle budgets, and negotiating with suppliers or venues can ensure top-notch services without breaking the bank.

Time Management

Every event is bound by time, making this skill crucial:

  • Prioritization: With multiple tasks vying for attention, understanding what to tackle first is essential.
  • Scheduling: Using tools or software to lay out tasks, set reminders, and ensure nothing is overlooked can be a lifesaver.
  • Flexibility: Things don’t always go as planned. The ability to swiftly adjust and reorganize is a trait every event planner needs.

Creative Thinking

Events are as much about experience as they are about logistics:

  • Innovative Solutions: Whether it’s a last-minute venue change or a sudden rainstorm, coming up with quick, creative fixes is key.
  • Design Sensibility: An eye for aesthetics helps in creating memorable event atmospheres.
  • Trend Awareness: Keeping tabs on the latest in event themes, technologies, or entertainment can give your events a fresh appeal.

Formal Qualifications

While not always mandatory, some qualifications can give you an edge:

  • Certifications: Many institutions offer event planning certifications. These can be valuable in showcasing your expertise and commitment to the profession.
  • Related Fields of Study: Degrees in hospitality, public relations, marketing, or business can provide foundational knowledge beneficial in event planning.

How to Set Up Your Event Planning Business Operations

how to start a party planning business

Getting your operations up and running smoothly is fundamental. Here’s how to structure this crucial aspect of your event planning service business:

Choosing a Location

  • Home Office: Many event planners start out from home offices. It’s cost-effective and offers flexibility.
  • Co-working Spaces: As your business grows, co-working spaces can provide a professional setting without the hefty price tag of a private office.
  • Rental Offices: For larger operations with a team, renting an office space might be the way to go. Ensure it’s easily accessible for clients and staff.

Hiring Staff

  • Freelancers vs. Full-time: Initially, you might rely on freelancers for tasks like design or marketing. As the workload grows, consider hiring full-time staff.
  • Roles to Consider: Assistants for handling administrative tasks, marketing professionals for promotion, and coordinators for managing events are some of the first hires many planners consider.
  • Training: The event industry is dynamic. Regular training sessions can keep your team updated on the latest trends and best practices.
  • Building a Cohesive Team: Team building activities and regular feedback sessions can foster a collaborative and efficient work environment.

Marketing and Branding Your Party Planning Business

how to start a party planning business

In the event planning service industry, how you present and market your business can set you apart. Here’s a roadmap to making your brand the talk of the town:

Digital Marketing for Your Event Planning Service

Digital platforms offer a vast audience waiting to discover your brand:

  • Website Optimization: A user-friendly, visually appealing website that’s mobile-responsive and SEO-friendly can draw potential clients.
  • Social Media Engagement: Platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook are perfect for showcasing event visuals. Regular posts, behind-the-scenes stories, and client testimonials can enhance engagement.
  • Pay-per-click (PPC) Advertising: Platforms like Google Ads allow you to target specific keywords related to event planning, driving targeted traffic to your website.
  • Email Marketing: Periodic newsletters with event tips, discounts, or industry news can help you stay in the minds of past and potential clients.

Networking at Local Events

Personal connections are invaluable for a party planner:

  • Exhibitions and Trade Shows: Setting up a stall or even attending can get you direct contacts.
  • Community Events: Participating or volunteering in local community events can offer organic promotion.
  • Business Chambers and Clubs: Joining local business networks can help you forge ties with potential clients and collaborators.

Customer Testimonials

Word of mouth is golden:

  • Website Features: Display glowing reviews prominently on your website.
  • Social Proof: Share testimonials on social media, perhaps as short video clips or graphic cards.
  • Incentivize Reviews: Encourage feedback by offering discounts on future bookings or small giveaways for detailed reviews.

How to Grow Your Event Planning Business

how to start a party planning business

With a solid foundation, scaling your event planning services is the next frontier. Here are some steps to consider:

Expanding Services

  • Diversify Offerings: From intimate house parties to large corporate events, widening your spectrum can tap into new client bases.
  • Skill Development: Offering unique services like thematic decor, sustainable events, or technology-driven setups can set you apart.
  • Training and Workshops: Hosting workshops on event planning or allied topics can offer an additional revenue stream.

Partnerships and Collaborations

  • Vendors and Suppliers: Forge deals with decor agencies, caterers, or entertainment groups for mutual referrals.
  • Collaborate with Non-competitors: Consider tie-ups with businesses like florists, bakers, or photographers. Their clientele can be a direct lead into your target audience.

Customer Retention Strategies

Repeat business is a surefire growth strategy:

  • Loyalty Programs: Offer discounts or complimentary services for repeat bookings.
  • Post-event Feedback: Regularly seek and act upon feedback. It not only aids improvement but also shows clients that you value their opinions.
  • Anniversary Reminders: Send out reminders for annual events, be it birthdays or corporate anniversaries. It’s a gentle nudge for repeat business.

Specializing as a Wedding Planner

how to start a party planning business

Often hailed as the most significant events in many individuals’ lives, weddings demand a unique blend of skills and sensibilities. Picking wedding planning as a specialization within the broader event planning spectrum can be both challenging and highly rewarding. Let’s explore this niche:

  • The Magic and Magnitude: Weddings aren’t just events but deeply personal and emotional. A wedding planner isn’t just organizing a day; they’re crafting memories that last a lifetime.
  • Attention to Detail: The details matter immensely in weddings, from matching the napkins to the bride’s dress shade to ensuring the music aligns with the couple’s love story.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Weddings are deeply rooted in traditions. A wedding planner should be well-versed and respectful of diverse cultural customs, rituals, and etiquette.
  • Stress Management: With high emotions can come high stress. Being the calming presence, mediating disagreements, and ensuring smooth execution is part of the job.

Tips for Focusing on the Wedding Niche:

  • Educate Yourself: There are specific courses and certifications for wedding planning. Investing in these can give you an edge.
  • Portfolio Building: A stunning portfolio with photos, testimonials, and detailed breakdowns of weddings you’ve managed can be your strongest marketing tool.
  • Forge Relationships: Build solid relationships with suppliers catering to weddings—florists, caterers, photographers, and venue managers.
  • Stay Updated: Wedding trends evolve rapidly. From sustainable weddings to tech-driven ceremonies, be aware of what’s new in the wedding world.

FAQs: How to Start a Party Planning Business

How profitable is a party planning business.

The profitability of a party of event planning business varies based on location, specialization, market demand, and business acumen. In the US, the party and event planning market has seen growth, especially after overcoming the challenges in previous years. With dedication, networking, and effective marketing, many party planners have built lucrative careers.

Do you need a certification to start a party planning business?

No, you don’t necessarily need a certification to start an event planning business. However, having a certification can provide credibility, showcase your commitment to the profession, and equip you with essential industry knowledge. It can also be beneficial when seeking certain clientele or corporate contracts.

What is the best way to market event planning services?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but digital marketing, especially through visually-rich platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, has proven effective for many event planners. Showcasing your work, using customer testimonials, attending local networking events, and leveraging word of mouth are also valuable marketing strategies. Regularly engaging with your audience, updating your portfolio, and highlighting unique offerings can set you apart in the market.

Image: Envato Elements Comment ▼

How to Start a Cleaning Business

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

© Copyright 2003 - 2024, Small Business Trends LLC. All rights reserved. "Small Business Trends" is a registered trademark.

Event Planning Mavericks Logo Design

How To Start a Party Planning Business

Starting a party planning business can be a very profitable venture. However, there are a few things you need to do in order to get started. In this article, we will outline the process of starting an event planning business and provide some tips to help you succeed.

Here are the 10 steps you can take to get started on building your very own party planning business.

10 Steps to Launching a New Party Planning Business

1. choose your type of party planning business.

The first step in launching a party planning business is to identify the type of party planning business you want to launch. You might choose from the following types among others:

  • Birthday parties
  • Holiday parties
  • Wedding receptions
  • Anniversary celebrations

Learn more about the types of party planning businesses .

2. Name Your Party Planning Business

Give your party planning business an identity so people will think of it as a well-known and respected brand. You can take the name of your party planning business from your industry, focus on a geographical location, or use your own name among other options.

The main goal for naming your party planning business is to make it sound appealing and trustworthy so that potential clients will be more likely to use your services.

3. Determine Your Party Planning Business Model

There are several possible types of business models for a party planning business including:

Offering party planning services as an independent business owner

Working as a party planner for an established event planning company

Starting your own party planning business using a franchise model

No matter which model you choose, make sure that it aligns with your business goals and the services you offer.

4. Choose a Legal Form for Your Business

By incorporating your party planning business, you will limit your liability. You can incorporate as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a C Corporation (C-Corp), or an S Corporation (S-Corp). Or you can operate as a sole proprietorship.

The business structure you choose for your party planning business will determine the amount of taxes you pay and which state or federal tax forms you need to file.

Read our article comparing the most common party planning business structures .

5. Write a Party Planning Business Plan

All party planning business owners should develop a business plan. 

A business plan is a document that outlines the goals, strategies, and operations of a business. It can be used to secure funding from investors or lenders, as well as to guide the day-to-day operations of the business. The business plan should include information on the company’s products or services, market analysis, financial projections, and management team among other things.

When developing your party planning business plan and strategy, you should think about the following questions your customers might have:

  • What services does your party planning business offer?
  • Do you have any pictures or examples of events you have planned?
  • What is your pricing structure?
  • How do I know that I can trust you to plan my event?
  • What are your qualifications?
  • How far in advance do I need to book your services?
  • What is the cancellation policy?

Answering these questions will give you a good foundation on which to build your party planning business plan.

Read our article about how to write a party planning business plan .

6. Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses

There may be required licenses and permits you need to obtain before launching your party planning business.

For example, if you’re serving alcohol at any of the events you plan, you’ll need to obtain a liquor license from your state’s Alcohol Beverage Control Board. You might also need to obtain a business license from your city or county government.

You must also register your party planning business as a legal entity with the state where you plan to do business. You can simply file an online form through your Secretary of State website.

Registering with the federal government is also essential so you can properly pay taxes for your business. You will also need an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which you can apply for at the IRS website, if you plan to hire employees.

Read our article about obtaining the proper party planning business licenses .

7. Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed

In developing your party planning business plan, you will figure out how much funding you need to start and grow your business.

If you have your own funds to invest in your party planning business, you may consider taking advantage of that. In addition to your personal funds, other forms of potential funding for your party planning business include traditional bank loans, SBA loans, credit cards, angel investors and family and friends.

Read our article about the costs associated with starting a party planning business to help you determine if funding is needed. 

Read our article about how to fund your party planning business . 

8. Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently

When you start your party planning business, it’s essential to have the right technology in place to maximize efficiency. You definitely need a computer with Internet access, and accounting software for tracking expenses and revenues. 

You may also want to invest in customer relationship management (CRM) system to help keep track of your clients, as well as a project management software to help plan and execute events.

9. Market Your Party Planning Business to Potential Clients

Before you start selling your services , you have to let the world know you exist. The first step is to create a website so people can learn more about your services and how they benefit them.

After you launch your website, start promoting it through social media channels like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Also consider networking with other people in the party planning industry through social media and blogs so they can help share your business. 

You also need to start gathering the materials needed to execute on your promotions strategy, which is your strategy for attracting new customers. Party planning businesses should consider the following promotional strategies for which you should start getting prepared:

  • Develop a strong social media presence.
  • Collaborate with local businesses to cross-promote services.
  • Create informative blog content and share it on social media.
  • Give free party planning consultations to potential clients.
  • Attend local business events and promote your services there.
  • Make a list of the media outlets in your area and send them press releases.
  • Distribute flyers and postcards in local businesses and neighborhoods.
  • Sponsor a local event or charity to get your name out there.
  • Give away party planning tips on your website or blog.
  • Offer discounts to first-time clients.

Read our article about how to market your party planning business for more tips.

10. Get New Clients & Grow Your Business

When you promote your services , you’ll start to get interest from potential clients . 

Make sure you’re ready to serve these clients . Also, be sure to establish systems to ensure consistency and reduce costs. And be sure to find and train the right people to help you grow your party planning business.

Read our article about how to effectively grow your party planning business to learn more.

Starting a Party Planning Business FAQs

Why start a party planning business.

A party planning business can be profitable, while it provides you with the flexibility to work from home or an office. Party planners typically work with clients to plan and execute their events, which can range from birthday parties and weddings to corporate functions and holiday parties.

What is Needed to Start a Successful Party Planning Business?

To start a successful party planning business, you need to have strong organizational and communication skills. You also need to be creative and have the ability to think on your feet. In addition, it’s helpful to have some experience working in the event planning industry.

How Can I Start a Party Planning Business From Home?

You can start a party planning business from home by setting up a dedicated workspace and creating a professional website. You should also invest in the right technology and software to help run your business efficiently. In addition, you need to market your services to potential clients and get new clients to grow your business.

How Can I Start a Party Planning Business Online?

You can start a party planning business online by creating a professional website and promoting your services through social media and other online channels. You also need to invest in the right technology and software to help run your business efficiently. In addition, you need to market your services to potential clients and get new clients to grow your business.

What are Some Tips for Starting a Party Planning Business?

Here are some tips for starting a party planning business:

  • Define your target market.
  • Create a professional website.
  • Invest in the right technology and software.
  • Distribute flyers and postcards to local businesses and neighborhoods.

Where Can I Find a Simple Checklist for Starting a Party Planning Business?

A simple checklist to use when starting a party planning business is as follows:

  • Choose Your Type of Party Planning Firm : This should be based on what you are best at and how much experience you have. Remember to keep your interests, skills, and experience in mind at all times.
  • Name Your Party Planning Business : This should be done with care, as your brand is important for attracting the right customers. A simple, memorable name will go a long way.
  • Choose a Legal Form for Your Business : Whether you choose to become a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation or another option will depend on your business. Ensure that you are aware of all the implications of each type.
  • Determine Your Party Planning Business Model : Determine how your business will make money. Will you sell products, services, or a combination of both?
  • Write a Party Planning Business Plan : Your business plan will also help you determine what your start-up costs will be and will provide a roadmap with which you can launch and grow .
  • Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses : In most locations you will be required to apply for a business license and/or permits before you can begin operations.
  • Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed : You will need to know how much money you have to spend on all of your business-related expenses before opening any doors. If needed, apply for a small business loan or other funding options.
  • Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently : You need to have the right tools in place to succeed. Implement software that will help you manage your time, contacts, and business operations in general.
  • Market Your Party Planning Business to Potential Clients : A solid marketing plan will be crucial to your success. It should focus on attracting the right customers so that you can provide them with the services they truly need. 
  • Get Clients & Grow Your Business : Once you have a solid marketing plan, it's time to actively pursue and secure those who could benefit the most from your services . 

Starting a party planning business can be a great way to turn your passion for parties into a successful business. By following the tips we’ve outlined, you’ll be well on your way to launching and growing your own party planning business. Remember to invest in the necessary technology and software, create a professional website, and market your services aggressively.  

Growthink logo white

How to Start a Party Planning Business

start a party planning business

Starting a party planning business can be very profitable. With proper planning, execution and hard work, you can enjoy great success. Below you will learn the keys to launching a successful party planning business.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a party planning business is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here

14 Steps To Start a Party Planning Business :

  • Choose the Name for Your Party Planning Business
  • Develop Your Party Planning Business Plan
  • Choose the Legal Structure for Your Party Planning Business
  • Secure Startup Funding for Your Party Planning Business (If Needed)
  • Secure a Location for Your Business
  • Register Your Party Planning Business with the IRS
  • Open a Business Bank Account
  • Get a Business Credit Card
  • Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
  • Get Business Insurance for Your Party Planning Business
  • Buy or Lease the Right Party Planning Business Equipment
  • Develop Your Party Planning Business Marketing Materials
  • Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Party Planning Business
  • Open for Business

1. Choose the Name for Your Party Planning Business

The first step to starting a party planning business is to choose your business’ name.  

This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your own business:

  • Make sure the name is available . Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
  • Keep it simple . The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
  • Think about marketing . Come up with a name that reflects the desired brand and/or focus of your party planning business.

2. Develop Your Party Planning Business Plan

One of the most important steps in starting a party planning business is to develop your business plan. The process of creating your plan ensures that you fully understand your market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to funding sources to raise capital for your business.

Your business plan should include the following sections:

  • Executive Summary – this section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your party planning business.
  • Company Overview – this section tells the reader about the history of your party planning business and what type of event planning business you operate. For example, are you an event planner, catering company, or an event venue?
  • Industry Analysis – here you will document key information about the party planning industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
  • Customer Analysis – in this section, you will document who your ideal or target market are and their demographics. For example, how old are they? Where do they live? What do they find important when purchasing services like the ones you will offer?
  • Competitive Analysis – here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
  • Marketing Plan – your marketing plan should address the 4Ps: Product, Price, Promotions and Place.
  • Product : Determine and document what products/services you will offer 
  • Prices : Document the prices of your products/services
  • Place : Where will your business be located and how will that location help you increase sales?
  • Promotions : What promotional methods will you use to attract prospective clients to your party planning business? For example, you might decide to use pay-per-click advertising, public relations, search engine optimization and/or social media marketing.
  • Operations Plan – here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your day-to-day operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
  • Management Team – this section details the background of your company’s management team.
  • Financial Plan – finally, the financial plan answers questions including the following:
  • What startup costs will you incur?
  • How will your party planning business make money?
  • What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
  • Do you need to raise funding to launch your business?

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

3. choose the legal structure for your party planning business.

Next you need to choose a legal business structure for your own event planning business and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.

Below are the five most common legal structures:

1) Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business entity in which the owner of the event business and the business are the same legal person. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.

2) Partnerships

A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among small businesses. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a party planning business together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business. 

The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.

3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for a party planning business include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.

4) C Corporation

A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a party planning business is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.

5) S Corporation

An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.

Once you register your party planning business, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.

Incorporate Your Business at the Guaranteed Lowest Price

We are proud to have partnered with Business Rocket to help you incorporate your business at the lowest price, guaranteed.

Not only does BusinessRocket have a 4.9 out of 5 rating on TrustPilot (with over 1,000 reviews) because of their amazing quality…but they also guarantee the most affordable incorporation packages and the fastest processing time in the industry.

4. Secure Startup Funding for Your Party Planning Business (If Needed)

In developing your party planning business plan, you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business. 

If so, the main sources of funding for a party planning business to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in a party planning business that they believe has high potential for growth.

5. Secure a Location for Your Business

When starting an event planning company, the first thing you need to do is find a location. You’ll want to find a space that’s big enough to accommodate your business operations and client meetings. It’s also important to find a location that’s affordable and accessible. You may want to start by looking for an office space or commercial property for rent in your desired area. 

6. Register Your Party Planning Business with the IRS

Next, you need to register your business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.

Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.

7. Open a Business Bank Account

It is important to establish a bank account in your party planning business’ name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:

  • Identify and contact the bank you want to use
  • Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
  • Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
  • Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them

8. Get a Business Credit Card

You should get a business credit card for your party planning business to help you separate personal and business expenses.

You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.

When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your business. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.

9. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits

The licenses and permits you will need to start an event management company will vary depending on your location. You may need a business license, a food license, a vendor’s license, and a special event permit. You should contact your local licensing agency or municipality to find out what specific licenses and permits you will need.

10. Get Business Insurance for Your Party Planning Business

There are a few types of insurance that you will need to operate a party planning business.

Some business insurance policies you should consider include:

  • General liability insurance : This covers accidents and injuries that occur on your property. It also covers damages caused by your employees or products.
  • Auto insurance : If a vehicle is used in your business, this type of insurance will cover if a vehicle is damaged or stolen.
  • Workers’ compensation insurance : If you have employees, this type of policy works with your general liability policy to protect against workplace injuries and accidents. It also covers medical expenses and lost wages.
  • Commercial property insurance : This covers damage to your property caused by fire, theft, or vandalism.
  • Business interruption insurance : This covers lost income and expenses if your business is forced to close due to a covered event.
  • Professional liability insurance : This protects your business against claims of professional negligence.

Find an insurance agent, tell them about your business and its needs, and they will recommend policies that fit those needs. 

11. Buy or Lease the Right Party Planning Business Equipment

To start a party planning business, you will need some essential equipment. You’ll need some basic office supplies, including a computer, pens, paper, and folders. You may also need office furniture such as a desk or table, chairs, a printer, a fax machine, and a phone to communicate with potential clients. Additionally, you may need a vehicle to transport supplies and equipment to your events.

12. Develop Your Party Planning Business Marketing Materials

Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your party planning business.

The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:

  • Logo : Spend some time developing a good logo for your party planning business. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.
  • Website : Likewise, a professional party planning business website provides potential customers with information about the services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your website will affect how customers perceive you.
  • Social Media Accounts : establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media platforms will help customers and others find and interact with your party planning business.

13. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Party Planning Business

In order to start a party planning business, you will need accounting software, event management software, and a website. You may also want to invest in software that can help you create invitations, manage guest lists, and keep track of payments.

There are a number of different software options available, so you should be able to find one that meets your needs.

14. Open for Business

You are now ready to open your party planning business. If you followed the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.

How to Finish Your Ultimate Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your party planning business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

How to Start a Party Planning Business FAQs

Is it hard to start a party planning business.

No, it is not hard to start a party planning business. The most important thing to do is make sure you have a clear business plan and a good marketing strategy. You also need to be organized and have a lot of energy, because party planning can be hard work.

