For those who love orchestrating memorable gatherings for family and friends, a career in event planning might be a perfect fit. Event planners help individuals and organizations organize a wide range of events, including weddings, conferences, and parties. Understanding the role and the qualifications needed can help determine if this career path suits you. This article explores what an event planner does, the requirements to become one, and frequently asked questions about the profession.

What Does an Event Planner Do?

An event planner, also known as an event coordinator or event specialist, is a professional responsible for organizing and managing various events such as ceremonies, parties, weddings, corporate events, and fundraisers. They handle budgets, set dates, choose locations, and arrange accommodations and transport for event attendees. The duties of an event planner can vary significantly based on the type and size of the event, as well as their level of education and experience.

Core Responsibilities:

• Meeting with clients to understand their vision and needs for the event.
• Planning the event scope, including costs, timelines, locations, and programs.
• Inspecting venues to ensure they meet client expectations.
• Coordinating with on-site staff to manage event details.
• Monitoring event activities to ensure client and guest satisfaction.
• Reviewing event bills and approving payments.

Requirements to Become an Event Planner

The path to becoming an event planner typically involves a combination of education, training, and certification.

Education

Most event planning positions require at least a bachelor's degree. However, individuals with relevant experience might qualify for entry-level roles without a degree. Preferred fields of study include:

• Business
• Communications
• Public Relations
• Marketing
• Hospitality Management

Training

While formal training programs are beneficial, many event planners receive on-the-job training. This could involve shadowing experienced planners and performing supervised tasks until they gain confidence. Colleges and universities often offer event planning courses that combine lectures with practical experience, typically spanning two to four years.

Certifications

Specializing in specific types of events, such as conventions or weddings, can set an event planner apart. Common certifications include:

• Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP): Offered by the International Live Events Association (ILEA), this certification requires three years of event planning experience and passing an exam.
• Certified Meeting Professional (CMP): Provided by the Events Industry Council (EIC), this certification focuses on meeting management and requires passing a written exam.
• Certified Professional in Catering and Events (CPCE): Offered by the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE), this certification involves completing a training program and passing an exam.
• Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP): Available through the Society of Government Meeting Professionals (SGMP), this certification is designed for those organizing government meetings and requires SGMP membership and one year of hospitality experience.

Essential Skills for Event Planners

Successful event planners need a variety of skills to excel in their roles.

• Attention to Detail: Ensuring all details, like correct name spellings and dietary requirements, are accurate.
• Organizational Skills: Managing numerous tasks, vendors, and to-do lists efficiently.
• Networking: Building a network of industry contacts to create successful events.
• Communication Skills: Clearly understanding client needs and effectively communicating ideas.
• Creativity: Designing unique event themes and solutions within budget constraints.
• Interpersonal Skills: Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients and vendors.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Quickly and effectively addressing unexpected issues.
• Computer Skills: Using event management software and social media for organizing and promoting events.
• Negotiation: Securing favorable contracts with vendors.

How to Become an Event Planner

Following these steps can help you embark on a successful event planning career:

1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree: While not always mandatory, a degree can help secure advanced positions and higher salaries. Relevant fields include marketing, business, and hospitality management.
2. Gain Work Experience: Start with an entry-level position or seek shadowing opportunities to gain hands-on experience.
3. Choose a Specialization: Decide on a focus area like weddings, corporate events, or fundraisers, especially if planning to start your own business.
4. Obtain a Certification: Enhance your credentials with relevant certifications tailored to your event planning specialty.
5. Join a Professional Organization: Networking with industry professionals can lead to more opportunities and resources. Consider organizations like:
   • American Planning Association (APA)
   • International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA)
   • Meeting Professionals International (MPI)
6. Seek Career Advancement: With experience, aim for roles like meeting manager or program coordinator, or consider starting your own event planning business.

The Event Planner's Work Environment

Event planners typically work in offices or from home for administrative tasks such as booking venues and scheduling meetings. Those at large hotels or convention centers might work in shared workspaces, handling guest registrations and phone inquiries. As events approach, planners often work long hours, including evenings and weekends. Large events may require travel to client sites for detailed planning and coordination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average salary for an event planner?

The average salary for an event planner in the U.S. is $50,283 per year, though this can vary based on experience, employer, and location. For current salary information, check the latest data on Indeed.

What is the career outlook for event planners?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects an 18% growth in employment for meeting, convention, and event planners from 2021 to 2031, with approximately 16,600 job openings annually. This growth is driven by increased demand for professional event planning.

Who oversees event planners?

Supervision depends on the employment setting. Event planners at hotels may report to a director of events, while those at event planning firms may report to the business owner. Freelancers and sole proprietors work independently, managing their own schedules and client relationships.

By understanding the comprehensive role of an event planner, aspiring professionals can determine if this dynamic and rewarding career path aligns with their interests and skills.