5 Steps to Becoming a Wedding Planner
Step 1: Get formal training
In order to learn the intricacies of wedding planning, professionals can complete a diploma program. During their time in these programs, students learn about contract negotiations, vendor relations, budget management, marketing strategies, and bridal registries. In addition, students learn about the different kinds of wedding ceremonies, attire, and stationary, as well as etiquette at these events.
Step 2: Obtain hands-on experience
While completing a diploma program in wedding planning can familiarize students with the fundamentals they need to enter the field, hands-on experience is required to put those concepts into daily practice. Hopeful wedding planners can get this experience by participating in an internship at an event planning agency, and by helping people they know plan their weddings.
Step 3: Choose a niche
Choosing a niche can help professionals stand out and increase their expertise in a specific area. Some niches professionals can pursue include destination, same-sex, and day-of wedding planning.
Step 4: Find a mentor
People who are new to the business can learn the ropes by partnering with someone who has experience. Finding a seasoned mentor can help wedding planners see the day-to-day realities of the job, which is especially helpful if they want to start their own company.
Step 5: Earn a professional certification
Although wedding planners do not need a certification in order to do business, these credentials can be useful for standing out in the marketplace. The American Association of Certified Wedding Planners offers a certification that can be earned online or in-house. In order to earn this designation, professionals take courses in vendor relations, sales, workflow, and budgeting.
FAQ on Earning Your Wedding Planner Certification
Many entry-level insurance agents learn the duties of the job by working alongside more experienced agents. Following are some of the most frequently asked questions by new and aspiring insurance agents:
Wedding Planner Salary & Job Growth
Wedding planning can be a rewarding career, but before people say "I do" to the field, they need to know that they will have solid job opportunities. This section discusses the job market for wedding planners, as well as the potential earnings.
According to PayScale the annual median income of wedding planners is $40,343, with the lowest ten percent of earners making about $24,000 and the highest bracket of earners making at least $74,000. The site also outlines how much these workers make at different stages of their careers, as listed below:
| Experience Level | Median Income |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (0 to 5 years) | $40,000 |
| Mid-career (5 to 10 years) | $49,000 |
| Experienced (10 to 20 years) | $50,000 |
There are several factors that can influence how much wedding planners make, according to Planner's Lounge. Some of these variables include years of experience, services offered, and the location of the business.
Although the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not compile data on the job outlook for wedding planners specifically, the agency does predict that there will be an 11 percent increase in jobs for all meeting, convention, and event planners between 2016 and 2026—which amounts to 12,700 new jobs. The number of jobs created in this sector is largely dependent on what's going on in the economy at any given time.
Finding a Wedding Planner Program
Just as it's important for people to choose the right person to tie the knot with, it's important for wedding planners to make the right choice when it comes to selecting an education program. This section provides information on how prospective wedding planners can pick the right school.
Some of the factors to consider when looking for a program include the tuition cost, how courses are delivered, and how long to complete. In addition, future wedding planners may be interested in programs that allow them to earn professional certifications.
Professional Wedding Planner Associations & Groups
The wedding business is all about making connections, so it's important for people in this field to participate in activities that will help them network. The following are some of the professional associations that wedding planners can join to make these vital connections.
Insurance agents should consider membership or attending the national conferences of one or more of the following organizations:
American Association of Certified Wedding PlannersMembership benefits include networking events, job placement assistance, mentorship opportunities, access to a quarterly newsletter, and insurance. The association also provides certifications.
Association of Bridal ConsultantsOffers education courses for wedding planners.
Association of Certified Professional Wedding ConsultantsFor over 25 years, this association has promoted high standards and professionalism among wedding consultants. To that end, the organization offers a professional certification and education events to help people in the field keep their skills sharp.
Association of Bridal ConsultantsMembers can earn certifications, participate in professional development seminars and workshops, receive job placement assistance, and attend an annual conference to connect with peers. In addition, the organization offers a referral service, media relations assistance, and a magazine.
Wedding International Professionals AssociationBenefits for joining this organization include education programs, membership meetings, and industry resources. The association has chapters in the San Francisco Bay Area, Utah, Chicago, Atlanta, Las Vegas, New Orleans, and Philadelphia.
National Association of Wedding ProfessionalsAssociation that offers resources for wedding professionals, including individual and group insurance.
National Association of Event PlannersThis group is dedicated to promoting the success of event planners and wedding coordinators. Provides education and resources to its members.
International Association of Professional Wedding PlannersMember benefits include a newsletter that offers practical advice to professionals, a listing in the association's directory, and access to certifications. In addition, the organization provides discounts for books, restaurants, movie tickets, computers, flowers, and cell phones.
Hawaii Island Wedding AssociationHawaii-based wedding planners can connect with each other at networking events, participate in a members-only Facebook group, and receive a listing in the association's directory.
Resources for Wedding Planners
In order to keep an edge in the business, it's important for wedding planners to always learn about trends in the industry. To help professionals keep their skills sharp, they can use resources like the ones listed below.