How can I start a party planning business with no experience?

There are a few things you can do to get started in party planning without any experience. First, you can read online resources about party planning to get a basic understanding of the process. You can also join online communities or forums related to party planning to learn from others who have more experience. Finally, you can attend workshops or classes to gain more knowledge and event planning skills.

What type of party planning business is most profitable?

The most profitable type of party planning business is one that specializes in large events, such as weddings and corporate functions. These events require a lot of planning and coordination, and businesses that are good at this can charge high prices for their services.

How much does it cost to start a party planning business?

To start an event planning business, it will cost you between $2,000 and $10,000. This includes the cost of setting up a business entity, obtaining licenses and permits, and purchasing necessary equipment.

What are the ongoing expenses for a party planning business?

The ongoing expenses for a party planner can vary depending on the size and scope of the business. However, some of the most common expenses include marketing and advertising, employee salaries, materials, rent and utilities.

How does a party planning business make money?

A successful event planning business can make money by charging a fee for their services, by selling party supplies, or by receiving donations from the party guests. Many event planner s can also make money by holding workshops and classes to teach people how to plan their own parties.

Is owning a party planning business profitable?

Yes, a party planning business is profitable because it offers a unique service that is in high demand. Party planners can also charge relatively high rates for their event planning services, since clients typically value the convenience of these services and the expertise of the party planner. 

Why do party planning businesses fail?

There are a number of reasons why party planning businesses fail. One reason is the business might not have a solid business plan in place. Another reason might be that the business owner does not have the necessary skills to run successful parties and events . Finally, the business might fail because it is unable to compete with other business owners in the industry.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Business Plan Template & Guide For Small Businesses

thimble logo

Get Going → Events & Entertainment

How to start an event planning business

February 17, 2022

reserved place setting at an event

Step 1: Understand the job requirements

Step 2: find your niche, step 3: write a business plan, step 4: market your business, step 5: get insurance, get the party started, subscribe to greenlight by thimble..

Join a community of 50,000+ small business owners and get insights and inspo every other week

Whether you’re coordinating and facilitating a wedding, a conference, a trade show, or a corporate fundraiser, event planning is a high-pressure, high-stakes job.

It takes a whole lot of creativity, energy, organization, and people skills to thrive in the event planning industry—but if you have those qualities, being an event planner can be a career to celebrate. Knowing how to start an event planning business is your first order of business.

You may have already coordinated events on a smaller or ad-hoc scale. That experience will help you as you move forward in this industry. But launching an official party planning business requires jumping through legal and logistical hoops.

Think you have what it takes to become a professional party planner? (We think you do.) Here’s how to start an event planning business in 5 steps.

If you’re brand-new to the official event-planning industry, it’s easy to think that the job is all glitz, champagne, and celebrations. While that’s the result of your careful planning, things are a lot less glamorous behind the curtain. For any event, there are about a thousand boxes you (the professional planner) have to check off to ensure that everything runs smoothly for the client and attendees.

Those tasks may include, but aren’t limited to:

  • Creating an event design or theme
  • Arranging entertainment
  • Finding the venue
  • Booking vendors
  • Sending RSVPs and marketing information to attendees
  • Balancing a budget
  • Coordinating with staff and subcontractors
  • Decorating the space
  • Handling the catering and bar staff
  • Supervising the event

There are about a thousand more boxes to check off within each one of these tasks. The Type A personality type is well-suited to this line of work. You need to be:

  • Detail-oriented
  • Extremely organized
  • An ace problem solver
  • Have excellent communication skills.

Beyond that, you need to be a savvy negotiator, understand how to manage a budget, and know how to market your services. Especially if you’re a wedding planner, you must have high emotional intelligence to put nervous brides, grooms, wedding parties, and other starring attendees at ease in the midst of high-pressure situations.

If you’re not yet sure that your heart is fully in starting an event planning business on your own, it’s a good idea to give the job a test run. First, consider working as a personal or production assistant for an event planning company or experienced party planner. That way, you can see if the job is a good fit before you strike out on your own and find your corner of the business.

Once you’re clear on what the job entails, nail down your niche. Although you may be tempted to advertise yourself to prospective clients as a jack-or jill-of-all-trades, that’s actually not the best marketing strategy. A general title makes it much harder to distinguish yourself in a crowded market. Offering one type of service that you do really well demonstrates your expertise.

There are four primary types of events: social, corporate, nonprofit, and association—each with its own specializations. For example, managing a fundraising gala and coordinating a wedding are both social events, but they’re uniquely different jobs with distinctive requirements, challenges, and demands.

Once you’ve decided on your event specialization, consider your services. If you’re a wedding planner, for instance, will you offer full-service planning leading up to the wedding, or will you also offer day-of coordinating? Will you offer pre-wedding services such as showers, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and honeymoon planning, as well?

Perhaps you’ll eventually be able to offer a full range of event planning services. But when you’re just starting, narrow it down so you can perfect your flagship service. (Hint: that’s all part of your business plan.)

Writing a business plan is the next step to start a party planning business. Your business plan is a detailed guide outlining your business structure, what it offers, how it operates, its long- and short-term goals, and some crucial financial information.

Your business plan will not only help your business grow and reach important milestones, it can also attract funding. 1

Every business plan is different. Some are highly detailed for presenting to investors, and others act more as “road maps” that help the business owner organize a plan of action. At the very least, your preliminary business plan should address the following:

  • What services your business offers
  • How your business sets itself apart from competitors
  • Your target market
  • Your mission statement
  • How you plan to evolve your business over the next few years
  • Your business structure
  • Your business budget
  • How much money you have on hand, and how much you need to launch
  • Your funding sources

Luckily, there are tons of business plan tools and templates available. Start by checking out the SBA’s guide to writing a business plan, which includes sample business plans. 2

You also need to make your business official. Start by coming up with a business name and choosing a business entity. Next,register your business with your Secretary of State, Business Bureau, or Business Agency, and gather any funding you need to get your business off the ground.

After you register your business, you have to invite customers to your party.

As an event planner, you’re probably naturally gifted at networking, so now’s the time to use those skills. Word of mouth is one of the most effective marketing skills in this industry. Scour your network for potential leads and send out a mass email to your contacts announcing your business. Ask happy customers to spread the word to their friends, family, colleagues, and social media followers.

With the vast majority of consumers conducting their browsing, socializing, shopping, and pretty much everything else online, having a website for your small business is non-negotiable.

Fortunately, there are website platforms that allow you to bundle a domain name and hosting services and create a website in just minutes. For this step, remember to take the following actions:

  • Build your blog to improve search results
  • Utilize SEO best practices throughout the site
  • Design a site that’s visually appealing, clearly states what you do, and is tailored to your target audience
  • Make the site easy and intuitive to navigate
  • Be sure to include your contact information, links to your social media accounts, and a portfolio of your work

If you haven’t already done so, now’s the time to create social media accounts dedicated to your business. Instagram and Twitter are mainstays. But as your line of work is aesthetically driven, a Pinterest account can also be a great way to showcase your work and inspiration.

Big groups of people gathering together is inherently risky. A liability claim filed against your business could ground your event planning business before it even launches.

General liability insurance can cover you for liabilities like non-employee third-party bodily injury, third-party property damage, personal and advertising injury. It provides the investigation of a claim and even the defense of such claim if a client takes your business to court.

Thimble’s Event Insurance is the easiest and most flexible way to protect your business. You can choose a policy that covers you by the hour, day, month, or year, so you’ll only pay when you’re actually working an event.

Along with general liability coverage, Event Insurance offers the option to add liquor liability coverage , which provides coverage for legal fees and damages incurred because damage or injury caused by a third party as a result of alcohol consumption at your BYOB or open-bar event.

To get your quote, just download the Thimble mobile app or click “Get a Quote,” enter a few details about your business. When you purchase, you’ll receive your policy and as many certificate of liability insurance as you need via the Thimble app and email.

Now, you can run your business with the peace of mind you absolutely need to track down that missing vegetarian meal for the groom’s sister at Table One.

Before you bust out the bubbly, let’s quickly recap the five crucial steps to becoming a professional party planner:

  • Understand the job’s extensive requirements. Ideally, work as an assistant to a party planner, or organize small-scale parties to gain hands-on experience.
  • Pinpoint what types of events you’ll plan, and any other additional services you’ll offer clients.
  • Write a business plan and follow through with foundational requirements, like registering your business and gathering funding.
  • Network, create a website and social media accounts, and do whatever it takes to land your first client.
  • Protect your business by purchasing general liability insurance.

As you go about launching your company, remember that success takes time. Stick to your business plan, work on building a clientele, create connections in the industry, and take calculated risks. Do that, and your parties will soon be the talk of the town.

  • U.S. Small Business Administration. 5 Reasons You Need a Business Plan.
  • SBA. Write Your Business Plan.

Written on February 17, 2022

Our editorial content is intended for informational purposes only and is not written by a licensed insurance agent. Terms and conditions for rate and coverage may vary by class of business and state.

Related Articles

Get greenlight in your inbox..

It's not every other newsletter. It's every other week, four minutes long, and just for small businesses.

thimble spin logo

Quick-thinking insurance for fast-moving businesses.

Backed by A-rated Insurance i

Best Insurance for the Smallest Businesses

Accredited Business

What do you do?

How To Start a Party Planning Business

Photo of Kevin Martin

The party planning or event planning industry can be a world of enjoyment for those who like to organize events and make them the best they can be. If that sounds like you, you may want to consider starting your own event planning business. Event planners can make great money with a successful business. Of course, there’s a lot you’ll need to know, but if you can accomplish all the steps to starting your business, you’re already on the right path!

So, do you want to know how to start a party planning business? If yes, we’ve gathered all the information you’ll need to become an event planner. Let’s dive in!

party planning

Phase I: Plan Your Party Planning Business

What is the purpose of starting your event planning company?

What is the purpose of this business? Do you want to make it a side hustle to make some extra money now and then? Will this be your full-time job in the future? Do you have a dream to own a successful event planning business empire? Are you planning specific events like weddings or corporate gatherings, or small parties and get-togethers?

Examine your goals and align them with the purpose of this effort. It’s not hard, but it’s not easy either. Party planning can be stressful but can be very lucrative and flexible if structured correctly. Once you hone in on your goal, it’s time to start diving into the details to ensure this becomes a success.

Planning the steps of organizing party

Do Your Market Research on the Party Planning Industry

Before you start an event planning company, there are questions you need to ask yourself.

Have you ever planned a party before? Do you know how to organize catering services? What about invitations? Do you know how to decorate a theme party? If not, go online and learn what you need. There are YouTube videos, articles, or even friends out there with an event management company that you can learn a thing or two from.

As a business owner, it’s always best, to begin with, the little things. For example, you can start a party planning business with just the basics like online invitations, catering from a restaurant like Chipotle, and getting decorations from a party store. Learn the basics and grow from there.

Party Planning Expenses and Pricing Models

This is the part of the planning phase that everyone hates but is, BY FAR, the most important to nail. To keep your party planning business on track, you’ll need to figure out things like upfront costs, ongoing business expenses, and more.

things you need in a party

Up Front Costs

What amount of money do you need to get started? For party planning, it is mostly nothing! Isn’t that awesome!? It’s all marketing, which is an ongoing expense. The only upfront cost would be creating an LLC (Limited Liability Corporation) with legal documentation. Other than that, you have a party planning business! 

Ongoing Business Expenses

A large majority of party planning expenses will be ongoing marketing costs. Normally if you’re planning a party, you never front money. That means the money you use to pay for supplies comes from the customer’s pocket. With this knowledge, you don’t and can’t do anything until you get a customer.

With marketing being the ongoing expense here, you need to make a marketing budget and a plan! If you need help organizing your finances, you can always use a personal finance tool . We’ll talk about marketing a bit later, but you can easily get away with a marketing budget of a couple of hundred dollars to start.

Cost of Each Job

The cost of each job is primarily time and transportation for yourself. The customer pays for all other party expenses, so you never take a loss. However, it would help if you value your time financially. For instance, if your current job pays you $15 an hour, this will most likely mean you’ll want to make around that much for an hour of your time planning parties.

For example, if you spend 10 hours planning a party and make $50, you’d be making only $5 an hour! That’s not worth your time compared to your other job. Figuring this number out for yourself will help you realize what it costs you in lost wages to put time into planning a party.

Pricing and Margins

Once you know what it will cost you to plan a party (nothing but time), you need to figure out what to charge! This largely depends on the size of the party, including the number of guests, decorations, catering, etc. The bigger the size and cost, the more time it takes to plan the party, right?

I would base your initial pricing model around your experience with planning parties, the type of parties you’ll be planning, and your opportunity cost (the amount of money you could have made at your other job). It’s common to start at around $15-$20 an hour for event planning services. Start there and adjust as needed. 

When creating a pricing structure, you want to make sure it’s fair to the customer, and two, it creates margins that you’re happy with. Seasoned event planners know undercharging won’t make you any money. Similarly, overcharging won’t bring many customers. The combination of these will help drive your pricing model.

A margin is simply the difference between what you charge and what it costs you to plan a party. So if we take the previous example of ongoing expenses being $15 per hour alternatively at your other job and you charge the customer $300, your margin is $300 – $120 = $180 profit if you worked 8 hours! 

Tip – Remember, pricing is never forever. You can always change pricing as you see fit.
Tip – Take the profit margin and divide it by the number of hours you worked. If you spend the 8 hours planning a party as described above, you’re making the equivalent to $22.50 an hour. Not too shabby for a side business with a close to zero up-front cost!

Phase II: Execution and Starting Your Party Planning Business

paperworks on party organizing

Legal and Incorporating as an LLC

Go to www.Legalzoom.com and start an LLC. It costs around $100. Just bite the bullet and do it. Trust me. 

Marketing and Finding New/Repeat Customers

Finding customers to plan a party for isn’t as easy as walking door-to-door. Not everyone is throwing a party, and not everyone trusts someone to plan a party either. You need clout, experience, and legitimacy. Below are some ways to begin marketing to find some clients.

One of the best ways to find clients is by networking. This entails going to other events or speaking with friends and family face to face. How many times do you meet people, and they ask what you do? A lot, I bet! As a party planner, I bet you’re an extroverted social butterfly!

Communicate that you’re an event/party planner and plan all sorts of events from small to large! Say you’d love to plan one of their events one day! Hand out a business card. Get their phone numbers. If you make an impression, they’ll remember to call you one day!

Tip – Get some cheap business cards with your company name and information on it. They’re easy to pass out and make you look legitimate even if you’re just starting out.

Website and Internet Searches

Before anyone hires you to plan their party (unless it’s a close friend or relative), you’ll need a website. No one will hire a company to plan their party without a website with information. It, once again, makes you look legitimate in the eyes of the customer.

So go on Squarespace, create a simple website using their templates, and make it live. One of the best ways for customers to find you is via internet searches, and they can’t find you if you’re not online, right?

Tip – Try and specialize your company or website to be around your local neighborhoods. If you’re in Chicago, for instance, your company’s name could be “Lincoln Park Parties” or “Wicker Park Party Planners.” This way, when someone searches for planners in their neighborhood, they’ll be guided directly to your site. It’s a niche but it’s also a great way to find local customers.

Mailing List

You can look online for mailing lists via companies like Mailchimp. You can create brochures or marketing materials and send them to random people by location, age, or other demographics for your target market. They will get the information through their virtual or real mailboxes. It’s a great way to get the name out and doesn’t necessarily have to be very expensive.

Tip – A mailing list can also be in the form of social media! You can create a Facebook page or maybe write messages to your friends telling them about your business. Others can share your status using their social media accounts or follow your page. This is just as good as a mailing list except people actually know who you are and want to help spread the word!

Start Planning!

At this point, you have a business plan, have figured out pricing models & margins, marketing, and registered your company as an LLC. Now, find some customers, plan parties or events, and make some money!

Phase III: Reflect, Improve, and Expand Your Party Planning Business

Below are some things to note.

Reflection and Improvement

After the first party has passed and your work is all done, make sure to take 15 minutes and think about:

  • What went right?
  • What went wrong?
  • Did everything go according to plan?
  • Was the customer happy with the result?
  • Did you have fun?
  • Did you make the money you thought?

It’s important to reflect on the day and ensure it’s everything you thought it would be and how you feel about the future. Do you want to do it again? Was it worth it? You worked hard! Make sure it was worth the time and effort to do it again.

Expand Your Party Planning Business

You did it! You created your side hustle and are profitable. You enjoy running your own business and want to make it bigger! What are the options? How do you do it?

To expand, you must first find more customers or expand your services. Can you increase your marketing efforts? Can you find a way to start planning larger events with a larger profit margin? Maybe you find a catering company you love to work with and create a partnership lowering your costs and decreasing your effort. 

Expanding a business is tough work. First, you must reflect on what you’re currently doing and ways to make it more efficient or bigger. Start by increasing marketing. Once you’ve hit capacity for yourself, you can then start to hire some help.

Tip – Make sure you don’t grow too fast! Growing organically ensures the quality of the events doesn’t drop. Keep planning great parties and word of mouth will bring you new customers automatically.

Final Thoughts: How To Start a Party Planning Business

Starting an event planning business can be a lot of work but is relatively easy to get going with minimal costs. If anything, it’ll help you realize what it takes to start a business, and you can parlay that knowledge into something else down the line.

Want to know more about starting a business? If so, you may also enjoy our article on the six best books on starting a business . Until then, party away!

Photo of Kevin Martin

Kevin Martin

Related articles.

how to start a candle business

How To Start a Candle Business

how to start a lawn care business

How To Start A Lawn Care Business That Succeeds

the six best books on starting a business

The Six Best Books On Starting A Business

how to start a restaurant business

How To Start A Restaurant Business

how to start a painting business

How To Start A Painting Business

how to start a life coaching business

How To Start A Life Coaching Business

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How to start a party and event planning business

how to start business party planning

Our experts

Written and reviewed by:.

As the nation emerged from the COVID pandemic, desperate to reconnect in person, party and events planning became a multi-billion-pound industry with plenty of demand across the UK.

Now, amid a cost of living crisis, there are a few emerging issues that new business owners need to stay aware of. Rising inflation means corporate clients are working to stricter budgets, while consumers won't be as easily convinced to part with their hard-earned money. That means the most successful event planning firms will be the ones that can offer a truly incredible and unique experience that stands out from rivals.

Luckily, with a clear concept, effective marketing and a few key transferable skills, you’ll maximise your chances of beating out the competition and finding success. That's where our experts come in.

We have been helping businesses to set up across tons of sectors, and we understand the challenges and opportunities that are ahead in the events industry. So put the champagne on ice for now, and read on to learn more about the costs, considerations and benefits involved in becoming an event or party planner.

At Startups.co.uk, we're here to help small UK businesses to get started, grow and succeed. We have helpful resources for helping new businesses get off the ground – you can use the tool below to get started today.

What Does Your Business Need Help With?

This article will cover:

Case study: above & beyond solutions, define your event planning business idea, conduct market research, come up with an event company name, develop your business plan, come up with a pricing strategy, understand the requirements, start promoting your event planning start-up, find suppliers and build contacts.

What does the future of the industry look like?

In order to combat the banning of in-person meetings, the events industry had partly pivoted towards online. The new fashion for virtual events has forever changed the way organisations will host and engage with their audience.

That's not to say virtual events are here to stay. Given the option, most attendees will want to go to a physical event – as most of us have been ‘Zoomed' out by pandemic working.

But digital events are a growing new branch in the sector which you should keep an eye on to ensure you stay ahead of the market and your competition.

Flexible working is also accelerating the trend. Corporate events will need to consider their employees that are still isolating and working from home. This means your business will need to provide online, offline, and  hybrid events solutions.

What COVID-19 rules do event planning firms need to follow?

From August 2021, all COVID-19 safety rules and regulations were fully lifted, which means that you don't legally need to require any specific safety measures from customers or staff members if you're planning to host events.

However, cultural changes have still taken place, including a new understanding about the spread of germs that public places can influence.

There are still some basic safety requirements that help to make your event attendees feel safe, such as:

  • Spaced out seating for social distancing
  • Hand sanitiser stations
  • Increased cleaning and disinfecting rota
  • Optional mask wearing

You could consider keeping these rules in place to help returning customers feel more at ease.

Sam Stockmans, founder of the newly found events services company Above & Beyond Solutions, has always had a passion for the industry.

“Everyones first nightclub experience is daunting, and I could feel that amongst my friends when we started going out. I wanted to put on parties and make it a more comfortable experience for everyone, so I started by organising 16+ nightclub events.

“I love the events planning industry, that ability to create moments for others through an event you are organising, there is no feeling like it.”

After dabbling in the nightclub events scene, Stockmans went on to organising exhibitions across Europe, before he decided to go it alone with his own venture, Above & Beyond Solutions.

In terms of the biggest challenges he's faced in his near 15 year career in the industry, Stockmans said:

“The biggest challenge is definitely standing out. There are so many competitors in the events industry space. You need to have a USP and you need to be able to sell it confidently.

“For us at Above, our USP is the level of service people receive. My team is made up of highly experienced professionals and creatives.”

And when asked about anything he wish he'd known before he started in the industry, Stockmans said:

“I wish I'd been less arrogant. I made mistakes in my younger years in the industry because I got ahead of myself.

Attitude is everything in this industry, and it will do any entrepreneur wonders to remember that, as the last thing you want is to burn bridges with other companies in the space that you will be frequently collaborating with.”

