How To Become a Wedding Planner

by Casey
(Sopchoppy, FL, USA)

Hi, my name is Casey, 19 yrs old, Sopchoppy Fl.

It has always been my life long passion of mine to be a wedding planner, I know it can be hard work but I also know I know I can handle it. I have excellent organization skills as well and an eye for detail. But before I start I wanted some advice from a actual wedding planner.

1) What Degree should I pursue, Business?
2) Where should I live, because of the economy and not to mention where I live there is not any business for this sort of thing. Although I do live in Florida which has some pretty awesome locations around the coast.
3)- How much on average would I make a year with the proper training that is required. I found that on average wedding planners make 40,000-50,000 a year but I'm not in it for the money I'm in it for the passion.

PLEASE RESPOND ASAP it would really help me out a lot.

Thanks
Your friend Casey xoxo-

Our Thoughts

A great wedding planner has very good people skills as well as a head for business. You have to be great at networking and making connections as having a solid list of wedding vendors to call on is essential.

You always have the option of starting your own wedding planning business, or you could opt to work for a company as a planner. Either option can offer a great career path.

A business degree would be a great start for wedding planning and many other careers, so you can’t really go wrong there. Also, some colleges offer degrees in event planning or certificate programs.

While in school try to find jobs in the industry to gain knowledge. Wedding/event planning companies, resorts, hotels, caterers and florists can offer great opportunities to get your feet wet.

Also, spend time online reading websites and trying to help brides. Sharing your knowledge is a great way to gain credibility.

Take a look at some of the questions that brides have submitted on our Ask The Wedding Planner page, and add your comments and ideas.

As far as location goes, Florida offers many great opportunities. Many couples choose Florida for destination weddings, so resort areas would work well. In general being closer to larger cities and resort areas offers the most opportunity.

The amount of money you can make can vary greatly based on location and services offered. The wedding industry continues to grow which is a very optimistic sign.

Good Luck!
Danielle & Stephen