Event planning does require experience. There are various types of people who have become event planners. They are• People with experience from backgrounds such as advertising and media

 

People working as event planners in their own businesses

 

Professionally qualified event planners

 

Work at Home:working at home job moms, who organize small events and gradually expand with experience

 

In order to be a successful event planner, you need to posses the following characteristics.

 

Proactive

Problem solver

A good organizer

Assertive

Confidence

A go-getter

Positive

Good written and verbal skills

Creative

Flexible

 

You don’t need a fancy office to start off; you will only need some space for a computer or laptop, internet access and phone access.

 

Tips on being a successful event planner

 

Strike a good relationship with potential clients, service providers and suppliers before offering your services

 

Consider advertising your business

 

Work out the logistics, staff and transport for your business.

 

Focus on the purpose of the event and the resources that will be used.

 

If you have a large event planning business, appoint a committee to handle each client.

 

Confirm with client the budget, venue, number of people attending, the target group, the food, the décor and required equipment.

 

Have a comprehensive check list

 

Be in close contact with the client or a representative

 

Keep the clients opinion and requirements in mind when planning an event.

 

Schedule routine meetings with the clients to confirm and ‘tie up loose ends’ for the event

 

If you are planning a campaign or promotion, have a publicity plan

 

Never let stress get to you

 

Prepare to travel a lot and meet people

 

Obtain all special licenses and permits

 

Re-confirm all details prior to the event

 

As an event planner your will need to look on the seating, décor, food, photographs, parking facilities, entertainment, guest list, audio-visual needs, promotional material, agenda/programs and confirm attendance to make the event a success.

 

Event planners are prone to high levels of stress as the need to make the event a success is priority for the event planner. Good event planners will earn their reputation through their clients and not through advertising.

 

Some of the top event planners named by BiZBash, a trade and corporate event magazine for December 2005/January 2006 are

 

Douglas Blonsky of Central Park Conservency

Shauna Brook of Giorgio Armani

Diane Cremin, independent event planner, World Magazine Congress

Bobette Dudley of Country Music Association

Sharon Enright of Business Journals Inc.

Ed Filipowski and Julie Mannion of KCD

Fawaz Gruosi of De Grisogono

Dexter King of Moet Hennessy

Kim Krikorian of Swarovski North America and

Mary Morrison of Clinton Global Initiative