When it comes to starting an events company, you’ll first need to decide on the type of events services you want to offer.

Would you like to offer the full event planning service, organising every aspect of an event from inception to execution? Or would you rather focus on one or two particular skill sets? For example:

  • Event decorating
  • Corporate entertainment management
  • Event promotion
  • Catering (find out more in our guide about starting your own catering business )

It’s also key that you decide on the type of events you want to work on. In your early days, you’ll find it easier to market yourself clearly, attract customers and build the right skills and experience if you have a niche.

Events can be classified into four broad categories based on their purposes and objectives:

  • Personal events , such as weddings, birthday parties and family celebrations
  • Organisational events , such as commercial, political and charitable events, conferences and product launches
  • Leisure events , such as sports events and concerts
  • Cultural events , such as ceremonial, religious, art or heritage events

It’s advisable to pick a niche that you’re familiar with and already have a little experience in. If you come from a corporate background, for example, you may have a clearer understanding of what a successful conference looks like than a successful art festival. Remember, you can always take on more specialties as your business grows in size.

Tristan Johnson, founder of TYPE , which provides networking events “that enhance wellbeing and that millenials can afford”, believes drawing on your own experience of the events market as a consumer is a good idea, she says:

“As a young millennial entering the competitive job market fresh out of university, making valuable connections to progress my career was really difficult. Either I’d attend networking events that weren’t relevant for me or find myself spending far too much money. After chatting with a few friends who felt the same, our business model was created.”

NB: If you’d like to become a wedding planner, be sure to also check out our guide to starting a wedding planning business .

Bear in mind that, once you’ve come up with a concept, you should always test it to make sure it has a good chance of succeeding in the market. To do this, you’ll need to…

It’s really important that you understand both your target audience and your competition before you decide how to reach out to potential customers, settle on a pricing structure or – in short – do anything else.

Market research will help you to understand:

  • Who your competitors are
  • How you can differentiate yourself from them
  • How much demand there is for your particular event planning service
  • The type of people who are most likely to want/need your service
  • How much your target customers will be prepared to pay for your events, and whether you can make a healthy profit from this

To answer these questions, try:

Researching the competition online

Often a simple Google search will show you who the events businesses in your local area are, but the ONS, the FSB and the British Chambers of Commerce also hold more specific, publicly accessible information about different businesses.

Try to find out how your competitors operate, how big they are, who their customers are, how much they charge, and what their USPs are. Think about how you can bring something different to the table in order to compete.

Running an online survey

Online surveys are fairly cheap to set up, and you can also take to Facebook and LinkedIn to run questionnaires.

Ask people what they would expect from your events planning service, the budget they would have to spend on an event such as yours, how often they’d use you, what would make them want to use you, and anything else you want to know.

Holding focus groups

Essentially a face-to-face version of an online survey, a focus group gives you the opportunity to discuss your business with potential customers.

As well as asking the above questions, you can also talk more specifically about your own business, asking what they think of your concept and branding, and share ideas.

As fun a task as choosing a name for your party planning business may seem, it’s not something to be taken lightly.

Your name is the first thing most customers will hear about you, and so it’s important that it accurately represents what they can expect from your services. Plus, it needs to be something you’re proud to shout from the rooftops.

To come up with a name, try these tips:

  • Think of the type of events you want to plan and the style of service you’ll aim to deliver. Write down every word that springs to mind – no matter how obvious or abstract. The more, the better. Then single out your favourite words and explore them. Do they have synonyms that are better? How does it sound when you combine them in different ways?
  • Consider your own name. Can you name the business after yourself?
  • If you’d like your business to be one that doesn’t take itself too seriously, try thinking up event-related puns or phrases you might be able to use as a name. Just try not to be too cheesy!
  • Think about existing events planning businesses whose names you really like. Take inspiration from what makes them so great – but make sure you don’t simply copy them.

When it comes to coming up with a name, simplicity is key.

On the concept of coming up with a name, Stockmans says:

“Keep it simple, catchy, and memorable. Keep the name strong and simple, the strapline mission statement simple and the branding clear.”

If the name you choose doesn’t make it obvious that you’re an events planner – if you’ve picked a rather abstract word, for example, or are using your name – we’d advise adding a tagline. For example: Joe Bloggs – Party Planning.

Remember, your event planning business’ name should be:

  • Easy to spell and pronounce.
  • Original, and as unique as possible.
  • A good representation of the services you’re offering (don’t go for something jokey and fun if you’ll be planning serious corporate events, for instance).
  • Appealing to your audience. Ask target customers (whether through friends and family, an online survey or a focus group) for their honest opinion of your name.

Once you’ve settled on a name, you’ll need to check that it’s available – you can do this using the Companies House Register – and also check that it’s free to be used as a domain name for your website: for example, www.joebloggs.co.uk. It’s best to register your domain name as soon as possible.

If your chosen name is available, you’ll need to officially register it as your company’s name .

Your business' name will tie inextricably into your business’ branding as a whole. Its tone will be the starting point for how you design your logo, website, marketing materials and messages, social media posts and more – all together, this should convey the tone and purpose of your business.

Bourlet suggests that you create clear guidelines for targeting your specific target audience with your branding.

Getting professional help

Consulting a graphic designer may help when it comes to creating a logo and other visual assets. Finding yourself a graphic designer is a good creative opinion allows you to brainstorm with an expert third-party.

TYPE founder Johnston says:

“Once you have completed an in-depth persona analysis, ensure all of your work is aiming towards these individuals to gain the greatest results. Building out strong brand guidelines is critical, involving how you deliver your content, the tone of voice, the colour code used on the site and in all branding, and the persona you will be targeting with your marketing.

“Studies have shown our attention span is shortening so branding must be easily consumable, easy on the eye and fitting to your personal brand, be it premium, fun, colourful or sleek.”

A business plan is an important document that takes its reader through every aspect of a business – including how it will run, plans for how it will progress, and forecasts of what it will achieve in the future.

As well as something potential investors and banks will want to see, writing a business plan will give you the opportunity to break down and plan every aspect of your business step-by step – including details of your business model and pricing structure, a marketing strategy, plans for hiring staff in the future and those oft-daunting financial predictions.

Another great way to organise your business plan is to use a project management software. These sophisticated tools are aimed at delegation and multi-project management, and can help you stay on top of deadlines as you design your dream events business.

Check out our  free online comparison tool  to learn more about the providers available and their top deals and discounts.

A crucial part of your business model, to plan your pricing you’ll first need to decide whether you want to charge:

  • A flat fee for the whole service
  • An hourly rate for the time you spend working on the event
  • Commission-based prices

You should use what you’ve learnt from members of your target audience and your competitors to decide on which of these you’ll choose, along with the actual prices you’ll charge.

Remember, while your prices should be attractive to your target customer, they must also cover the operating expenses you spend on planning the event, while still leaving room for a healthy profit for you.

Work out how much it’ll cost you to put on an event based on your plans and ideal suppliers, and see whether you’d still get a decent margin based on what customers want to pay.

That being said, making sure you're giving your clients value for money is crucial.

Don't be afraid to adjust your offering if your pricing seems unreasonable. It may be that you need to re-evaluate how much you’re able to spend on pulling together the event or how many services you can offer as part of your package.

Qualifications

You certainly don’t need a formal education in events and party organising before becoming a party planner.

However, if you would like to study events management, you can:

  • Research your local colleges and universities, or online facilities like the Open University, to see whether they offer something that suits you.
  • Look into specialist event institutions. Event Academy , for example, offers four accredited event management courses which you can choose to undertake online or on a physical premises in London.

Or, as an alternative to studying, you can always build up your events experience (if you don't have any) by volunteering to help out at local events. This will give you a practical insight into the many cogs that form a single event, and you might be surprised at the level of graft involved!

Regulations

Follow this checklist to make sure you’re operating your business legitimately and without fear of costly legal problems:

✓ Obtain licenses

The licenses you need to operate your business legally will be down to your local authority or council (get in touch with them to find out which licenses you need) and also the venues at which you'll be holding events.

✓ Register as a sole trader

Unless you want to set up a limited company (though most start-ups don’t begin life this way), you’ll need to register as a sole trader with HMRC, and understand the tax implications of this.

✓ Set up a business banking account

This, plus you’ll need to get an accounting and cashflow system in order so you can easily manage invoices and outgoings. It’s a good idea to hire an accountant to help you out in the early stages.

✓ Prepare to take payments

Alongside your business bank account you’ll also need a merchant account. After a client pays you, their money will be held in your merchant account until it is approved by the client’s bank, at which point it moves into your business account – so it’s crucial you have one.

✓ Get yourself insured

You’ll need public liability insurance and professional indemnity insurance , plus employers’ liability insurance if you’re going to hire employees.

You might also need buildings and contents insurance if you keep expensive equipment at home or in an office, and vehicle insurance for any vans you use to transport materials to and from venues.

✓ Brush up on your health and safety

While the venues you hold events in will likely have their own set of generic health and safety regulations, it’s vital that you carry out your own risk assessments in advance of your events, detailing the hazards and controls for each.

So, learn how to write risk assessments and consider everything from trips, heavy loads and electric shocks to structural security and food hygiene.

Of course, it’s easy to blame the venue if something goes wrong – but it’ll still reflect very poorly on you if you’ve failed to recognise and manage a risk.

Now you’re ready to get going, it’s time to show your business to the public (and encourage them to use your stellar event-planning services). Alongside traditional techniques such as leaflet drops and putting advertisements in your local paper, you’ll want to try the following…

Set up a website

Having a website is vital for any small business. It’s a place to explain everything you offer, show off your previous projects, list your pricing packages and display your contact details.

It’s also an opportunity to prove that, even though your business is new, you’re a professional who knows exactly what they’re doing. So you’ll need to make sure your site is sleek and professionally-designed, with no spelling mistakes (an erroneous, dated website is a surefire way to turn off potential clients).

Unless you’re a web designer yourself, you’ll want to go with one of the two options:

  • Hire a freelance web designer to build your site for you. The benefit of this is that you’ll have an expert to discuss ideas with, but you may find that your designer charges for any changes you’d like them to make in the future.
  • Use a website building platform . These are often low-cost, and will likely give you more control over your site and a clearer understanding of how it works. Wix , GoDaddy and Weebly are popular options.

Your website should be in-keeping with your branding and appealing to your target customer, and you should adopt SEO best practice to make sure it ranks well when people search Google for a local events business.

If you need a hand setting up a website, be sure to check out our review of the top 5 web design companies in London .

Tom Bourlet of brands Fizzbox.com , which offers group activities and experiences for any event, and stag and hen party organisers The Stag Company and Hen Heaven, says:

“It is important to understand what terms you are targeting, the competition you are up against and what you can afford to spend on PPC (pay-per-click).

“When starting a new business, you can’t rely on organic or direct traffic, therefore PPC will be pivotal, and there will be a turning point where it goes from experimentation to profitable. For this reason, you need to ensure you have the funding to put into the ads, while working on the SEO and UX of the website.”

Websites are a great way to attract and retain customers, as they allow you to build a larger audience base from across the UK.

Read our guide to the  top 7 website builders for small businesses , to learn more about the benefits and methods to making your own online page.

Use social media

Social media is massive and if you’re not on board with the digital world then you will fall flat on your face. Get a good digital marketing plan in place with social media leading the charge.

With social media, you can get the word out about your business for free, sharing details of your services, special offers and – with your clients’ permission – images of your events to give potential customers an idea of what you can deliver.

In particular, Pinterest can be a goldmine for party and events planners. The image-based platform centering on inspiration and idea-sharing, Pinterest is the place to find people looking for ‘inspo' for their next big bash – and show them what you can do.

You might also find Facebook's groups valuable. Brides-to-be, for example, are increasingly joining locally-focused Facebook groups in which they can discuss and recommend local caterers, boutiques, planning services and more. Try joining up to relevant groups and sharing a tailored special offer with members.

Of course, there's no point in spending energy and resources maximising your Pinterest and Facebook profiles if your target market don't spend a lot of time on them.

Instagram is integral to many businesses success, be sure to check out our extensive how to use Instagram for business guide for everything you need to know.

Send emails

Sending engaging marketing emails to both customers and those who have expressed an interest in your services is an excellent way to communicate with the public, sharing updates and special offers, encouraging engagement with your business and keeping interest high.

A CRM (customer relationship management) system will help to streamline this process by personalising emails to make customers more inclined to read them, automating email sends, collating customer data and more.

Attend fairs and exhibitions

Some events, such as weddings, often have regular fairs and trade shows where small businesses like suppliers and party planners can host a stall and show off their products and services to visitors.

This is a great way to get your service in front of the people who need it. Furthermore, chatting face-to-face with potential customers will give you a unique opportunity to explain what you can offer to them specifically. Plus, they’re more likely to remember you if they’ve had a friendly and promising conversation with you.

Make sure, though, that you have professional business cards and leaflets printed so you can give them something to remember you by.

Try cross promotions

Seek out other small businesses in the events industry and see whether you can partner with them to create a promotional offer that you’ll both benefit from.

For example, a local independent caterers and offer a discount from both yours and the caterer’s prices to those who use your services and select that caterer.

As the old adage goes, it’s not what you know but who you know that counts. When it comes to events planning, what you know is obviously crucial – but you’ll also find having a portfolio of industry contacts very useful.

Of course, finding the right suppliers for each event will mean carefully considering your client’s wishes and budget. But building relationships with reliable suppliers will give you options right off the bat, saving you time – provided they fit the requirements.

If you’d like to plan weddings, for example, having contacts at catering companies, local venues, entertainment providers, et cetera will prove handy. If you’re specialising in corporate events, you may need to find contacts at banner printing companies, potential sponsors and more.

Here are a few ways to start building up that contacts book:

  • Visit online event supplier databases . Alive Network , for example, lists thousands of UK event entertainers and suppliers along with reviews and prices.
  • If your competitors run public events, see if you can attend them. Make a note of who they’ve used as a caterer, venue, equipment supplier etc. If any suppliers or sponsors are present, get talking to them and ask for their details.
  • Attend trade shows, seminars and exhibitions where suppliers will be showcasing their offerings. 
  • Join local events groups on social media , where professionals share details of the companies they’ve worked with. Be proactive, joining in with discussions and asking for opinions.
  • Use your personal network . Use LinkedIn to the full as well, make new connections daily and interact with them if only to simply introduce yourself.

As you build your network and liaise with suppliers and customers, you may want to consider getting a business mobile to separate your business dealings from personal calls (more information on our page on business mobile phone contracts .

What's next?

The party and events planning market is hugely competitive, but with the tips, tricks and tools in this guide, you’ll set yourself up with the best chance of success.

Want to get started on building your business now? The first step to opening any business is sourcing finance. O ur  free online comparison tool  can help you to compare the best business loan providers across the UK, and get refreshingly honest quotes for early-stage finance.

Written by:

Related articles.

a man writing on paper

Social Tables

1. Build a solid business plan

I can’t tell you how many small event planning businesses fail because the founder didn’t put together a business plan in advance.

Start by researching successful plans and businesses that are similar to your scope of work. Then reach out to others in the events industry who may be able to guide you! 

Reach out to others in the events industry that may be able to guide you. Click To Tweet

Even if you’ve never seen a business plan, there are plenty of resources and templates online that can get you started. Additionally, when you look to grow your business, an up-to-date business plan is vital to secure any kind of investment.

Start with the right event tools for your business

Get Started Free

2. Set a marketing budget and use a PR company when possible.

When starting your party planning business, your marketing budget may be 30% or more of your business expenses. Does that seem like a lot? Think about all the things you’ll need:

  • A website for your business
  • Business cards
  • Flyers and other printed info
  • Digital marketing and online ads
  • Expenses to travel to events for networking

Don’t leave anything out! You will need to spend money to make money, ultimately. The goal in the early months is to secure your base of customers as quickly as possible. If you deliver on the promise of creating memorable events, your clients will stick around and recommend you. As a result, your marketing costs will start to drop.

hotel crm strategies for growth

Here’s How to Start an Event Planning Business Click To Tweet

3. Clearly define your scope of work, mission and goals for your event business.

Your event planning business may evolve over time, but even when you’re just starting out, it’s important to clearly outline what you are and aren’t willing to do. You can even put this on your website to attract the right type of clients.

When you’re still building your business, saying “no” to clients  is one of the hardest things to do. But it might save you from dealing with the kinds of customers that take up too much time and don’t offer enough value in return.

Guide: How to Create an Event Planning Checklist

4. Have your elevator speech ready.

After I set up my first events business, I had a hard time selling it to people because my 30-second pitch wasn’t refined. Make sure to spend time developing this ” it is the key to introducing everyone to your business.

Pro tip:  Don’t stress about the name of your event planning business. At the end of the day, the name of your business doesn’t matter ” as long as you produce truly memorable events. However, a catchy event business name idea might stick in someone’s brain better during an elevator pitch.

5. Do your market research

Before jumping, in I always tell people to understand their market and competitors. What is your unique value proposition? Are your fees similar to, better than or higher than others in your area? Understanding your competition and your clients will give you the leg up in this market. Don’t skip this step!

how to start business party planning

6. Spend some time learning tax laws and business filing in your area.

No matter what kind of business you want to start, there are lots of legal pieces to understand. I spent time researching which type of business would be best for me (LLC made the most sense for my consulting business).

It’s also critical to understand the tax implications before you dive in. For example, when I moved my business from Virginia to California, I had to go through the process of dissolving the business. I should have taken more time to research other possibilities!

There’s a lot to navigate, but some great resources exist for building small businesses. Here are a few I recommend:

  • IRS.GOV “ Starting a Business
  • SBA.GOV “ 10 Steps to Starting a Business
  • Legalzoom.com

One of my favorite resources in Women In Events . New event planners can take advantage of our mentoring/coaching program after signing up.

Now You’re Ready to Start a Great Event Planning Business!

Have questions? We’ve got answers. Connect with @socialtables on Twitter.

Up next, here’s how to pick an event company name for your business . Or check out Social Tables free event planning tools to manage seating, meals, and so much more.

Try the event management software planners love

More tips for aspiring event planners.

  • The 6 Must-Have Event Planning Skills You Need for Career Success
  • The Top Event Planning Conferences This Year
  • 10 Event Planning Tips Every Budding Coordinator Needs to Know

Still searching for answers about starting an event planning business?

Do your research, make a plan, set a budget, define your scope of work, and throw amazing events!

You should plan to set aside at least $15,000 to $25,000 to start a small event planning business.

Event planning can be quite a profitable career choice. The best event planners will make a name for themselves and be able to charge high prices for their vision, creativity, execution, and results.

  • Free Planner Tools
  • Event Seating Software
  • Event Check-In Software

Venue Tools

  • Event Diagramming Software
  • Interactive Floor Plans
  • Photo-Realistic 3D
  • Lead Capture Tools
  • Event Planning
  • Guides & Webinars
  • Customer Stories
  • Contact Sales: +1 (877) 973-2863
  • About Cvent
  • Cvent Community
  • Help & Support
  • Training & Certification
  • Status & Uptime
  • Terms of Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • Your Privacy Choices
  • +1 (877) 973-2863 - Option 1
  • [email protected]

how to start business party planning

Copyright 2024 Cvent Inc. All rights reserved.

TRUSTe

How to Start a Party Planner Home Business

  • Home Business
  • Small Business
  • Online Business
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Operations & Success

Leslie Truex has over 20 years of experience as a writer and a home entrepreneur. She is the author of multiple books on running a home business.

Planning parties might sound fun, but it takes more than booking a caterer and DJ to make a living at it. It also requires diplomacy, salesmanship, multitasking, and above all, a desire to help other people enjoy themselves. Party planner engagements can range from weddings and product launches to corporate seminars and awards dinners. Tasks can include renting a hall, mailing out engraved invitations, coming up with a theme, booking entertainment, deciding on the food, and hiring waitstaff.

The median income for event planners is over $61,000 according to Salary.com, with the range being from $52,901 to $72,329 per year.

There is no specific education or training required to become a party or event planner, but experience can go a long way in helping you know what to do and what to expect. Further, having a network of professionals from caterers to entertainers will be important in having the resources to supply what clients want for their party or event.

Starting a parting planning business offers many perks including:

  • Can be started with little investment
  • No formal training is required
  • You can start from scratch or invest in a franchise event business opportunity
  • Can be run from home
  • Ideal for people who are outgoing and enjoy working with others
  • Doing business with people and businesses out to have a good time
  • Job variety
  • Potential new clients at every event
  • A six-figure income with the right clientele

It's not all party balloons and confetti in the planning business. Some negatives about the business include:

  • Long or odd work hours. Party planners need to be on-hand during the event, which often runs evenings or weekends. Some may be multi-day events.
  • Every event can be stressful as you only are as good and popular as your last party.
  • It can be difficult to get your first clients.
  • Clients can be difficult and unreasonable in their expectations.
  • Reliance on subcontractors.
  • Pressure to look your best whenever doing business.
  • The client always comes first.

