- Create a business plan to set goals and measure progress.
- Research local regulations for licensing, insurance, and health and safety requirements.
- Find the right venue and reliable suppliers for your event business.
- Develop a comprehensive marketing plan by creating an eye-catching website, social media accounts, and print materials.
- Organize your event processes and workflows using project management software, calendar programs, and other tools.
Getting into the event industry is an exciting prospect, allowing you to work with people of all kinds — from celebrities and corporate clients to private individuals organizing weddings or birthdays. It’s a career where no two days are ever the same, and you get to see the fruits of your labor take shape in front of your very eyes! Consider the following five tips to ensure you hit the ground running and lay the foundations for a successful events management business.
1. Create a Business Plan
Having a solid business plan is essential if you want your event planning business to succeed. It should include all the goals you have set and realistic targets by which you can measure progress. Don’t forget to budget for necessary equipment and supplies and marketing costs. Creating a detailed plan of action will ensure that you stay on track and remain focused on achieving your objectives.
2. Fix Business Licensing and Regulations
You’ll need to ensure that you understand all the laws surrounding event-planning businesses in your area. This includes obtaining relevant permits or licenses, ensuring insurance requirements are met and understanding the rules for health and safety. Doing your research at the beginning will save you time and money in the long run, so familiarise yourself with all local regulations before moving forward.
3. Find the Right Venue and Suppliers
One of the key components of successful event planning is finding a great venue. Take some time researching potential locations suited to the type of events you’ll be running, looking at indoor and outdoor spaces depending on what’s required. Finding reliable suppliers who can provide the necessary equipment or services is also important. Building relationships with these suppliers early on will ensure you have access to everything you need when planning an event.
Here are some supplies you shouldn’t ignore:
Audiovisual Equipment
Audiovisual equipment is essential to any event and can range from screens, projectors, and microphones to lighting and sound systems. Look for reliable suppliers that offer quality customer service, excellent pricing, and a wide selection of products.
Furniture and Decorations
No matter what kind of event you’re planning, attractive furniture and decorations are necessary to create the perfect atmosphere. From chairs and tables to linens and centerpieces, select items that will make your guests feel comfortable while also creating an inviting visual experience.
Catering Services and Food Presentation
Carefully consider catering services for your event. Often, people judge the event’s quality based on the food they are served. Search for caterers that specialize in your type of event, and ask them to provide samples of their work so you can get an idea of how your guests will be treated.
Security and Cleaning Services
Safety and security are paramount when planning any type of event, regardless of size or scope. Consider hiring a professional security team and cleaners who can keep the venue clean before and after each event. This will help ensure that everything runs smoothly and without incident.
Linens and Tableware
Table linens and tableware can add a special touch to your event and are essential for professionally presenting food. Consider investing in quality products that won’t need to be replaced often, such as high-quality fabric or silverware. You should also consider professional linen rentals, so you don’t have to worry about purchasing or storing items. This way, you can pick a style that best suits your event and deliver it in time.
Entertainment
Whether it’s live music or a DJ, entertainment is one of the most memorable elements of any event. Research local talent and find someone who can bring your vision to life — this will make your guests feel welcomed and engaged throughout the evening.
Transportation Services
Planning transportation services for your guests is an important part of running a successful event — especially if it’s taking place at an unfamiliar location. Consider individual and group transportation arrangements, such as shuttle buses or limousines.
4. Market Your Event Services
Marketing is a key part of any business; the same applies to event management. Developing a comprehensive marketing plan encompassing online and offline tactics will help you reach your target audience and get the word out about your services. Consider creating an eye-catching website, social media accounts, and print materials such as flyers or postcards. If possible, invest in professional services, such as hiring a graphic designer for logos or brochures to ensure everything looks polished and professional.
5. Organize Your Event Processes and Workflows
You’ll want to ensure that all aspects of planning events are organized so that things run smoothly from start to finish. Use project management software, calendar programs, and other tools to track deadlines, budgets, and client communication. Setting up tasks and checklists will also help you stay on top of the details and ensure that your events go off without a hitch.
To Wrap It Up
Following these five tips for starting an events management business, you’ll have taken significant steps toward success. Creating a thorough business plan, obtaining necessary permits and licenses, finding the right venue and suppliers, and investing in marketing will play a huge role in getting your event planning business off the ground. Finally, ensure that you set up processes to keep everything organized — this will save you time down the line when planning each event.
