How to become a wedding planner

Although not necessary, obtaining an associate or bachelor's degree in a related field, such as marketing, public relations, business management, communications, or hospitality management can really help.

Certifications can be attained through various organizations, including the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC) and the Association for Certified Professional Wedding Consultants (ACPWC). The coursework will vary depending on which organization you choose, but subjects include etiquette, event logistics, vendor contracting, sales and marketing, and legal matters.

However, getting certified is not going to help as much as actually putting in the time interning for a real wedding planning company (unpaid, if necessary). The practical knowledge you will gain when you’re working on real weddings, with real brides, coordinating real vendors, keeping paperwork straight, and executing events week after week cannot be taught in the classroom or on the Internet.

So the first thing you need is experience - the question becomes how do you get that experience? Get the word out about your services and attract a client base by making business cards, spreading the word to your friends, posting ads online, making a website, and reaching out to old contacts. Start planning events (for free) for friends and family. Make sure they understand that you’re treating them as real clients and may need them for genuine referrals. Take many pictures and make your website an amazing marketing tool.

Anything that gives you experience building events from scratch and learning client management will give you a leg up. Even applying for entry-level positions at event planning firms and public relations firms known for their events is an excellent idea.