What You Need to Get Started

While there's no specific education or experience you need to get started as a party planner, there are a few skills and to-dos that are involved, such as:

  • If you've never planned a party or organized an event, volunteer to do one to make sure you have the stamina and interest in event planning as a business .
  • Write a business plan outlining your service, prices and financial projections. This is the time to decide if you're going to focus on a specific type of event, such as weddings or conferences.
  • Although not required, you might want to get the Certified Meeting Planner certification  as it can increase your marketability. Clients will feel more comfortable working with someone they think has been vetted. This can also allow you to charge higher rates.
  • Determine what and how you're going to charge for your services. Keep in mind your clientele and the event. Weddings and large corporate events have high expectations and lots of work, whereas an office party usually has less.
  • Create your contracts. Consider having a lawyer to help you to make sure you cover every possible legal ramification.
  • Obtain the needed business license and liability insurance.
  • Create your marketing plan and promotional materials, such as business cards, brochures, and a website. Determine your ideal market and how you'll reach it to get clients. Consider including videos of successful parties, with your clients' permission, of course.
  • Gather images and testimonials of your events to create a portfolio of your success. Also, develop a plan for generating referrals.
  • Develop a network of reliable suppliers and professionals needed to help you pull off your events, such as florists, caterers, photographers, and DJs.
  • Get active in your community, especially with your local chamber of commerce and other business-to-business networking. Not only can you generate business from these events, but also, cultivate referrals.

If you have trouble getting your business off the ground or want more experience before going on your own, consider getting an event planning job.

  • How to Start a Wedding Planner Business
  • The Pros and Cons of Starting a Party-Planning Business
  • 37 Home Business Ideas
  • How to Start an Event Planning Business
  • 7 Things to Include in an Event Planning Business Proposal
  • Help Your Customers See the Value of Event Planning
  • Learn How to Start a Wedding Planning Business
  • How to Get Started in Event Planning
  • How to Write an Event Planning Business Plan
  • Event Planning Checklist Guideline
  • How to Start a Career in Event Planning
  • How to Grow an Event Planning Business
  • How to Find and Hire the Best Event Planner
  • Wedding/Special Events Planner Skills
  • Event Planner Marketing Strategies
  • Wedding Coordinator Job Duties

Blog Hero Image

How to start an event planning business in 8 steps

In 2020, the COVID-19 crisis changed everything for event planners. Whether the industry thinks of 2020 as a deviation or devastation strongly depends on how planning professionals adapt to uncertainty. One thing's for sure, virtual and hybrid meetings are here to stay, with the virtual market at $94 billion in 2020 and an expected compound annual growth rate of 23.7% between now and 2028 .

With all the change in the air, enterprising event entrepreneurs build social connections no matter the distance. So read on to avoid being amongst the 50% of all small businesses that fail in the first 5 years—and, more importantly, to give your new event planning venture the right start.

1) Evaluate your event planning skillset

It's common for event planning newbies to believe the business is all about showmanship, champagne, and shindigs. While that's the final product of your meticulous preparation, things behind the scenes are much less spectacular. There are a hundred to-dos that the planning professional must check off for every event to guarantee an enjoyable time for the client and guests.

Amongst other tasks, you may have to:

  • Create an event theme or design.
  • Find a venue.
  • Arrange entertainment.
  • Book vendors.
  • Send RSVPs and marketing info to attendees.
  • Balance the budget.
  • Coordinate with staff and subcontractors.
  • Decorate the space.
  • Oversee the caterers and bar staff.
  • Supervise the event.

If you want to start an event planning company, it might be smart to test out a job or three before making the dive. To begin, think about signing up as a personal assistant or apprentice for an experienced party planner. That way, you can evaluate whether the work is a suitable match before venturing out on your own.

Or you can look below for traits you already possess or ones you're willing to pick up as you go.

  • Attention to detail. Planning events requires diligence with finances, logistics, and time management.
  • Customer service. Event planners must contact their clients often. Thus, excellent customer service may help build the planner's reputation and improve client satisfaction.
  • Education or experience. Knowledge of best practices and prior event planning experience help. A party planner may have also attended college or earned a certification.
  • Interpersonal relationship skills. During a single event, an event planner will need to engage various people, many of whom will not be the planner's staff. Therefore, it's critical to form solid interpersonal connections and work effectively with a wide range of personalities. An event planner is the ultimate "people person."
  • Negotiation. Event planners negotiate with suppliers, entertainers, and contractors to reduce expenses while ensuring the client receives what they want.
  • Organization. Every event has many moving components that planning professionals must manage, and good organization is essential throughout the process to guarantee that nothing is missed or neglected.
  • Under-pressure performance. Even with the finest preparation, unforeseen problems will arise during an event. Event planners must create solutions to issues fast and always think on their festive feet.

Create your event planning business plan

"Whatever you do, do it well. Do it so well that when people see you do it, they will want to come back and see you do it again, and they will want to bring others and show them how well you do what you do."

Those words are from the man who has created more magical experiences than anyone else. Walt Disney's quote sounds like inviting people to your party, and his wisdom is perfect for those who make a living by bringing folks together. But before you can show the world how well you do what you do, consider the following questions when starting your business :

  • Executive Summary: How would you describe the business and your potential success?
  • Overview: What's the business's background, legal structure, and other key attributes?
  • Industry Analysis: What does market research reveal about the event planning industry in your area, including size, opportunity, and current trends?
  • Competitive Analysis: Who are your competitors, and what are their strengths and weaknesses?
  • Marketing: What is your marketing strategy to reach potential customers?
  • Management: What unique skills do you bring to the business?
  • Operations Plan: How will you manage the day-to-day tasks of the business?
  • Financials: What are your estimated revenues, expenses, and profits for each of your first 5 years?

2) Find your event planning niche

Finding a niche is as simple as picking a subset of the broader event planning industry to concentrate on or specialize in. A niche allows you to shine in an overcrowded marketplace and helps your target market track you down. Saying yes to the wrong client is saying no to Mr. or Mrs. Right. So, find the niche that matches your expertise and focus.

Take a look below for common niches and types of events.

Corporate Events

  • Award ceremonies
  • Charity and non-profit events (such as fundraising events)
  • Conferences
  • Corporate bonding retreats
  • Corporate meetings and seminars
  • Fashion shows
  • Golf events
  • Grand Openings
  • Experiential events (such as pop-ups and product or service launches)
  • Holiday parties
  • Networking events
  • Trade shows

Private/Social Events

  • Anniversaries
  • Baby showers
  • Bachelor/bachelorette parties
  • Bridal/wedding showers
  • Milestone birthday parties
  • Murder-mystery parties
  • Theme parties
  • Surprise parties
  • Wedding planning

3) Uncover your event planning unique selling proposition (USP)

Your unique selling proposition expresses what distinguishes you from every other event planner. According to top business thought leaders, in a world where clients are drowning in options and competition is fierce, 90% of a small pie is preferable to 10% of a large pie. So, for example, an enterprising event planner might create the USP, "Grand Opening Specialist for Luxury Retailers."

4) Pick your event planning business name

Are you ready for some fun? Business ideas move to the realm of reality as soon as a company has a name. Pick a name that blends your niche, USP, and expertise as an event planner. Perhaps it's as simple as Grand Openings Event Planning Company or as whimsical as Lux Influx Events. Try a business name generator , research competitors, or brainstorm with friends and family.

5) Figure out your financial plan

According to event planning tech company EventForte, profit margins in the industry can go as high as a healthy 40% . But don't rush off to the bank quite yet. To earn top dollar, you have to get those financial duckies in a row. So, if numbers are not your cup of event planning tea, you can always rely on a bookkeeper, software, or your favorite accountant. Then, when you're ready, you need to crunch your upfront costs and set up your pricing.

Calculate your startup costs

If you're starting as a side hustle, you'll need little more than a home office, computer, phone, website, some marketing materials, and event management software. It's common for people to get started for less than four or five thousand bucks. Furthermore, Entrepreneur.com estimates between $8,000 and $31,000, with the lower end for home-based business and the more expensive side for the type of business that launches with an office space and a few employees.

Structure your pricing strategy

How should you charge for your planning services? Your location, expertise, niche, and competition will help you set your fees. Below you'll find the five most prevalent ways of pricing event planning.

  • Hourly rate. A typical hourly fee for a novice event planner may be as low as $25 per hour and over $100 per hour for top event planners. Usually, a corporate event generates approximately 30% higher rates than social events.
  • Flat fee. A flat fee makes it straightforward for you and the client and is probably the most common arrangement. It is customary to charge a price for your services and a percentage of total vendor fees. A typical vendor commission runs from 10 to 15%. For instance, if a caterer's fee is $4,000 for an event, your cut for finding and arranging that specific vendor would be $400-$600.
  • Percentage of the event. Some event planners choose to charge a portion of the entire event budget, such as 15 to 20%.
  • Day-of coordination. At some point, a client will ask you for day-of coordination. This fee structure is most common for wedding planners, but it may also occur at other types of events.
  • Vendor commission. A small percentage of planners opt to either drastically reduce their fees or charge nothing for their services, earning all their money via commissions from the vendors they choose.

6) Get your paperwork in order

It's just a few hurdles to jump, and you're racing toward the finish line.

a) Register your business name with the state

Before you find your first clients, you need to register your business entity with state and local authorities. Also, you'll need to pick a type of business structure such as sole proprietorship, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation.

b) Apply for your EIN

Your employer identification number (EIN) identifies your business for taxes. Surprisingly, getting one is both free and easy. Get your EIN here .

c) Open a business bank account

Once you have your EIN, you can open a business checking account, apply for a loan, and separate your personal and business finances.

d) Obtain permits and licenses

This step separates the planners from the pretenders, but it's well worth the hustle to protect your reputation and potential clients. Your state will likely require several permits and licenses for your business and events. Standard ones include:

  • Building permit (tents). You need one for carnivals, political demonstrations, pop-up performing arts, races, and many other outdoor events that require tents.
  • Business license. Almost all businesses require licensing with the state to operate.
  • Event permit. The requirements vary by city, so contact the local government for relevant ordinances.
  • Fire/fireworks permit. You must check with your county if it's legal to display fireworks for your event.
  • Health permit. You can get this from your county's health department.
  • Liquor license , if applicable. You'll have to get this if you're planning to serve alcoholic beverages, and you can check the Alcoholic Beverage Control board for your state's specifics.
  • Noise permit. If your event's outside, you'll likely need one.
  • Seller's permit. You may need this as an event planner.
  • Temporary use/structure permit. There are two kinds of temporary use permits. One is for vacant land, and the other is for temporary space for parking, vendors, and loading areas.

e) Insure your event planning business

Some first-time event planners forget about insurance until it's too late. When you're dealing with the public, there's always the potential for the unexpected. Every event planner needs solid small business insurance —that's why it's essential to shop around to lock in the best deal. Check out this overview of important coverages you may need to insure your event planning business :

  • Workers' compensation : This coverage protects your employees if they get sick or injured while working in your event planning business. Every state requires workers' comp, and the consequences of skipping this coverage could cause the state to close your business. (You can get a quick estimate on what you'd pay for workers' comp with our 60-second workers' compensation calculator. )
  • General liability insurance : This policy protects your event planning business if you're sued for a property damage or injury claim. (Expensive lawsuits can quickly put an event planning service out of business.)
  • Property insurance : This policy protects your event planning equipment, such as your laptop or other devices you use in your business or home office from perils like fire or theft.
  • Business interruption : This coverage, also called business income insurance, provides financial support to your event planning business if you must close because of a covered reason.
  • Business Owner's Policy: This policy bundles general liability, business property, and business interruption insurance for your event planning business in one convenient package.

7) Hire your first employees

Many event planners launch as solopreneurs, but they soon look for a personal assistant. Or perhaps you want to hire a junior planner, salesperson, or office manager. Of course, you'll need workers' compensation insurance to operate legally whenever you add that first team member. After finishing your paperwork and legal requirements, head over to the Small Business Administration for a helpful checklist.

8) Spread the word about your new event planning business

Event planners are marketers at heart. After all, who's better at promotion than party planners? Now, you can parlay some of that creativity to advertise your new business. When building your marketing strategy to attract new clients, you could:

  • Build a website . Get the domain name for your business. A service with templates like Weebly or Squarespace can make this easy.
  • List your local business on Google and Yelp. Sign up for your Google My Business and Yelp profile.
  • Launch your social media profiles. Get your unique Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest, and other handles relevant to your niche.
  • Distribute brochures, flyers, and business cards. Call it old-fashioned, but it still works, and you might get your foot in the door with new clients.
  • Create word-of-mouth. Small Business owners know there's nothing better than word-of-mouth advertising, and the best way to get it is to please clients with a service they can rave about. Ask happy clients and customers for video testimonials that you can post on your website and social media accounts.
  • Partner with related businesses. Businesses such as caterers, florists, and photographers can be excellent referral sources.

Bonus: Check out these tips for running a successful event planning business

You're just about ready to start your own event planning business, so it's time to break out the bubbly. But before you pop the top, perhaps you're still thirsty for more best practices. Here are a few places with knowledge you can sip on:

  • Event Manager Blog : A great online library of articles, webinars, and videos covering every facet of the event planning industry.
  • Meeting Professional International (MPI): "Meeting Professionals International is the largest meeting and event industry association worldwide. The organization provides innovative and relevant education, networking opportunities, and business exchanges, and acts as a prominent voice for the promotion and growth of the industry."
  • #EventIcons Podcast : The hosts interview event-industry luminaries and up-and-comers, and the topics span from the everyday to the unexpected. The show has a friendly atmosphere and is a wealth of information for both beginners and seasoned experts. If you want to watch, #EventIcons is also accessible in recorded video format.

This article's been a lot to absorb. Maybe you're pondering just how to stay sane as an event planning entrepreneur .

If you're still crazy enough to start a party planning business, you can get insurance with Huckleberry in about the same time it takes to make your favorite caterer's samples disappear. (Getting a quote is free, easy, and 100% online.)

Buy business insurance online in less than 5 minutes.

No paperwork. Instant coverage. No-commitment quote.

Related Blog Posts

how to start business party planning

The content of this page is for general informational purposes only. It should not be relied on as legal, tax, insurance, financial, or other professional advice and is not guaranteed to be accurate, complete, current, reliable, or error-free. See the Terms of Service for further information about this website.

Share this post...

Colin Shipp

  • About Colin
  • Work With Me

How To Start A Party Planning Business

Author Image

by Colin Shipp  

Updated On:  September 27, 2022

Take your passion for planning amazing parties and turn it into a profitable business venture! With a little hard work and creative marketing, you can become the go-to party planner in your area.

An event planning business can be a fun and rewarding way to make a living, and it has the potential to be quite profitable.

The event planning industry is booming, as people now prefer to hire professional planners to take care of their special occasions. It takes a lot of creativity and hard work to be a successful party planner, but it can be an incredibly rewarding career.

Many have dreams of starting their own party planning business but don't know where to start. If you're one of those people, this guide is for you! 

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about starting an event planning business, from writing a business plan to marketing your services.

Everyone loves a good party, whether it's holiday parties, birthday parties, engagement parties, children's parties, or any other type of party.

As an event planner, you can turn your love of planning parties into a successful business. Just follow these simple steps, and you'll be on your way to becoming a successful party planner.

Looking For More Business Options? Check out these business ideas .

Evaluate Your Event Planning Skillset

The first step to starting an event planning business is to evaluate your event planning skillset. Do you have what it takes to be a successful party planner?

To be an experienced party planner, you must be organized, creative, and detail-oriented. You should also be good at working with people, as you'll be dealing with clients regularly.

If you don't think you have the necessary skills to be a successful party planner, consider taking some event planning courses or getting a degree in event management. For newbies, we recommend working under someone else until you learn the process or take an online program.

Hundreds of online courses are available, but this is a great way to learn the basics and start quickly. To be a successful party planner, you must have strong organizational skills and work well under pressure.

Evaluate your skillset

You should also be creative, as you'll need to develop new and innovative party ideas regularly. Being detail-oriented is also important, as even the smallest details can make or break a party.

Finally, you should be good with people, as you'll deal with clients regularly. If you don't think you have the necessary skills to be a successful party planner, consider taking some event planning courses or getting a degree in event management.

Create Your Event Planning Business Plan

The next step is to create your event planning business plan for your event planning company. This will be a detailed document that outlines your business goals, strategies, and tactics. Your business plan should also include a marketing plan, as well as a financial forecast.

Whenever you do anything related to your business, refer to your business plan to ensure that you are on track.

A well-written business plan is essential for any successful business, and a planning business is no exception. Your business plan should outline your business goals, strategies, and tactics. It should also include a marketing plan and a financial forecast.

To own an event planning business is to have the ability to work for yourself and be your boss. The business plan document should reflect these qualities.

The business plan should also answer the following questions:

  • What are Party Planning businesses in my area?
  • Who is my target market?
  • How much money do I need to start my business?
  • How will my business be structured? (Sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.)
  • What are the estimated startup costs?
  • What are the ongoing expenses?
  • How will I generate revenue?
  • What are the long-term goals for my business?

Every event planner is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer to these questions. However, your explanations should be detailed and specific to your business.

To become successful in the party planning industry, you'll need to answer these questions confidently and with a well-thought-out plan.

Find Your Event Planning Niche

The next step to starting an event planning service is to find your event planning niche. When it comes to event planning, there are endless possibilities.

You can specialize in corporate events, weddings, birthday parties, or any other event. Figure out what kind of events you're most interested in and focus your business around that.

When you narrow down your focus, you'll be able to market your business better and attract your ideal clients. Market research is the foremost important thing you should do in this stage. Knowing your target market is the key to a successful festive planning business.

There are four primary types of event planning businesses:

Wedding Planning Businesses Specializing In Weddings

Wedding party planners are responsible for helping couples plan their big day. They guide everything from finding the perfect venue to choosing the right florist.

Wedding planners typically work with a team of other vendors to ensure that every wedding detail is taken care of.

A proper wedding planner should have a strong understanding of the wedding industry and know how to negotiate with vendors.

Corporate Event Planning Businesses

Corporate event planners are responsible for organizing corporate events such as conventions, conferences, and company parties.

They work closely with a company's marketing or human resources department to plan an event that meets the company's objectives.

Corporate event planners must be able to handle a large budget and coordinate with multiple vendors.

Social Event Planning Businesses

Social event planners are responsible for organizing parties, showers, and other social gatherings.

They work with their clients to choose the perfect venue, catering, and entertainment for their event. 

Social event planners typically have a background in event planning or hospitality.

Non-Profit Event Planning Businesses

Non-profit event planners are responsible for organizing fundraising events, galas, and other special events.

They work with various vendors to get the best deals, from venues to catering. Non-profit event planners must have a strong understanding of the non-profit sector and be able to work with a tight budget.

Uncover Your Startup Costs

Now that you know what type of event planning business you want to start, it's time to uncover your startup costs.

The amount of money you'll need to start your business will vary depending on the size and scope of your business.

If you're planning on starting a small event planning business, you can get by with a few thousand dollars. However, if you're planning on starting a large event planning business, you'll need at least $10,000.

Event planning services can be expensive, so it's important to understand your startup costs before starting your business.

According to the business tycoons of event planning, some of the major startup costs include:

  • Business entity fees
  • Licenses and permits
  • Website design and development
  • Event planning software
  • Marketing materials
  • Office Supplies
  • Computers and phone systems

It depends on the type of business you want and how much you'll need to spend on marketing. Planning events is a fun and rewarding business, but it takes more than just organizing skills to get started.

If you're planning on starting a corporate event planning business, you'll need to spend money on business cards, a website, and advertising. However, starting a small event planning business can get by with just a few hundred dollars for business cards and flyers.

Choose A Name Of Your Business

After you have figured out your startup costs and what type of event planning business you want to start, it's time to choose a business name.

The name of your own business is important because it will be the first thing potential clients see. Choose a name that is memorable and easy to pronounce.

Avoid using long names or names that are difficult to spell. You want potential clients to be able to find you easily online and on the yellow pages. Almost as important as the name of your business is the tagline.

The tagline should be short, sweet, and to the point. It should describe what your company does in a few words.

For example, "The best corporate event planner in town." The ultimate goal is to make it easy for potential clients to remember your name and what you do.

Register Your Business To Make It Official

The next step is to register your business with the state.

This will make your business official and allow you to open a business bank account. You will also need to choose a business structure, such as an LLC or sole proprietorship.

Once you have registered your business, you will need to get a business license from the city or county where you plan on doing business.

Nowadays, you can usually apply for a business license online. To avoid scam artists, make sure you are applying for a business license from the official website of your city or county.

You can visit your area's nearest Chamber of Commerce to register your business. Apply for your EIN (Employer Identification Number) online with the IRS. You will need this number to open a business bank account and file your taxes.

Get Insured For Your Protection

One of the most important things you need to do when starting a party planning business is to get insured.

This will protect you and your business in case something goes wrong during an event. Insurance will also give your clients peace of mind knowing that their event is in good hands. You will need general liability insurance and possible errors and omissions insurance.

Public liability insurance will protect you if a guest is injured at an event or damaged property. Insurance will cover errors and omissions if you make a mistake that leads to a financial loss for the client.

You can get insurance through an insurance broker or an insurance company. For small businesses, the best place to get insurance is through the Small Business Administration (SBA).

Open A Business Bank Account For Your Event Planning Company

A separate business bank account is a must for any event planning business. This will help you keep track of your expenses and income. It will also make it easier to file your taxes at the end of the year. You can open a business bank account at most banks and credit unions.

When shopping around for a bank, compare fees, such as monthly maintenance fees, minimum balance fees, and ATM fees. You will also want to find a bank that offers free online banking and bill pay.

Keeping good records and receipts of expenses is important if you use your account for business purposes. This will make it easier to file your taxes at the end of the year. But, it is still a good idea to open a separate business bank account.

Hire Your Employees To Help Run Your Business

You will need a great team of employees to help you plan and execute successful parties. Hiring the right employees can make or break your business, so taking your time when hiring is important.

Make sure you hire people passionate about event planning and have the necessary skills to help your business run smoothly.

Start by creating a job posting that outlines the position you're looking to fill. Then, post the job on online job boards and reach out to your network of contacts. Once you've received some applications, start scheduling interviews.

During the interview, ask each candidate about their experience in event planning and ability to work under pressure.

After interviewing all the candidates, it's time to make your decision and extend an offer to your top choice.

Open Your Office Space

Opening your doors for business is a big milestone for any company. If you're planning on running your party planning business out of your home, you may not need to worry about this step.

However, if you're planning on opening an office space, there are a few things you need to do first.

First, many event planners must find the perfect location for your office. The location of your office will play a big role in the success of your business, so be sure to choose wisely. Once you've found the perfect place, it's time to start setting up your office space.

You'll need to purchase your office's furniture, equipment, and supplies. You can find used office furniture and supplies online or at local thrift stores if you're on a tight budget. Once your office space is set up, it's time to start seeing clients.

Plan Your Marketing Strategy

Now that you have your party planning business up and running, it's time to start marketing your services.

There are many ways to market your business, such as online, print, or word-of-mouth. Marketing is the most crucial asset for any business, so make sure you allocate a good portion of your budget to marketing.

One of the best ways to market your party planning business is through social media accounts. Social media is a great way to reach potential clients and build relationships. Make sure you create a strong social media presence for your business.

Use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to post photos and updates about your business.

You can also use social media to run promotions and give away discounts. Another great way to market your party planning business is through online directories, such as Yelp and Google My Business.

These directories will help potential clients find your business when they search for event planners in their area.

If you have little or no money to spend on marketing, start by reaching out to your network of family and friends. Ask them to spread the word about your business and give you referrals.

Create Your Pricing Strategy

After marketing, the fee structure is the most important aspect of your party planning business. It would help if you found a pricing strategy that works for you and your business.

There are many ways to price your services, so research before settling on a price. You can also offer discounts for large parties or repeat customers.

A business owner's guide to pricing can help you determine the best pricing strategy for your business. If you're unsure how to price your services, start by reaching out to other party planners in your area.

Ask them how they price their services and get an idea of the going rate.

You can make a pricing strategy that includes:

Hourly Pricing

You can charge your party planning services by the hour. This is a popular pricing strategy for event planners.

Event Pricing

You can charge a flat fee for each event you plan. This is a popular pricing strategy for wedding planners.

Guest Pricing

You can charge by the number of guests at an event. This is a popular pricing strategy for large parties.

You can offer discounts for large parties or repeat customers. Potential clients are always looking for a bargain, so discounts can be a great way to attract new business.

Why Should You Start Your Own Event Planning Business

Are you an experienced event planner looking to start your own business? Or perhaps you're new to the party planning industry and are looking for a way to get started.

Either way, there are many reasons why starting your own event planning business can be a great idea. For one, the profit margins in the event planning industry can be very high. You can easily make a healthy profit with the right mix of events and clients.

Nice profit margins for party planning

Additionally, if you have experience in event planning, you'll have a leg up on the competition. You'll already know the ins and outs of planning successful events and have a head start in landing your first clients.

So if you're thinking about starting an event planning business, there are plenty of good reasons. There's profit potential, service demand, and room for growth. So what are you waiting for? Start making your plans today!

As a business owner, you'll be responsible for all aspects of your company, from marketing and sales to event logistics and coordination.

If you're detail-oriented, enjoy working with people, and have a knack for organizing, a party planning business could be the perfect fit.

You can turn your passion for party planning into a successful business with a little hard work and dedication.

Follow the steps outlined in this article, and you'll be on your way to becoming a party planning pro in no time!

About the Author

Colin Shipp

Colin Shipp  

Colin Shipp is a marketer who has been working remotely full-time since 2015. He specializes in growth marketing, content marketing, online courses, and remote work. On ColinShipp.com he writes about strategies he is using in his own life.

Get Your Party & Event Planning Business Essentials Today!

Foster growth with 250+ time-saving, business-specific templates. Swift designs, easy tools, all in one place.

Starting Your Party and Event Planning Business

Diving into the world of party and event planning offers an exhilarating opportunity to bring joy and memorable moments to people's lives. The first step towards this rewarding career is immersing yourself in the industry's vibrant atmosphere. Understanding the ins and outs, from selecting superb venues to orchestrating impeccable timing, is paramount. It's about becoming a maestro, where every detail contributes to the symphony of a successful event. Networking with seasoned professionals while nurturing a flair for creativity will set you apart. Embrace the essence of innovation by always being on the lookout for dynamic trends that can elevate your events from great to extraordinary.

woman singing on stage

The Challenge of Initial Investment

When considering how to start in the realm of party and event planning, the first hurdle often encountered is the initial investment required. It's not just about having a flair for coordination or an eye for detail; there's a tangible financial commitment. From securing a workspace to investing in planning software, the costs can add up quickly. Furthermore, building an inventory of decorations or catering equipment can significantly strain your budget. Navigating this phase requires careful financial planning and perhaps seeking external funding or loans.

Building a Reliable Vendor Network

The success of an event planning business heavily relies on the strength of its vendor network. It's one thing to know how to start conversations with potential vendors; it's another to seal deals that are beneficial both cost-wise and in quality. This entails a lot of research, meetings, and negotiations. Establishing trust with vendors ensures not only competitive pricing but also reliability and quality service delivery. It's a step that demands patience, persistence, and exceptional communication skills.

selective focus silhouette photography of man playing red-lighted DJ terminal

Marketing Your Unique Value Proposition

In the saturated market of party and event planning, standing out might seem daunting at first glance. Identifying and communicating your unique value proposition is crucial. This involves understanding what you can offer that others don't - be it niche markets, specific themes, or unique vendor relationships. Crafting your marketing strategy around this uniqueness will attract your target audience more effectively. Social media platforms and online marketing can be particularly effective channels for showcasing your services.

Managing Client Expectations

One common pitfall in the event planning business is the mismanagement of client expectations. The key lies in clear communication from the outset about what is feasible within given budgets and time frames. Educating clients about potential challenges while offering creative solutions builds trust and safeguards against future disappointments. It also helps in managing stress levels when unforeseen issues arise during events. Ultimately, satisfied clients become recurrent clients and are likely to refer new business your way.

people raising wine glass in selective focus photography

Navigating Seasonal Fluctuations

The event planning industry is notably seasonal, with certain times of the year being busier than others. Understanding how to navigate these fluctuations is essential for maintaining steady business growth. During off-peak seasons, focusing on building relationships, updating portfolios, and enhancing skills can prove beneficial. It's also an opportune time to reach out to potential clients with special offers. Diversification into corporate events or workshops can also help mitigate income variability throughout the year.

Boost campaigns with 250+ editable templates. Save, reuse, and wield design tools for business growth.

Leveraging Technology for Efficiency

In today's digital age, leveraging technology can significantly enhance operational efficiency in party and event planning. From project management tools to digital marketing platforms, technology offers myriad ways to streamline processes. Investing in software that assists with budget tracking, client communications, and vendor management can save considerable time and reduce errors. Moreover, social media platforms provide cost-effective means to promote services and engage with both current and prospective clients directly. Embracing technology not only simplifies logistics but also elevates the professional image of your business.

person performing heart hand gesture

Cultivating Resilience amidst Challenges

The journey of starting an event planning business is fraught with challenges that test resilience at every turn. Whether it's dealing with last-minute changes or navigating client dynamics, the ability to stay composed under pressure is paramount. Cultivating a mindset geared towards solution-finding rather than dwelling on problems distinguishes successful planners from those who falter. Additionally, embracing failures as opportunities for learning ensures continuous improvement and adaptability in this dynamic field. Fostering resilience not only aids personal growth but also enhances business reputation.

Utilizing Desygner for Creative Solutions

In the highly visual world of event planning, presenting ideas creatively is essential for winning over clients and executing memorable events. This is where tools like Desygner come into play, offering user-friendly design solutions without requiring extensive graphic design skills. With its plethora of templates ranging from invitations to promotional materials, Desygner facilitates professional-quality designs with ease. It's an invaluable resource for planners looking to elevate their visual presentation game affordably. Utilizing such tools effectively can significantly impact client perceptions and business outcomes positively.

## The Importance of a Proper Beginning in Party and Event PlanningIn the realm of party and event planning, the initial steps one takes can often set the tone for the entire venture. The significance of "how to start" cannot be overstated, as it lays down the foundation upon which the business will grow, thrive, or falter. A well-conceived beginning is akin to setting the stage for a grand performance, where every detail adds to the spectacle, ensuring that the audience's experience is nothing short of magical.### Crafting a VisionThe journey begins with a vision. This vision is not merely about having an idea but sculpting that idea with precision, passion, and purpose. In the bustling world of event planning, standing out requires more than just uniqueness; it demands excellence. A meticulously crafted vision serves as a compass, guiding every decision, from branding to client interactions. It becomes a beacon that attracts clients who share similar values and aspirations, creating a harmonious relationship from the outset.### Building RelationshipsStarting on the right foot in this industry also means laying the groundwork for robust relationships. These are not only with clients but also with vendors, venues, and collaborators. A positive initial interaction sets a precedent for trust and reliability, two cornerstones of any successful service-oriented business. When parties involved know what to expect from each other and feel valued in their contributions, it fosters an environment ripe for creativity and cooperation.### Setting StandardsMoreover, how one starts often dictates the standards by which the business operates. High standards in organization, communication, and execution become the norm rather than the aspiration. This commitment to quality from day one ensures that each event is not just an occasion but an unforgettable experience. It's about creating moments that resonate emotionally with clients and their guests, transforming fleeting occasions into lasting memories.### Cultivating GrowthA well-planned startup phase can dramatically influence the trajectory of growth. By focusing on solid foundations--like defining target markets accurately, investing in marketing wisely, and establishing operational procedures--a new business can avoid common pitfalls that many encounter. This strategic approach allows for sustainable expansion, leveraging early successes into long-term achievements.### ConclusionIn conclusion, starting correctly in the party and event planning business is not just beneficial; it's imperative. The initial steps lay down a path filled with opportunities for creating exceptional experiences, fostering meaningful relationships, cultivating high standards, and driving sustainable growth. In essence, how one starts determines not just where they go but how gracefully they arrive there--making every moment along the way truly extraordinary.

man sitting on chair underwater with floating bottles

Concluding Thoughts on Launching Your Party and Event Planning Business

In wrapping up our guide on embarking upon a successful party and event planning venture, it's crucial to emphasize the importance of passion, dedication, and strategic planning in turning your dream into a reality. Starting your own business in this vibrant industry offers an exciting opportunity to bring joy and memorable experiences to people's lives while showcasing your creativity and organizational skills.

Remember, the journey to building a successful event planning business is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires patience, resilience, and continuous learning. You'll encounter challenges along the way, but with the right mindset and approach, these hurdles can be transformed into stepping stones towards achieving your business goals.

  • Develop a comprehensive business plan.
  • Identify your target market and niche.
  • Invest in marketing and promotional strategies.
  • Cultivate strong relationships with vendors and suppliers.
  • Focus on delivering exceptional customer service.
  • Stay abreast of trends and innovations within the event planning industry.
  • Utilize social media platforms to enhance visibility and engagement.
  • Leverage tools like Desygner for professional branding and design needs.

By adhering to these guidelines and embracing the power of tools such as Desygner for your marketing materials, you're setting the foundation for a prosperous event planning business. These efforts will not only contribute to operational efficiency but also aid in cultivating a reputable brand image that resonates with your target audience.

To embark on your journey with confidence, consider signing up at Desygner today. This platform will provide you with the resources needed to elevate your branding and marketing efforts, ensuring that your event planning business stands out in a competitive market.

laughing people in party

Unleashing the Power of Innovative Marketing in Party and Event Planning

__placeholder_related_content_2__

Unleash the Magic: Content Creation for Party Planners

UNLOCK YOUR BUSINESS POTENTIAL!

Get every material you need for your business in just a few clicks

Weekend. Grab 70% OFF For Three Months. --> Buy Now & Save

Don't Let This

Incredible discount.

on Our Yearly Plans Slip Away.

Offer Ends in

The Clock is Ticking!

on Your Invoicing Plan Today.

All You Need to Know About How to Start Event Planning Business

Table of Contents

All You Need to Know About How to Start Event Planning Business

Step-by-Step Guide to Start Your Event Planning Services

Step-by-Step Guide to Start Your Event Planning Services

Here is how you can set up a successful event-planning business.

1. Build a Solid Business Plan

No business ever became great without planning. Your skills need a solid foundation to be useful to clients who are willing to invest their trust in you. Thus, you need to carefully scrutinize multiple aspects including ideal customer profiles, budgets, locations you plan to cater to, competitor analysis, marketing initiatives, and your 5-year goals. Here are some things you will need to add to your business plan. This will come in handy when you prepare for your pitch for investors.

  • Overview- This must include your business background, legal structure, and other important attributes
  • Executive Summary- A description of your business and your success metrics
  • Industry Analysis- Market research analysis including opportunities, size, and trends
  • Competitor Analysis- Detail out the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors
  • Marketing Strategy- The channels of communication and platforms that will be used to reach out to your potential customers.
  • Operational Management- How do you plan to manage day-to-day operations and handle breakdowns?
  • Financial Plans- Estimated expenses, revenues, and profits will come under this section

2. Register Your Business

Your business idea for your event will see light only when you register it. For the same, you first need to pick out a business name before any of your competitors pick it. We suggest selecting a name that does justice to your niche, and expertise and highlights your USP. If you are not sure of which name to pick you can brainstorm with your close circle or try a business name generator. The next step is to register your business. Take the help of a lawyer to make sure you adhere to all legal proceedings.

Sign up with Moon Invoice Today and Skyrocket Your Revenue!

Time track your activities to make room for projects

Send estimates to high-ticket clients in a single click

Sign up with Moon Invoice Today!

3. Determine Your Legal Structure

Selecting a business structure means complying with local and state regulations. Thus, it is a must that you explore all the business structures available before you make a decision. The options include opening a business in partnership, as a corporation, or as a sole proprietor. You will have to keep in mind that they will have different financial and legal implications.

Thus, it is a must that before you start finding your first clients, you register your business with local and state authorities. The next step is to get your employer identification number (EIN) for simplified tax calculations.

4. Open a Business Bank Account

Now that you have an EIN in place, you can open a business checking account. It will also help you in applying for business loans and keep your personal and professional expenses separate. This will help you in the long run as mixing the two will make it difficult to track revenues as your clients increase in number. Additionally, it will be easier to calculate taxes and report your income and expenses.

5. Get Insurance and Licenses

As a first-time wedding planning business owner you can forget about insurance. However, when it comes to dealing with such large public gatherings, uninvited breakdowns can creep in. Thus, every event planner needs a solid insurance plan. So, make sure you consider all benefits and disadvantages and get a plan that covers all losses.

The next step that will take your reputation a notch higher with clients is having all the permits and licenses. Some of them include:

  • Building Permit: These permits are needed to arrange for outdoor events that require tents. These include musical performances, carnivals, political demonstrations, and even concerts.
  • Liquor License: If your clients need to get alcoholic beverages served, having a liquor license is a must as per state guidelines.
  • Noise Permit: This is a must if your event is being performed in the open and would continue till late night
  • Seller’s Permit: You will need to sell a few items as an event planner
  • Temporary Use Permits: One such permit is to organize events at a vacant land while the other is for vendors, parking, and loading areas
  • State Business License: Must for all businesses operating within state boundaries
  • Fireworks Permits: You will need to check if your city guidelines allow for displaying fireworks for your event

6. Set Up an Accounting System

Set Up an Accounting System

Establishing an accounting system for your event planning services will ensure you have information about your business finances in real-time. You can choose to track expenses via spreadsheets in the beginning. However, you will need dedicated accounting software as your clientele starts growing. This will help your team track income, and expenses, and generate reports as needed to get timely financial insights .

7. Have A Dedicated Invoicing System

If you are happy with late payments, then there is no point in having a dedicated invoicing system. However, if you look forward to smoother cash flow , you must invest in good invoicing software. We suggest choosing one that offers the maximum event planning invoice templates. This will help you get paid on time and even before, customize invoices, and foster long-term relations with clients.

Streamline Your Payment Systems

Say Goodbye to Poor Cash Flow with Moon Invoice

Sign Up For Free Today!

8. Hire Your Team

However skilled you are, you cannot singlehandedly run a great event planning business. You will need to hire staff like chefs, marketing professionals, vendors, office assistants, and accountants. Initially, you can hire these people on a part-time or freelance basis. Thus, it is a must that you start networking at the earliest to get referrals. This way you will be able to sub-contract them in the future.

9. Print Business Cards

If you are keen on networking offline, it is a must to have business cards. However, you might be strapped for cash in the beginning. Thus, you can always make business cards on Canva . This will not only help you create multiple designs, but you can also get them printed for affordable prices.

10. Build Your Portfolio

The next step in our step-by-step guide on how to start an event planning business is collating all high-quality images of past events you have organized. If you have not started this yet, you must start ASAP. Also, if you cannot find many images, try searching for pictures of past family events you have organized.

They can be parties, marriages, birthdays, or even holidays. It doesn’t matter if they were of small or large scale, they can serve as a testimonial to your planning skills and attention to detail.

11. Work on Your Social Media Accounts

As a new business owner, you can be wary of using social media, as you have a lot on your plate. However, if you don’t wish to start your social media journey, it will be helpful to create an account on social media platforms. This will prevent your competitors from claiming those names. As your business grows in size, you might change your mind about being active on social media. Thus you will be able to choose from a variety of options. As an event planner, we suggest you promote your business on Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, and TikTok (depending on location).

12. Market your Business

The event planning industry is rife with competition. However, marketing your business with proper channels will set it apart. Your first few clients may come from referrals, online offline ads, word-of-mouth marketing, or even your blog. Thus, it is a must to invest in the right marketing channels to reflect your professionalism and get access to high-quality leads. Another way to get customers and spread the word about your business is to print out pamphlets and distribute them.

How Much Does it Cost to Start an Event Planning Business?

How Much Does it Cost to Start an Event Planning Business

Coming to your favorite and most important part of our “How to Start Event Planning Business” blog. Well, the average cost of starting your event planning services can be between 600- 5000 USD. You will need to consider multiple costs and then make a budget that best suits your requirements.

Marketing and office expenses along with human resources costs can vary from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Not to forget material costs, website costs, and business cards. Moreover, you will need to consider the time costs as it will take some time to get your business up and running.

Furthermore, you will need to outsource some services as you will not be able to manage everything on your own. This will further add to your costs. Thus, you must plan your costs and follow a dedicated budget.

Final Words

Starting an event planning business is highly rewarding. From setting business bank accounts to selecting the right event planning invoice templates, selecting the right event management software to hiring the right event professionals, the tasks are plenty.

However, even with competition, you must not forget that event planning is a $3 billion industry and if you have your USPs set your services will always be in demand.

Thus, the possibilities for your party planning business are endless. Now that you are armed with all the knowledge, it is best to kickstart your operations and make your entrepreneurial journey unimaginably successful.

Event planning managers can easily make up to 15-30% of profits from a single event, making the business highly profitable.

How to start a party planning business with fewer resources?

In such cases, you will need to find sponsors for your events and provide them with services in exchange for their money. As your business picks up gradually, you will have funds to manage operations better.

What are the 7 stages of event planning?

Here are 7 steps to plan your events minus the stress.

  • Collect a list of all events and resources you will need
  • Set a calendar for all the small and large events considering time for breakdowns
  • Assemble your team
  • Negotiate prices with your suppliers
  • Start working on the arrangements
  • Get client feedback and make the changes
  • Be present at the event to handle moment mishaps

How do you plan a small business event?

Here is how you can plan a small business event:

  • Determine your purpose and audience
  • List your deliverables, available resources, and what all is needed clearly
  • Double-check your calendar
  • Build your budget and make sure you don’t overshoot it
  • Develop a marketing plan
  • Promote your event on social media and run ads

What are the 5 P's of planning?

All event planners must focus on the five P’s to organize stellar events. These are Plan, Place, Permission, Partner, and Practice respectively.

Why is event planning important?

Event planning is a must as it helps you develop contingency plans, budget your expenses, ensure the perfect chronology of events, and promote teamwork.

Share Article:

Design Invoices in 60 Seconds

  • Experience full-fledge invoicing module with estimates, POs, receipts
  • Get offline support to work seamlessly
  • Multiple payment gateways + custom payment method
  • Live customer support
  • Manage projects and customers efficiently
  • Automate workflow, get analytics, & more

For my business, one of the headaches was managing both stocks and expenses. Luckily, I switched to Moon Invoice and found the hassles of stock and expense management getting faded. Thanks to this amazing invoicing app.

  • We Make Invoicing a Childsplay!
  • No Complex Features, No Longer Processes
  • Save Time, Boost Productivity

sticky_popup

Purchase Silver Plan

Unlimited Contacts

Moon Invoice

We earn commissions if you shop through the links below.  Read more

18 Party Business Ideas

Back to Business Ideas Categories

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on July 21, 2022 Updated on February 12, 2024

18 Party Business Ideas

If you like to socialize and have great organizing skills, then starting a party-related business might be the perfect career choice. Great attention to detail will also help. But what sort of business will you start?

You could organize paint, princess or Botox parties , or get into party planning, decorations or catering. There are a lot of possibilities, which is why we’ve put together this list of brilliant party business ideas for you to explore.

1. Party Planning

How to start an event planning business

Ready for good times? As the pandemic recedes, parties are back, big time. The US party and event planning industry is worth more than $3 billion and growing as more and more people plan the big blow-outs they’d delayed for so long. Graduation parties, weddings, bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthday bashes and much more. If you’re well organized and know how to have a good time, you could start your own party planning business and ride this wave to a major payday. 

With minimal investment, you can run your business from home to keep costs low, and charge 15-20 percent of the total budget for the event. The biggest hurdle will be getting those first few clients, and for that you’ll probably want to set up an appealing website and launch a strong marketing and promotional campaign. Once you’re able to provide those early customers with excellent service and unforgettable gatherings, you might want to start partying yourself, to celebrate your future success.

2. Party Rental

How to start a party rental business

Let’s get this party started! As the pandemic recedes, lockdowns and restrictions are being lifted and people are finally getting out and about again, which is good news for parties, gatherings and other events. US party rentals is a $5 billion industry that’s expected to see sharp growth in the coming years.

You could start a party rental business, grab a share of that vast market and help people have fun by providing tents, bars, bouncy houses, karaoke machines and more to people looking to have a good time. You could also offer more standard party supplies such as tables, chairs, tents, food and beverage carts. Whichever route you choose, buying the equipment will require a significant investment, but that’s the only major hurdle standing in your way. After that, you’ll just need to register as a business, set up an appealing website and let the good times roll!

3. Pearl Party

How to start a pearl party business

Never heard of a pearl party? You’re not alone, but that’s changing fast. Pearl parties are lively gatherings at which women — and it’s usually only women — come together to enjoy and learn about brilliant gems. These parties used to take place in-person, at the home of the host, but since the start of the pandemic they’ve moved online and become incredibly popular.  

A pearl party is a great way to make money while having fun. As the host, you’ll welcome all your virtual guests and then start opening the oysters, one at a time, to reveal the brilliant pearl inside. Each attendee owns one or more of the oysters and gets to keep whatever is found inside. The value of the pearls ranges from $20-$40, and a pearl party host can make up to $2,000 per party, or more.  

A typical pearl party will also include a business presentation , jewelry demonstrations, and consultations in which attendees discuss their jewelry interests. The pearl party host ensures all attendees have ample opportunity to purchase as many pearls as they like. For the host, the key is finding pearl suppliers who offer quality pearls at good rates. If you’re thinking of starting your own pearl party business, now’s a great time to get in on the action.

4. Party Room

party room business idea

With the pandemic winding down, social gatherings are popping up. And what better way to get the party started than to start renting out a party room? Parties of all sizes are part of the broader global events industry, which is projected to surpass $2 trillion by 2028. Getting a slice of this huge events industry pie is a tremendous business opportunity. 

You can start your party room business by converting an idle space in your home into a suitable venue for gatherings. Fill this up with some suitable furniture, invest in decorations depending on the party theme, and you’re good to go. Gardens and any outdoor space also provide perfect venues, especially in a world where the outdoors is safer than indoors. With careful planning and creative execution, you can create a party venue that both adults and children will enjoy.

5. Party Bus

How to start a party bus business

Ready to party? As the pandemic recedes, everybody’s looking to get out and have fun. For many, that means renting out a party bus and dancing and drinking the night away while cruising down the streets. Party buses are part of the $8 billion US limousine industry, and expected to see strong growth as more and more people schedule long-delayed bachelor and birthday parties, graduation events and just fun nights out on the town. 

Starting a party bus business will require considerable investment. The major cost will be, of course, the bus itself. Hopefully you’ll be able to find a reliable one at a reasonable price and then deck it out with all the trimmings, from a bar and disco ball to a DJ booth and more. Once you’ve done some marketing and gotten the word out, you’ll be able to charge as much as $700 per night, so it shouldn’t take too long before you see a nice return on your investment. 

Just be sure to get all your licenses, permits and insurance — the last thing you want is for the party to get parked on the curb.

6. Paint Party

paint party business idea

Are you looking for a fun and creative new venture? If so, a paint party business could be perfect for you. Paint parties, at which attendees paint and socialize, are a blast, and great for all ages. A recent survey found that 47% of Americans are interesting in painting, photography, playing an instrument, and other artistic endeavors.

It’s pretty simple to start a paint party business. You just need to find a suitable location for your studio, buy canvas or acrylic paint at the best price, hire painters for your event if you’re not an artist yourself, promote your party on social media platforms, and then sit back and relax while getting paid!

You can also go virtual and host paint parties through a video conferencing app. Just send painting kits to the participants in advance. With the right knowledge and skills, a paint party business can be successful.

7. Party Decorating

How to start a party decorating business

As concerns about coronavirus infection diminish, people are planning birthday celebrations, weddings, festivals, and other gatherings, boosting demand for party supplies. So if you’re looking to start your party decorating business, now is the time to put your plans into action. The global party supplies market is expected to see strong 9% annual growth through 2027, and North America accounts for the biggest market share.

Before you start your party decorating business, it’s a good idea to scope out the competition and see what they’re offering to determine what kind of products and services you’re going to provide. Identifying a niche is also important. After you comply with the regulatory requirements of starting a business, developing your website and social media presence is to your advantage, especially if young adults are among your target markets. With careful planning and creative marketing, your party decorating business can be very successful.

8. DJ Business

How to start a mobile dj business

What’s a big event without a DJ dropping some bouncy beats? As the events industry bounces back from the coronavirus pandemic, so does the DJ market. Global sales of DJ equipment are expected to grow and reach $732 million by 2026. If you love remixing and creating new tracks, setting up a DJ business could be a great way to make a living.

But a DJ business is not just about having the best beats. There’s a lot of work that goes into it. Having easy access to digital platforms and streaming services will lessen your burden. You’ll also need to have the right skills and equipment. Then you’ll want to establish your brand, promote your services and grow your social media following to attract clients. With excellent service, you can easily gain loyal customers and sustain your business.

9. Princess Party

princess party business idea

Most little girls have probably dreamed of becoming a princess. You can help make that fantasy a reality with your own princess party business. A princess party is probably the most popular party theme for girls under 12 — and there are more than 25 million of them in the US. That’s a lot of princess parties!

You’ll want to familiarize yourself with the different fictional princesses to be able to come up with fun ideas for the perfect princess party. The invitations, props, costumes and wigs, decorations and giveaways must correspond with the theme. And don’t forget tiaras! 

But before you launch your business, it is important to make sure that it’s legally compliant. You will also need a business plan, including a creative marketing plan to attract clients. If you do it right, a princess party business can also be profitable.

10. Wedding Planning

How to start a wedding planning business

Who doesn’t love a big wonderful wedding? Of course, everything has to be absolutely perfect, which is why so many Americans choose to hire a wedding planner. Wedding planning is a nearly $900 million industry in the US, and poised to do well as many couples are finally able to put their long-delayed nuptials on the calendar. If you’re well organized and enjoy making grand plans, you could start your own wedding planning business and create magical memories for countless couples and their loved ones while grabbing a share of this major market. 

The first decision is to choose what type of wedding planning you’d like to offer: full-service, partial service, or event coordination. Full-service planners take care of absolutely everything, from the flowers to the table placements and even the weather (they wish!). Partial service planners provide assistance with key aspects of the wedding, such as outfits or location, and event coordinators just keep an eye on the details for couples who’ve done most of their own planning. You might want to offer all three services, and optimize your chance of success!

11. Wedding Venue

How to start a wedding venue

Maybe you’ve heard — the pandemic is finally over. People are starting to party again, which means we’ll soon be seeing a lot of weddings! Weddings are a growing $60 billion US industry in the US. If you own or have your eye on an appealing venue, you could launch a wedding venue business and make a good living by giving happy couples and their families memories that last a lifetime. 

The biggest expense is of course the venue itself. If you already have a big space in a great location, you’re halfway there — and probably should have launched your wedding venue business years ago! Assuming you still need to find one, your best bet might be to look for aging and abandoned barns and farmhouses in rural areas, which have become an increasingly popular wedding option.

Once you’ve nailed down a great venue, you just need to do some marketing and let that gorgeous setting do the work for you. With any luck, you’ll soon be booked solid through the spring and summer.

12. Wedding Rental

How to start a wedding rental business

Starting a wedding rental business can be highly profitable and gives you the opportunity to help couples live their dream on a budget. Nearly two million weddings were held in 2021 and the number could increase to almost 2.5 million in 2022. The increase is also reflected in the positive performance of the US wedding services industry, which is predicted to bounce back from the pandemic and grow to nearly $58 billion in 2022. 

Before you get started with your wedding rental business, it’s important to understand the market. You can start small from your home by renting out accessories like bridal earrings, wedding veils, hand gloves, tiara, and more. As your business grows, you can move to selling wedding gowns and suits. If you have the capital, you can rent a space or a garden and develop this into a wedding venue for rent. There are numerous possibilities and it’s up to you to grab the opportunity. Good luck!

13. Shaved Ice Business

How to start a shaved ice business

What’s more refreshing than shaved ice on a hot summer’s day ? Not much, which is why snow cones and shaved ice have been gaining in popularity in recent years and are now making a major splash. This is a great time to start a shaved ice business and spread the summertime joy. All you need is a mobile pushcart or food truck, a shaved ice machine and some tasty flavored syrups and you’ll be good to go. 

The key step will be finding unique and appealing flavors in an increasingly dynamic and experimental market. These days, restaurants like David Chang’s Majordomo are serving up Japanese-style shaved ice, while street vendors offer flavor combinations like blackberry-lavender and watermelon-basil. 

Whichever options you choose, you should know that the US frozen dessert market is worth $53 billion and expects strong growth through 2028, which means opportunity is there for the taking for the bold entrepreneur.

14. Cake Making

How to start a cake business

Nearly six out of 10 Americans eat dessert after a meal at least once a week, and cakes are among the favorites. Cake consumption is growing steadily in the US despite the increasing preference for healthy food. Well, those with a sweet tooth always find an excuse to indulge in cakes. If you’re fond of baking and designing cakes, starting a cake business might be the perfect career choice for you. 

This type of business can be run from home so you can minimize your overhead cost. Once you’ve registered your business, you should find a reliable supplier of ingredients and supplies. Besides offering unique birthday cake designs, you might also want to introduce gluten-free and sugar-free cakes to cater to all kinds of customers. Keep yourself updated with the latest market trends and consider coming up with cakes in a box or tin can cakes. A cake business will require a lot of creativity, hard work and an effective marketing plan.

15. Catering

How to start a catering business

Do you have great culinary skills? Have you always dreamed of making your delicious dishes for hundreds of people? Now is a great time to start a catering business. The industry is seeing strong growth as the pandemic recedes and more and more people plan major events, like weddings and corporate affairs. If you’re looking for an inspiration, here are profitable catering business ideas and opportunities .

The crucial first step will be nailing down an initial menu. Do you favor traditional American dishes? Are you obsessed with Italian? Or maybe Mexican, Thai or Middle Eastern food is more your thing. Once you decide, fill out the menu with appetizer options, second courses, soups and salads, and a selection of entrees and desserts. And don’t forget Americans’ dietary issues — be sure to include low-fat, gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. 

Next you’ll want to nail down your product offerings. For example, some caterers today are providing box lunches for in-office events. You should also consider embracing technology, as today’s top event planners often use apps to book the best caterers. Lastly, it’s crucial that you acquire all the necessary licenses and permits, as food businesses are strictly regulated. 

Now you’re ready to get in the kitchen and start making a lot of smiling faces, and a lot of money.

16. Balloon Business

How to start a balloon business

Balloons are always a big hit. They make the perfect gift for children and adults alike, and they make even virtual parties fun and exciting. The global market for party balloons has continued to thrive and is anticipated to grow 5% annually through 2030. If you’re looking for a fun business idea, you might want to consider starting a balloon business. 

The first step is to pick the type of balloons that you want to create, whether latex or foil. Latex balloons are more commonly used and considered the golden standard in parties, while foil balloons offer more diverse options in size, shape and color. They also last longer than latex balloons, although they’re less elastic and more vulnerable to heat damage. Each type of balloon presents advantages and disadvantages, so carefully considering these is important. Actively promoting your business to attract potential customers or prompt past customers to make repeat orders could also spell success for you.

17. Gift Basket

How to start a gift basket business

It’s hard to go wrong with a gift basket of wine, fruit, or flowers, whether for family, friends, or colleagues. It’s an excellent choice if you don’t know what the recipient likes or if you’re sending to multiple recipients. 

The versatility of gift baskets has kept demand high over the years, especially from the corporate sector. The US corporate gift market is predicted to cross $300 billion in revenue by 2024. If you’re an artistic entrepreneur, why don’t you grab this opportunity and start a gift basket business? It’s a great way to use your creativity and sell something that people will love.

Before you get started, it’s to your advantage if you choose a niche and craft your marketing strategy. Having a strong online presence is crucial to your success, so it’s a good idea to start developing your website and social media accounts as soon as you decide on your branding strategy. Of course, it’s important to make your business legally compliant so you need to work on your regulatory requirements as well.

18. Gift Wrapping

How to start a gift wrapping business

There’s nothing like the excitement created by a present wrapped in colorful paper and ribbons. If you’re looking for a profitable venture that will make your customers feel good, starting a gift wrapping business is a viable option. The market value of gift wrapping products in the US is expected to double to $7 billion by 2025 as people spend on gifts and gift wrapping not only during the holidays but also for every special occasion throughout the year.

To get started, you have to decide whether to just provide gift wrapping services at home or set up a shop. You will need to unleash your creativity to be able to offer unique gift wrapping ideas. Keep up with the latest trends and techniques to stay relevant and differentiate yourself in the market. It’s also important to stock up on wrapping materials and tools to make sure you can deliver what your customers want. With retailers constantly thinking about ways to make each day special, there will always be someone who will need your gift wrapping skills.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Party Planning
  • Party Rental
  • Pearl Party
  • Paint Party
  • Party Decorating
  • DJ Business
  • Princess Party
  • Wedding Planning
  • Wedding Venue
  • Wedding Rental
  • Shaved Ice Business
  • Cake Making
  • Balloon Business
  • Gift Basket
  • Gift Wrapping

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Featured resources.

14 Gift Shop Business Ideas

14 Gift Shop Business Ideas

Victoria Yu

Published on December 21, 2022

Gift shop goods can provide a fond memory of a trip or let others know you’re thinking of them while away. For locals, gift shops are a great wayt ...

45 Entertainment Business Ideas

45 Entertainment Business Ideas

Natalie Fell

Published on July 13, 2022

Let the good times roll! As entertainment outlets reopen and people gather for all kinds of celebrations, the entertainment industry is bouncingback ...

How to Start a Small Business

How to Start a Small Business

Carolyn Young

Published on January 15, 2022

Owning a successful business is one of the most rewarding things you can do with your life. It’s empowering and liberating, and allows you toprodu ...

No thanks, I don't want to stay up to date on industry trends and news.

How to Plan a Business Party

'  data-srcset=

Whether you like it or not, planning a corporate event isn’t quite like organizing a party event with your friends, regardless of how aloof and comfortable your office atmosphere might be. Although the event itself doesn’t need to feel too uptight, there does need to be a note of seriousness, which requires at least some degree of knowledge in event planning . This guide will help you get started.

Planning to throw a Startup Party? Read – How to throw a fabulous Startup Party.

You can’t really do it a couple of days before the big event

In fact, three or four months prior to your business party should be your planning start date. Why? Well, you can expect that you’ll need to book the venue and caterers if necessary. In order to get the best possible deal, booking a couple of months before the event will save you a ton of trouble.

Party planning committee

A party planning committee might seem like a bit of an exaggeration, but you will not be able to do everything by yourself, even if you had all the time in the world. Enlist at least one or two of your employees with a strong creative side to help you tackle the whole thing – brainstorming is always an excellent option and you can’t brainstorm efficiently without a couple of brains to help you out.

Set a theme

A themeless party is destined for failure. Additionally, setting the theme will give the event its tone, which is somewhat essential for throwing a decent party. It will also give you an excellent starting point for picking your food, music, décor and other “trivialities”. Of course, picking a theme that is appropriate for the target crowd that you’re planning on inviting is an absolute no-brainer. For example, a backyard barbecue will never be a good choice if you’re having your investors over, unless you are completely certain that they would appreciate being invited to such an event; this is exactly why knowing your attendees-to-be is such an important entrepreneurship quality.

Set a preliminary budget

Knowing how much you can spend is the key to planning in advance, especially for events that are best organized a couple of months ahead! Determine how much you can spend on food, room rental, entertainment, invitations and leave some wiggle room for extra costs (it is a preliminary budget overview after all). If you are planning on organizing an outside event, we recommend that you plan in accordance with the weather conditions typical for your climate during the target time of the year. A rough outline of what you may need is likely going to be enough and you can use the budget that you’ve designated for extra costs to get cheaper, yet useful options once the weather forecast becomes accurate enough. Some options can work no matter the climate or weather conditions; for example, getting a commercial shade sail is an excellent option, regardless of whether you need protection from rain or intense sunlight.

Start browsing for locations and meet the vendors

Once you’ve chosen what type of an event you’ll be making, you’ll significantly narrow down the choice of potential locations. However, this is the exact moment that you need to start making appointments to view locations and meet other vendors. Firstly, start discussing rental costs and everything that the fees include. Secondly, determine the time of the day that works for you. Next, if the food doesn’t come from that location, think about bringing an outside caterer. Finally, address other requirements, such as potential outdoor security, bartenders and decorations.

Planning a business party is not a last-minute thing – you’ll need plenty of time to get everything in order. Rely on your employees and colleagues to help you make the most out of the planned event, determine your preliminary budget, set a theme and start making appointments as soon as possible!

5 Tips on how to Start Your Own Pub

Starting a Home-Based Business? – Avoid These Mistakes

'  data-srcset=

My name is Diana. I'm a full time mom of two beautiful girls interested in topics related to marketing and latest business technologies.

You may like

Six strategies for startup success in 2024.

'  data-srcset=

Getting a startup off the ground is becoming more challenging than ever. In addition to fierce competition and economic uncertainty, entrepreneurs looking to achieve startup success in 2024 should also account for consumers’ growing distrust of brands — especially in tech. Moreover, research shows that people expect more from businesses in 2023 and beyond — especially regarding social issues . That can be a slippery slope if core values grow into politicized messages that could turn audiences away.

For these reasons, business owners looking to achieve their goals in 2024 must arm themselves with bulletproof strategies for startup success.

So, if you’re looking for data-based guidelines on successfully running your organization in the coming months, here are the six best tactics to help you stay on the right path.

Embrace the Power of Generative AI

One of the most effective ways to improve your business results in 2024 (though you should start implementing this tactic as soon as possible) is to embrace the potential of generative AI.

With its many applications, AI genuinely has the potential to transform your operations into highly efficient, affordable practices that will allow you to spend your time where it matters the most.

For starters, begin by leveraging AI for marketing and customer service purposes. Employ AI for content research and (human-supervised) creation. Use it to upgrade your marketing campaigns on search engines, social media, and email. Incorporate it into your content distribution practices to minimize the time you spend scheduling. And use it to organize your insights and expertise into user-oriented resources your customers can use to troubleshoot issues or get more out of their purchases.

Moreover, don’t be afraid to use AI to optimize your landing pages. The easiest way to do this is to employ AI as a research tool that informs you of web visitor behavior on your site. However, if you want to take things further, you can leverage AI to implement personalization or conduct A/B testing.

Lead with Values and Purpose to Connect with Your Audience

Today’s consumers don’t just want to invest in products or solutions that do the job. Instead, research suggests that people want to support value and purpose-driven brands that follow ESG best practices.

According to PWC, 80% of buyers are more likely to purchase from brands prioritizing environmental issues. 76% choose to support businesses whose social values align with their own. And another 80% will buy from brands that stand up for governance. Furthermore, McKinsey found that, in 2022, people spent more on products with ESG claims than those without, showing that leading with values and purpose allows organizations to reach and connect with their audiences.

Balancing sustainability with profitability can be a challenge — especially for startups looking to break into competitive markets. However, if you understand your target audience’s pain points and priorities and have a solid grip on industry trends, you can ensure you opt for the best approach to your business, giving consumers what they want without sacrificing profits. This is where high-quality resources like the Smash.vc newsletter come in.

Reap the Benefits of a Remote, Hybrid, or Distributed Workforce

One of the tremendous advantages of running a startup these days is that you can hire next-level talent regardless of your location (or your budget, for that matter). Thanks to the rapid advancement of collaboration technology, organizations can now find and collaborate with experts from all over the world without worrying about productivity drops or communication obstacles.

Of course, leading a remote, hybrid, or distributed workforce isn’t always a walk in the park. It necessitates a strategic leadership approach based on clarity, trust, and respect. Nonetheless, if you want to lead your brand to success in 2024, don’t hesitate to choose employees based on what they bring to the table instead of just where they’re momentarily located.

Deliver Personalized Experiences

One of the non-negotiable conditions for achieving startup success in 2024 is delivering an outstanding customer experience. And according to research, that may just come down to personalization.

In a 2022 survey involving over 13,000 consumers , Salesforce discovered that 73% of buyers expect companies to understand and meet their unique expectations. Even more, 62% want brands to anticipate their needs. From this data alone, it’s evident that building a successful brand that inspires not just conversions but loyalty as well necessitates a strategic approach to personalization.

In addition to working in a way that demonstrates your understanding of customer needs, play around with tools that will help you personalize interactions with future and existing clients. These can be anything — from email marketing platforms with advanced segmentation and automation capabilities to cross-selling ecommerce add-ons. Nevertheless, try not to go overboard with collecting consumer data, as too much personalization can be just as bad (if not worse) than none at all.

Embrace Multi-Channel Retail

Omnichannel sales was one of the leading business trends in 2023. And it’s only going to get bigger in 2024.

According to Statista, social commerce is expected to reach $2.9 trillion in value by 2026. And if 2026 is too far ahead for you to look, consider the fact that last year, brands that ran campaigns on three or more channels saw a mind-boggling 494% higher order rate than those that only invested in a single one.

So, if you want your startup to have the highest chance of success, align your marketing, sales, and content distribution strategies with consumer behavior data. For instance, a good place to start is to learn about how most people begin their shopping journeys these days. According to Jungle Scout, 56% of US consumers start product searches on Amazon, 42% use search engines, 37% go straight to Walmart’s website, 25% conduct product research on YouTube, and around 20% use social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Practice Frugal Decision-making

Lastly, as you endeavor to take your business further in the upcoming period, ensure you don’t get too ahead of yourself when making any decision impacting your finances.

Yes, earning impressive profits necessitates some degree of risk. However, keep in mind that slow-paced growth always outperforms rapid expansion — especially if you plan on building a business that will stand the test of time.

So, as you explore the best strategies for startup success in 2024, be sure to practice frugal decision-making. You can even go as far as to keep your business decisions on the traditional end of the spectrum. Sure, it may mean that your business won’t get where you want it to be in a matter of months. But if you consider the fact that almost 90% of all startups fail , slowing down your growth rate for the sake of a bit more security is the best decision you can make as an entrepreneur and leader.

There you have it: six of the most impactful strategies to adopt for startup success in 2024.

Of course, don’t feel like you have to employ all of these tactics. After all, you know your business (and your target audience) best. And that means that it’s you who’ll have the highest chance of making profitable decisions.

Still, keep in mind that all six of the business approaches outlined above offer mainly benefits (with very few, if any, drawbacks). Thus, they have a super high likelihood of helping your brand progress — especially if you are consistent with how you employ them.

8 Reasons Why Content Creation Is Crucial for Startups

'  data-srcset=

Startups are continuously looking for cutting-edge tactics to stand out and draw the interest of their target market in the ever-changing business sector. The development of content is one extremely effective instrument that has become a key component of this effort. The creation and distribution of material forms the foundation of a marketing strategy, helping to both attract and hold the attention of potential customers. In this article, we’ll go into eight incredibly persuasive arguments for why content production is a crucial component of a company’s success.

Building a Resonant Brand Identity and Amplifying Awareness

Firms receive a golden opportunity to build and present their individual brand identity through their media production process. Startups may masterfully explain their core values, mission, and unique selling propositions through finely written blog posts, captivating videos, and engaging social media updates. In addition to facilitating differentiation in a crowded market, the capacity to create a consistent and well defined brand identity also helps to build familiarity and trust among the target audience. This effective combination opens the door for increased brand awareness, giving entrepreneurs a particular advantage in a market teeming with rivals.

Cultivating a Citadel of Thought Leadership

Small businesses usually struggle with the problem of proving their knowledge and authority inside a certain industry. This is where the idea of creating media comes into play, giving entrepreneurs a vibrant platform to display their knowledge base and assume the role of thought leaders. Companies can climb the ladder of notoriety as authoritative voices in their chosen area by spreading intelligent articles, thoroughly researched whitepapers, and meticulously prepared industry analysis. As a result, prospective clients develop a sense of trust and confidence in the organization, which encourages them to see it as a helpful resource for advice and answers.

Nurturing Lifelong Customer Relationships

 alt=

Impactful content development has a wider range of applications than only attracting new clients; it is crucial for maintaining and fostering connections with current clients. By utilizing content, business owners can easily engage their audience after the initial sale by providing insightful information, practical advice, and timely updates. As a result of such continual contacts, customers are more likely to be satisfied and to return to a business. Furthermore, these content-driven discussions usually result in meaningful discussions that help entrepreneurs gain invaluable feedback and ideas for future iterations. Likewise these contacts can present chances for cross-selling, up-selling, and individualized suggestions based on specific client requirements.

Propelling Organic Traffic Through the Roof

Search engine optimization (SEO) is the cornerstone of contemporary marketing tactics. Premium content acts as a powerful SEO tool, driving a spike in organic traffic to a startup’s website. The likelihood of landing a top spot in search engine results increases when entrepreneurs deftly produce material that resonates harmoniously with their target audience and effortlessly incorporates relevant keywords. In addition to increasing visibility, this also attracts people who are actively searching the internet for the specific answers that the firm is prepared to offer. Understanding the most effective content optimization strategies is crucial because of this. A rise in organic traffic can have a positive impact on domain authority, search engine rankings, and the number of people who find the organization’s material.

Enlightening the Audience Through Invaluable Education

The benefit of educational content is unmistakable, especially for startups that market cutting-edge goods and services. Firms can educate their customers about the diverse benefits that their products offer and the pain issues that they expertly alleviate through the strategic art of media production. This educational strategy not only helps the audience better understand the product, but it also equips them with the information they need to make wise purchasing decisions. Customers who are well-informed are more likely to convert and then become ardent brand supporters. An organization’s reputation as a dependable industry authority can also be strengthened by positioning it as a go-to resource through educational material.

Illuminating the Prism of Product/Service Value

Organizations sometimes struggle with the problem of explaining the intrinsic value of their products, particularly if they launch a market-changing idea. Startups have a wide range of chances to showcase the useful applications of their goods or services thanks to material development. They can vividly demonstrate how their solutions smoothly resolve real-world problems and improve the quality of life for their clients by arming themselves with meticulous guidelines, immersive tutorials, and fascinating case studies. Additionally, demonstrating the worth of goods or services through content can help overcome objections and inspire trust in prospective clients.

Harnessing the Enormous Potential of Social Media Engagement

Social media has evolved into a powerful channel for customer connection and business promotion in the contemporary digital age. When used skillfully, content marketing enables startups to control an engaging and active social media presence. Companies may keep a firm hold on the audience’s interest and engrossment by arranging a symphony of varied elements, ranging from aesthetically pleasing photos to educational and compelling films. A firm’s exposure and reach could soar to incredible heights thanks to the possibility for material in this active social media space to go viral. In addition, participating in social media can promote in-the-moment conversations that let entrepreneurs respond individually to questions, worries, and comments.

Flexibility in Formats to Cater to All Tastes

As a flexible tool, producing material gives companies the freedom to test out a wide range of formats that are all made to appeal to different audience preferences. Startups can easily tailor their material to align with the preferences of their target audience, whether it be the timelessness of blog posts, the mesmerizing allure of videos, the immersive appeal of podcasts, the succinct efficacy of infographics, or the interactive nature of webinars. This versatility enhances the entire user experience while expanding the organization’s audience and successfully navigating a variety of platforms and channels.

Content production stands out as an unquestionable pillar of success for startups negotiating the complex terrain of the contemporary business scene. Companies that are at the forefront of creating valuable, timely, and engaging material are in a prime position to build relationships with their target audience, eventually establishing them as preeminent industry leaders and moving them up the scale of sustainable growth.

Offshore Vs. Nearshore Outsourcing – Ideal Approach for Business Growth 

offshore vs nearshore

The means of recruiting business personnel have significantly evolved. By outsourcing their digital needs, firms have gained more control of their processes and improved their productivity. It has allowed organizations in various industries like Insurance and IT to rely on international or nearshore teams to draw upon their services. 

Outsourcing software development is a great way to improve business performance and quickly scale up operations. Keeping costs low while staying at the forefront of innovation is a priority and outsourcing can help you achieve this goal.  

According to Statista, the IT outsourcing market is projected to reach $587.3 billion by 2027. It is essential to understand the differences between nearshoring and offshoring remote team models – two main types of outsourcing, to reduce costs and speed up the production of digital products. 

Offshore Vs. Nearshore Outsourcing: An Overview  

Both offshore and nearshore outsourcing involves hiring foreign workers for projects. With nearshoring, the countries involved are nearby, such as having an American IT firm hire staff from Canada. For offshore outsourcing, the firms are farther away from one another, like a Mexican company hiring developers from Poland, India, or Ukraine.  

Offshore Software Development Outsourcing provides the opportunity to draw from a larger pool of experts at a much lower cost, yet there is no control. Going with a nearshore developer means a client can outsource processes or tasks to a partner company while still in an excellent geographic area.  

Nearshore development presents a compromise, with the team being close enough for direct communication and onsite visits yet offering similar cost savings as offshore teams.  

Reason to Select Offshore Outsourcing  

Outsourcing works best for Startups to benefit from the lower wages software developers charge. According to reports, India is a popular choice for Offshore outsourcing services, with developers charging just $7.24 an hour .  

In addition to money-saving measures, offshoring grants access to a global pool of talented workers – something that may not be easy to achieve in a country like the US or the UK.  

There are many excellent examples of offshore outsourcing companies with experienced developers, providing access to a wealth of knowledge and existing skills. Accessing such know-how helps streamline the app creation process in getting it to market quickly and efficiently while minimizing the risk of common pitfalls. 

Prominent Limitations    

Before deciding to outsource to a distant vendor, you should take note of some potential disadvantages such as,  

  • Time zone differences could challenge direct conversations and urgent decisions with an offshore IT provider based in India compared to a US-based startup.  
  • Additionally, there is the potential risk of misunderstanding due to differences in language and culture. This could extend the timeline for development and cancel out any potential cost advantages.  

To avoid these issues, many US-based companies outsource to vendors in Eastern European countries like Ukraine or Poland, where cultural similarities are more likely to result in fewer communication issues. 

Reason to Choose Nearshore Outsourcing   

Through nearshoring, it is feasible to organize face-to-face gatherings between the startup and outsourced workers. It gives you an easy way to convey the project particulars to the programmers.  

  Furthermore, you can circumvent the potential issues of linguistic and cultural discrepancies. Eastern Europeans typically have a better grasp of English and more similar business cultures, making nearshoring a smooth process.  

Moreover, nearshoring lets you maintain stricter security over the app and related information. It is especially crucial when a company needs to comply with data protection regulations. For instance, Eastern European countries like Poland and Romania are under the GDPR’s regulation. If you are starting a tech business in the UK, contracting with outsourcing companies in the EU zone has advantages regarding understanding data privacy rules. 

Possible Limitations    

  • Nearshoring may not always be the least expensive option regarding development costs.  
  • It ultimately depends on the country to which services are outsourced and the associated cost of living.  
  • For instance, Eastern European developers may charge between $50-$99 per hour depending on their expertise, whereas developers from Asia usually demand more than $35 per hour.  

Nevertheless, even though offshoring may provide the most significant cost savings, nearshoring has the advantage of operating in more convenient or comparable time zones. 

Significant Differences Between Offshore Vs. Nearshore Outsourcing  

Now that we know about nearshore and offshore outsourcing, let’s compare the significant differences across different aspects.  

Timezone  

Regarding outsourcing, the time zone difference between nearshoring and offshore is significant. With nearshoring, it is possible to have teleconferences within working hours or meet in person. However, the distance may be an issue for offshore outsourcing partners as these can be eight or more hours away, making it difficult for real-time collaboration. 

Specialist Selection  

Nearshore vs. offshore outsourcing differs in the available talent pool. With nearshoring, clients are limited to traditional domestic solutions. At the same time, those seeking offshore outsourcing have access to a much broader collection of skilled personnel that they can recruit from all over the world.  

Nearshoring may limit your search to 5-10 potential candidates while with offshore outsourcing, it can expand to 30-50 experts for your required skills. Additionally, finding highly specialized personnel for projects that may not be readily available in the local market is often easier with offshore outsourcing than nearshoring. 

Cost  

Nearshore outsourcing is a cost-effective solution compared to offshoring. Developers in London typically receive an annual salary of $70,000 , while those in Eastern Europe can be hired for a more economical rate of $36,000 annually. Although offshore outsourcing manages your development work to countries such as India and China can be cheaper, nearshoring allows for a more substantial saving while still gaining access to low-cost labor. 

Essential Culture Differentiation  

Hiring offshore developers brings about various cultural differences, which can cause problems. For instance, US businesspeople commonly take a direct approach to communication. While those from China tend to be more restrained in expressing themselves, presenting logistical issues while working together.  

Things to Consider for Selecting the Best Offshore Vs. Nearshore Outsourcing  

When considering nearshore versus offshore outsourcing, keeping in mind certain things helps you select the best outsourcing. 

  • Deciding which skills are needed in the ideal employee for the project is essential. 
  • After identifying what you need and deciding your budget, research solutions on the market and compare the different talent pools of nearshore or offshore companies.  
  • Also, it is crucial to stay in contact with the developers in either type of outsourcing.  
  • In the case of offshore outsourcing, having a project manager to be the eyes and hands of the client is needed.  
  • Cultural differences can be expected, so it is essential to understand that somebody working differently does not necessarily mean they do a lousy job. 
  • Finally, rules and regulations should be set to maintain order. For guidance on this, a reputable outsourcing firm can help you. 

  Conclusion    

In a nutshell, it is essential to carefully consider the type of team and project when deciding between offshoring and nearshoring. Both methods can deliver outstanding products with the latest IT tools and techs, but you should consider the cost and cultural needs when making a final decision.  

Offshore solutions are more cost-effective and efficient for companies to introduce their products to global markets. At the same time, nearshoring provides a better fit in terms of cultural compatibility and can benefit highly specialized projects like video game development. 

Why are Organisations Still Using Outdated Windows Operating Systems?

Why are Organisations Still Using Outdated Windows Operating Systems?

Orion innovation partners with africa and gulf bank to provide innovative digital-first financial products and services, tsubame bhb procures 5.3 billion yen through series c.

Cybersecurity monitoring

Cybersecurity monitoring: the robot every organisation needs on their payroll

Digital paper app goodnotes acquires korean ai startup, dropthebit, to accelerate development of ai features.

how to start business party planning

Vertiv opens a New Manufacturing Facility in Pune to meet the surging demand for data centers and supporting infrastructure solutions in India

How to register a Startup in USA

How to register a Startup in USA

An Interview with Joel Arun Sursas, Head of Clinical Affairs at Biorithm, Singapore

upcoming fashion companies

6 Promising Up and Coming Fashion Companies

Factors to Consider When Planning Your Office Design and Layout

Factors to Consider When Planning Your Office Design and Layout

Russell Jack Interview

An Interview with Russell Jack, Southland-based Yogapreneur and Mindfulness Teacher

How to become an IPTV reseller

How to become an IPTV reseller? A beginner’s guide

IPTV for beginers

IPTV business for beginners

50 Small Business ideas with low investment

50 Small Business ideas with low investment

Subscribe to our Free Newsletter

Get Business and Marketing Insights from Experts, only on Times of Startups!

How to Start an In-Person Event Planning Business in 2024

February 20, 2024

Posted on February 20, 2024

How to start an in-person event planning business in 2024.

From lavish weddings to cushy corporate Christmas parties, everyone loves a big, splashy event. Of course, the best events require significant front-end planning , ensuring that everything from the venue to the menu is up to snuff.

If you love big events, are gifted in organization, and long for a truly creative and personalized line of work, starting an in-person event planning business may be right up your alley. But what steps do you need to take to get your company off the ground? And what are the key legal and financial considerations to make on the front end?

Table of Contents

Event Planning 101

We’ll get into all of that, but first, it might be helpful to summarize exactly what an in-person event planning company is. 

When you run an event planning company, you work with individuals, families, and business organizations as they seek to plan and execute large-scale events. Again, think weddings, big birthday parties, corporate soirees, and more.

There are a number of responsibilities that fall to the event planning company. A typical list of duties includes:

  • Scouting and securing the ideal venue .
  • Offering multiple venue, catering, decorating, and entertainment options to the client, allowing them to weigh in on preference and price point.
  • Creating and sticking to a budget, with the client’s approval.
  • Ensuring that all local laws are upheld, particularly with regard to alcohol service, venue occupancy, etc.
  • Coordinating with all vendors to ensure the most seamless possible experience for attendees.
  • Providing troubleshooting and logistical support during the event itself.
  • Giving vendors the necessary information regarding attendance numbers, dietary preferences, and the like.

There’s a lot that goes into in-person event planning, and to thrive in this field requires you to be gifted in communication, problem solving, time management, organization, and beyond.

What are the Steps for Beginning an In-Person Event Planning Company?

If you’re interested in launching your own bespoke event planning company, there are a few steps you’ll want to complete.

1) Cultivate experience.

To succeed in this business, you’ll need to have a full portfolio of skills. And, you’ll need to be able to convince potential clients that you have the expertise to pull off their event. One way to get both of these birds with one stone is to develop plenty of industry experience on the front end.

Getting entry-level work or even securing an internship with an event planning company can go a long way. It may also be worthwhile seeking a degree in event management, hospitality, business, or another relevant field.

2) Establish a vision.

Not all event planning companies are created equal. Before you get yours off the ground, it may be helpful to articulate exactly what you’ll do and how you’ll define success. Your business vision or mission statement might include:

  • A set of values you’ll try to uphold.
  • A general list of the services you’ll provide.
  • A summary of your target market or key demographics.
  • A summary of the type of experience you want your clients to have.
  • Some reflections on what will set you apart from your competitors.

A good vision document can provide guidance as you build out your event planning business.

3) Conduct market research.

You can do this step in conjunction with the previous one, as your vision statement may be influenced by your market research . Certainly, you’ll want to have a good sense of local demographics before you define your target audience. Also make sure you consider things like dietary or religious preferences that might be common to your core audience; these factors may include the way you run your business.

Be sure to also research competitors. Keep a list of the biggest event planning companies serving your areas, and be strategic in how you articulate your distinct value proposition.

4) Make a business plan.

Your business plan is a bit more concrete and a bit more specific than your vision statement. It may include such data points as:

  • Clearly defined goals for both the long-term and the short-term.
  • A timeline for when/how often you’ll review your business plan, making revisions as needed.
  • A summary of your staff infrastructure, along with basic allocations of duties and responsibilities.
  • A basic financial summary, including your source of starting capital, accounting system, a budget of monthly expenses, and revenue goals.

5) Invest in marketing.

Your event planning company will likely grow largely on the basis of word-of-mouth buzz. With that said, there are some important marketing investments you’ll want to make, over and above individual referrals. In particular:

  • Make sure you have a website that’s mobile-friendly, fast to load, and easy to navigate.
  • Set up shop on image-heavy social platforms (think Instagram), uploading high-quality photos of well-executed events.
  • Solicit reviews and testimonials from your satisfied customers.
  • Consider additional investments in blogging, PPC, and digital video.
  • Use a press release service to announce major milestones at your company, a great way to gain SEO value and backlinks.

What About the Legal Aspect of Business Ownership?

Beyond these basic considerations, you’ll also want to make sure you have the right legal positioning for the long-term success of your event planning company.

There are multiple legal structures you can choose for your business, but generally speaking, the most advantageous is the Limited Liability Company (LLC).

What is an LLC?

The LLC actually creates a distinct legal entity, meaning you can enjoy a clean line of distinction between yourself and your company. Among other benefits, this allows you to protect your personal wealth from litigation or potential creditors.

Additional merits of the LLC format include:

  • Different options for how you report your taxes.
  • Ample flexibility with regard to management structures
  • Relatively light annual reporting requirements
  • Ease of setup and administration
  • Plenty of leeway to scale and grow

How to Register Your LLC

As you can probably guess, establishing a new legal entity requires you to jump through a few hoops. Here’s a basic summary of everything you need to do to register your event planning company as an LLC.

  • Choose a name for your business. This is about more than just branding. You also need to ensure legal compliance, by selecting a name that isn’t already in use by another LLC in your state. There should be an online directory you can check.
  • Name a Registered Agent. Every LLC needs an agent to receive legal/tax correspondence on the business’s behalf. Being your own Registered Agent is allowed in some states, but it is more common to hire a third-party service.
  • File Articles of Organization. This document will detail the name and mission of your company, the names of your partners, and the contact information for your Registered Agent. File with the state, pay the filing fee, and allow three to four weeks for the approval process (on average).
  • Draft an Operating Agreement. This important document serves as a constitution for your LLC, denoting how responsibilities are allocated between partners, how assets are split, and how new partners may be brought into the fold.

Other Considerations for Launching Your LLC

Some additional steps for getting your event planning LLC up and running include:

  • Get an Employer Identification Number. Your EIN can be obtained from the IRS, and for U.S. citizens, it’s free. You’ll need this number to pay your taxes and to process payroll.
  • Set up a bank account. We recommend having a business bank account that is not linked to any personal checking or savings accounts.
  • Pay your LLC taxes. As of right now, there is only one state that requires LLCs to pay a special tax. That’s the State of California, where LLC taxes are $800 annually (flat rate). But you may need to pay a small fee each year to keep your registration active, no matter which state you’re in.

Seek Success Through Excellent Event Planning

Event planning can be a highly rewarding field for people who are sociable, creative, and good at organization. Make sure you follow all the right steps to establish a foundation for success.

The author Amanda E. Clark  is a contributing writer to LLC University . She has appeared as a subject matter expert on panels about content and social media marketing, as well as general topics related to small business ownership.

Share on your social networks:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)

Related Posts

how to start business party planning

The Ultimate Guide to 2024 Meetings and Conferences for Event Planners.

how to start business party planning

Sustainable Event Planning in 2023: 10 Smart Tips.

how to start business party planning

How to Use In-Person Events to Improve Your Content Marketing Strategy

how to start business party planning

Saying ‘Thank You’ Made Easy: Post Event Email Templates for Attendees, Speakers, and Sponsors

how to start business party planning

Increase Registrations by 20%: Powerful 2024 Event Registration Strategies

how to start business party planning

Tips for On-Site Badge Printing & Event Registration

how to start business party planning

The Power of Event Influencer Marketing For Event Promotion

how to start business party planning

Maximizing Ticket Sales: Advanced Event Marketing Techniques

how to start business party planning

The Evolution of The Super Bowl Halftime Show: Then vs. Now

how to start business party planning

The Guide to Event Ticket Pricing Strategies

how to start business party planning

Tech Trends Transforming Event Experiences

About the author / ana almeida.

InEvent author image

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Registration
  • Hospitality
  • Get in touch
  • Certification
  • Partnerships
  • Integrations
  • System Status

English

Upmetrics AI Assistant: Simplifying Business Planning through AI-Powered Insights. Learn How

Upmetrics

Business Planning

  • Financial Forecasting

AI Assistance

See how upmetrics works  →, strategic planning, entrepreneurs & small business, accelerators & incubators, business consultants & advisors, educators & business schools, students & scholars.

  • Sample Plans

Business Plan Course

Small business tools.

  • Strategic Canvas Templates

E-books, Guides & More

  • WHY UPMETRICS?

Customers Success Stories

  • Business Plan Builder
  • Canvas Modeling
  • Product Tour
  • Business Consultants and Advisors
  • Entrepreneurs And Small Businesses
  • Accelerators & Incubators
  • Educators & Business Schools
  • Students & Scholars
  • Sample Business Plans
  • business plan course
  • E-Books, Guides & More
  • Success Stories

How to Open a Wedding Venue in 2024: Step-by-Step Guide

10 Min Read

wedding venue business

If attending a wedding has ever left you surprised at the beautiful setups and sparked the thought of when you could launch your wedding venue, then you’re in the perfect place.

Jumping into the wedding venue industry opens up opportunities in a constantly in-demand market for celebration locations while also giving you the freedom of creativity. This business demands attention to detail, satisfactory customer service, and the flexibility to create a personal touch to the preferences of each couple.

Whether your goal is to earn additional income or to build a more substantial business, this detailed guide is designed to help you start and grow your own wedding venue business.

We cover everything from selecting the ideal location to understanding the legal and financial aspects. All the information that you need to begin and succeed in your perfect wedding venue.

Let’s take a closer look at the operation of a wedding venue business.

Wedding Venue Industry Overview

The wedding venue industry plays a significant role in weddings that happen all around the world. It provides a space where couples celebrate their big day. This business includes a variety of locations such as:

  • Banquet halls
  • Outdoor areas with natural beauty
  • Restroom facilities

Each place is different and helps make a wedding day special and personal.

The wedding planner industry is a highly customizable business that allows for niche expertise. This means that businesses can come up with solutions that reflect their target market, especially in industry trends having rapid growth.

By understanding the unique challenges and sector-specific needs of their clients, businesses can provide customized solutions that cater to their client’s needs.

Start a wedding venue business with 7 easy steps

  • Understand the market and competition
  • Write a wedding venue business plan
  • Figure out your finances
  • Select your wedding venue
  • Zoning laws, licenses, and insurance
  • Wedding venue renovation
  • Market your offerings
  • Start and promote your wedding venue

Making sure every aspect of a wedding is perfect from beginning to end is key to creating a memorable day. It’s important to remember that not only the big moments but also the way the event ends can significantly create a lasting impact on the guest’s experience.

Highlighting the same, Jeff Stillwell, the founder of Stillwell Events, shared his perspective in a conversation with Bride & Blossom.

He said, “If the band stops abruptly, the lights come on while some of your guests are still eating dessert and the party doesn’t have a smooth ending, this last impression will overshadow the beautiful decor and heartfelt moments of your wedding. My job is to make sure this doesn’t happen”

This viewpoint emphasizes how careful planning and effective management are crucial to ensure the conclusion of a wedding is as unforgettable as its beginning.

1. Understand the market and competition

Research the wedding venue market in your geographic area. Look up wedding venues in your region and identify what makes your venue special.

For example, suppose your venue is a lakefront property in a lake region. In that case, you will need to research how many other lakefront wedding sites are there and whether those venues are booked frequently so there’s overflow demand.

Here are a few things you can try answering to make your research comprehensive:

  • How many Local Wedding Venues are there around you?
  • How many weddings, on average, are held in my region annually?
  • What pricing models do competitors use, and what is the average cost of hosting a wedding in the area?
  • What amenities and services do other venues offer?

Gathering answers to these questions will not only help you measure the current state of the wedding venue market in your area. It also identifies opportunities to make your venue stand out and cater to the needs and preferences of your target audience.

2. Write a wedding venue business plan

Before getting things done, it’s important to have a detailed business plan. It helps to understand the start-up costs of your wedding business would incur.

Figure out ways to maintain the balance and seek financing options to source funding. You can find a wedding venue business plan template online to help you get started.

A successful wedding venue understands its goals, services, and strategies, and a business plan is a great way to conceptualize the practical aspects of business management.

This approach will ensure you have a solid foundation to build upon and navigate the path to establishing your successful wedding venue.

Not very good at writing? Need help with your plan?

Write your business plan 10X faster with Upmetrics AI

Plans starting from $7/month

how to start business party planning

3. Figure out your finances

Knowing how much cash you need and finding ways to get it is key to turning your dream into a reality. Let’s help you determine your starting costs, create a budget, and discover funding sources.

Start by evaluating your finances.

Consider the following question to answer:

  • Should you buy or lease your space?
  • Do you have enough for a down payment, or do you need a loan?
  • Do you plan to construct something new or renovate an existing building?

Figuring Out Starting Costs

It’s vital to know your initial costs, which include buying or leasing space, fixing it up, getting licenses, paying for insurance, starting marketing efforts, and buying equipment or decor to ready your venue for weddings.

Understanding these expenses helps you see how much you need to start.

Making a Budget

Next, put together a budget that compares your start-up and running costs with how much money you expect to make. It’s smart to plan for both good and bad financial times.

This keeps you ready and financially sound.

Looking for Money

After you’ve got a clear budget, you’ll know if you need more money to begin. If you don’t have enough funds, think about options like:

  • Loans for small businesses
  • Getting investors
  • Crowdfunding
  • Grants for businesses

These are some ways to find the extra money needed for your wedding venue business.

4. Select a location for your wedding venue

First, think about what kind of weddings you want to host. Are you dreaming of a barn wedding venue or something more modern? Knowing this helps you decide where to look.

Look for a place that’s easy for wedding guests to get to. This means not too far from main roads or public transport. If you want to open a destination wedding spot, think about what makes a location special for couples who are planning their big day.

Chat with wedding planners, wedding professionals, and other wedding venue owners. They can give you tips on what makes a successful wedding venue.

By following these steps and focusing on what makes your venue unique, you can start your wedding venue successfully and become a beloved part of the wedding industry.

5. Zoning laws, licenses, and insurance

After deciding on a place, ensure that you can legally run a wedding venue there. Each location comes with its unique set of regulations and requirements concerning business operations.

Understanding these legal necessities is a must, as they vary widely based on the nature of your business and its geographical setting.

Before starting any construction, hiring staff, or officially opening your venue, ensure you have:

  • Insurance for your property.
  • Insurance for employees, protecting them in case of work-related injuries.
  • Liability insurance

Remember, each permit and policy is a step towards realizing your vision of bringing joy and celebration to people’s lives. With careful planning and attention to detail, your wedding venue can be countless stories of love and happiness.

6. Wedding venue renovation

Initially, identifying the perfect location is a must. Whether it’s a barn venue that offers rustic charm or an outdoor space that provides a natural beauty, the choice of venue impacts its appeal to potential clients.

Once the site is selected, focusing on renovations becomes important to transform the space into a dream destination for couples.

Renovating an existing venue demands a broad approach. It involves upgrading the aesthetics to ensure the venue is visually stunning and more appealing.

Essential services like water and electricity need to be taken care of, especially in outdoor venues where such amenities might not be readily available. This may require engaging with local utilities or might be the need to invest in generators to ensure the venue can accommodate events seamlessly.

The development of restroom facilities is equally important.

Creating a catering space or kitchen area is also needed in many wedding venues.

Parking solutions also form an integral part of the venue’s infrastructure. Finally, the venue size to provide the clients with unforgettable experiences also plays an important role in the business growth.

A venue that captures the imagination, offering beautiful and unique settings for ceremonies and photographs, will stand out in the competitive wedding industry.

7. Staff recruitment and training

When you run a wedding venue business, having a great team is key. Consider factors such as the number of staff you need, their qualifications, and their training requirements.

Finding the Right People

  • Know What You Need: First, think about what jobs need to be done at your venue. You might need people to set up tables, serve food, or keep the place clean.
  • Look in the Right Places: Share your job openings online or in your local community. Sometimes, asking friends or people you work with if they know someone looking for a job can also help.
  • Interview Carefully: When you talk to people who want the job, ask them about their past work and why they want to work with you. It’s important to choose people who not only can do the job but also are excited about making weddings wonderful.

Teaching Your Team

  • Provide Training: Once someone is a part of your team, it’s important to teach them about their responsibilities. This might involve the correct way to arrange tables, the best way to interact with guests, or even the steps to take in unexpected situations.
  • Keep Learning: The wedding business changes a lot. New trends come up all the time. Have meetings with your team to talk about what’s new and how you can make your venue even better.
  • Say Thanks: When your team does a good job, tell them! A simple “thank you” can make people feel happy and appreciated. This helps them want to keep doing a great job.

Having a team that knows what to do and is happy to be there makes a big difference. It helps your wedding venue run smoothly and makes sure that every wedding is as special as it can be.

8. Start and promote your wedding venue

Guide yourself through the process of starting and promoting your wedding venue. Consider factors such as marketing, advertising, and social media.

With the internet and social media, finding a wedding place has changed. Now, people can look up places online and see pictures and reviews. This means that your venue should offer to use the internet and social media properly to show off the venue.

Moreover, your team should be good at talking to engaged couples planning to get married at your wedding venue.

Starting your own wedding venue business is an exciting journey that combines creativity with entrepreneurship. You’ll pick a beautiful place, fix it up, and make it the perfect spot for weddings. This job is all about giving couples a wonderful place to get married and make lasting memories.

To be successful in the wedding venue industry, understand what your client needs. It’s equally important to manage your finances with care and spread the word about your wedding venue.

Creating a detailed business strategy is essential in this process, and utilizing a business plan app can be helpful in planning and would pinpoint your goals and financial forecasts accurately.

Remember, your success will be measured by the happiness and memories you create for the couples who celebrate their special day at your beautiful venue.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks, AI-assistance, and automatic financials make it easy.

crossline

Frequently Asked Questions

How to choose your wedding venue location.

To select a wedding venue, start by setting a budget and estimating how many guests you are inviting. Choose a style for your wedding and find a venue that fits. Make sure the venue is free on your chosen date and offers the facilities you need.

Visit the venue to see it firsthand, look up reviews, prepare for bad weather, and don’t hesitate to inquire about details with the wedding venue owner.

Steps to Starting a Wedding Venue Business?

How to start a wedding venue business, is as easy as it sounds through proper planning, begin by researching the market and understanding your competition. Next, plan to secure a location that aligns with your vision and obtain the necessary permits and insurance.

Create a business plan outlining your services, pricing, and marketing strategy. Invest in making the venue appealing and functional for weddings. Lastly, promote your business through various channels and provide exceptional service to build a positive reputation.

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Wedding Venue?

The cost of starting a wedding venue can vary widely depending on location, venue size, and the extent of initial renovations required. Initial expenses often include purchasing or leasing property, renovation and decoration costs, obtaining permits and licenses, and insurance fees.

Some investments may involve purchasing furniture and equipment for the venue, and marketing.

How to Fund Your Wedding Venue Start-up?

To fund your wedding venue business, consider several options. You could use personal savings or obtain a small business loan from a bank. You can also consider seeking investors who are interested in your business concept and can provide additional capital.

Explore partnerships with other businesses in the wedding industry that could benefit from your venue and might be interested in contributing financially.

How to Make People Aware of Your Wedding Venue?

To make people aware of your wedding venue, implement a multi-channel marketing strategy. Start with creating a professional website showcasing your venue with high-quality photos and virtual tours. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to reach potential clients and engage with them by posting regular updates, events, and promotions.

Networking with wedding planners, caterers, and other vendors in the industry can lead to referrals.

About the Author

how to start business party planning

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

Upmetrics logo

Reach Your Goals with Accurate Planning

No Risk – Cancel at Any Time – 15 Day Money Back Guarantee

trustpilot reviews

Popular Templates

IMAGES

  1. Start a Party Planning Business on a Budget

    how to start business party planning

  2. How to start a wedding or event planning business in easy steps! This

    how to start business party planning

  3. How to Start a Party Planning Business from Home

    how to start business party planning

  4. Party Planning Business

    how to start business party planning

  5. Thinkins about starting a party planning business? Check out these tips

    how to start business party planning

  6. Starting an Event Planning Business: 6 Simple Steps

    how to start business party planning

VIDEO

  1. Type of business plan discussion🔥| How to Start New business in 2024@RupaOdiaKahani

  2. Business Plan Presentation

  3. How to can I make business planning easier?

  4. Most Successful Business Ideas|How to start business in wacha farming in Pakistan|Small Business Tip

  5. Job करे या Business ?

  6. business plan

COMMENTS

  1. How to Start a Profitable Party Planner Business [11 Steps]

    1. Perform market analysis. 2. Draft a party planner business plan. 3. Develop a party planner brand. 4. Formalize your business registration. 5. Acquire necessary licenses and permits for party planner. 6. Open a business bank account and secure funding as needed. 7. Set pricing for party planner services. 8.

  2. How to create a party planning business plan

    How to create a party planning business plan Nirit Braun Sep 12, 2023 6 min read When you're kicking off your own party planning business, having a rock-solid business plan is like throwing the perfect event—it's essential.

  3. How to Start a Party Planning Business (with Pictures)

    Part 1 Starting Out Download Article 1 Choose a name for your business. Pick an unambiguous name that will tell potential clients exactly what your company does. It could be something as simple as " [City Name] Formal Event Planners." Try to find a name with a simple available web address.

  4. Your Step-by-Step Guide to Starting an Event Planning Service

    Event design and team-building for project management. Finding the appropriate site for the event. Creating event budgets and running fundraisers if necessary. Arranging for decor, entertainment...

  5. How to Start a Party Planning Business with Little to No Money

    4 min read How to Start a Party Planning Business with Little to No Money by Eventbrite Jul 23 2019 Guide You envision a Gatsby-worthy celebration, a bash guests will be talking (and Instagramming) about for weeks. There will be plenty of cocktails, mocktails, sequins, and glitter. But there's one little problem.

  6. How To Start a Party Planning Business in 12 Steps

    1. Choose Your Niche The first step is to decide what kind of parties you want to specialize in. This is also called finding your niche. Think about the types of events that interest you and the ones you have experience with - this will help narrow your focus so that you can build a successful business.

  7. How To Write A Party Planner Business Plan + Template

    Start with a one-line description of your party planner company Provide a short summary of the key points in each section of your business plan, which includes information about your company's management team, industry analysis, competitive analysis, and financial forecast among others. Company Description

  8. How to Start a Party Planning Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

    1. Conduct Party Planning Market Research Market research is important for an event planner hoping to craft a successful business plan. As a new event planning company, you should know about your target market, local market saturation, trending event planning services in the event planning industry, and more. Source

  9. How to start a party planning business

    Jeremy Greenbaum Aug 7, 2023 7 min read If you have a passion for organizing events, love bringing people together and enjoy creating memorable experiences, starting a party planning business can be a rewarding and exciting venture.

  10. How to Start a Party Planning Business

    In 2022, the US party and event planning service market bounced back valiantly, boasting a size of $3.2 billion. Following a few challenging years with an annualized dip of -9.1% from 2016 to 2021, the industry regained momentum with a growth of 4% by the start of 2022, making it again one of the top service business ideas for aspiring entrepreneurs.

  11. Learn How To Start A Party Planning Business Successfully

    3. Determine Your Party Planning Business Model. There are several possible types of business models for a party planning business including: Offering party planning services as an independent business owner. Working as a party planner for an established event planning company. Starting your own party planning business using a franchise model

  12. How to Start a Party Planning Business

    To start a party planning business, you will need some essential equipment. You'll need some basic office supplies, including a computer, pens, paper, and folders. You may also need office furniture such as a desk or table, chairs, a printer, a fax machine, and a phone to communicate with potential clients.

  13. How to start an event planning business

    Step 3: Write a business plan. Writing a business plan is the next step to start a party planning business. Your business plan is a detailed guide outlining your business structure, what it offers, how it operates, its long- and short-term goals, and some crucial financial information. Your business plan will not only help your business grow ...

  14. How To Start a Party Planning Business

    For example, you can start a party planning business with just the basics like online invitations, catering from a restaurant like Chipotle, and getting decorations from a party store. Learn the basics and grow from there. Party Planning Expenses and Pricing Models

  15. How to start a party and event planning business

    Case Study: Above & Beyond Solutions Define your event planning business idea Conduct market research Come up with an event company name Branding Develop your business plan Come up with a pricing strategy Understand the requirements Start promoting your event planning start-up Find suppliers and build contacts How has COVID-19 affected the sector?

  16. 6 To-Dos Before Starting an Event Planning Business

    Pro tip:Don't stress about the name of your event planning business. At the end of the day, the name of your business doesn't matter " as long as you produce truly memorable events. However, a catchy event business name idea might stick in someone's brain better during an elevator pitch. 5. Do your market research.

  17. How to Start a Party Planner Home Business

    Create your contracts. Consider having a lawyer to help you to make sure you cover every possible legal ramification. Obtain the needed business license and liability insurance. Create your marketing plan and promotional materials, such as business cards, brochures, and a website. Determine your ideal market and how you'll reach it to get clients.

  18. How to start an event planning business in 8 steps

    Decorate the space. Oversee the caterers and bar staff. Supervise the event. If you want to start an event planning company, it might be smart to test out a job or three before making the dive. To begin, think about signing up as a personal assistant or apprentice for an experienced party planner.

  19. How To Start A Party Planning Business

    Create Your Event Planning Business Plan. The next step is to create your event planning business plan for your event planning company. This will be a detailed document that outlines your business goals, strategies, and tactics. Your business plan should also include a marketing plan, as well as a financial forecast.

  20. Starting Your Party and Event Planning Business

    Desygner Event Planning Party & Event Planning Get Your Party & Event Planning Business Essentials Today! Foster growth with 250+ time-saving, business-specific templates. Swift designs, easy tools, all in one place. Try it for FREE! 29 January, 2024 Desygner Team Business Starting Your Party and Event Planning Business

  21. How To Start A Party Planning Business From Home

    1.Make a list of suppliers and vendors. Include at least two vendors for each thing you might need. It will depend on the types of parties you're planning, but your list might include things like live music, florists, clowns, magicians, venues, and caterers. 2.

  22. All You Need to Know About How to Start Event Planning Business

    Step-by-Step Guide to Start Your Event Planning Services. Here is how you can set up a successful event-planning business. 1. Build a Solid Business Plan. No business ever became great without planning. Your skills need a solid foundation to be useful to clients who are willing to invest their trust in you.

  23. 18 Party Business Ideas That You Can Start in 2024

    1. Party Planning Ready for good times? As the pandemic recedes, parties are back, big time. The US party and event planning industry is worth more than $3 billion and growing as more and more people plan the big blow-outs they'd delayed for so long. Graduation parties, weddings, bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthday bashes and much more.

  24. How to Plan a Business Party

    Set a preliminary budget Knowing how much you can spend is the key to planning in advance, especially for events that are best organized a couple of months ahead! Determine how much you can spend on food, room rental, entertainment, invitations and leave some wiggle room for extra costs (it is a preliminary budget overview after all).

  25. How to Start an In-Person Event Planning Business in 2024

    1) Cultivate experience. To succeed in this business, you'll need to have a full portfolio of skills. And, you'll need to be able to convince potential clients that you have the expertise to pull off their event. One way to get both of these birds with one stone is to develop plenty of industry experience on the front end.

  26. How to Start a Wedding Venue Business with 8 Easy Steps?

    Start a wedding venue business with 7 easy steps. Write a wedding venue business plan. Figure out your finances. Zoning laws, licenses, and insurance. Market your offerings. Start and promote your wedding venue. Making sure every aspect of a wedding is perfect from beginning to end is key to creating a memorable day.

  27. How to start a business in 2024

    Step 1: Define (and refine) your business idea. All businesses start with a strong idea. It's this idea that lays the foundation for what your business will become. Start simple: You don't ...