how to start a business in wedding planning

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How to Start a Wedding Planning Business: A Step-By-Step Guide

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If you love love and have stellar organizational skills, you may have considered starting a business in the wedding industry. When it comes to how to start a wedding planning business, it pays to keep calm and carry on. In fact, these very qualities have helped generate a growing income stream for Eileen Kaden Dean, owner of a successful wedding planning business in the New York City and New Jersey area.

“To be successful in this business, you have to stay calm and realize that a wedding emergency isn't your emergency. You can’t make the stress about you because it’s not your day,” says Kaden Dean, owner of An Affair to Remember and a go-to wedding planner.

Kaden Dean, who opened her company more than a decade ago, is among the many small business owners who make up the nearly $60 billion wedding services industry in the U.S. The lucrative industry covers an array of wedding service providers, including wedding venues, apparel retailers, florists, photographers, and wedding planners, according to market research firm IBISWorld.

The average wedding in the U.S. cost over $44,000 in 2018, according to Brides.com. Wedding costs vary greatly depending on where you live and your budget, but Manhattan is the most expensive place to get married, with the average couple spending a whopping $96,910 according to The Knot.

Although websites like The Knot and WeddingWire make it easier for couples to plan their big day themselves, many still turn to professionals like Kaden Dean. An Affair to Remember helps plan the wedding, deals with vendors, and coordinates the chain of events at the wedding and reception to make sure the day goes off without a hitch. In a nutshell, wedding planners are in the business of creating happiness and keeping everything organized, so the couple doesn’t have to worry about all the little (and big) things, says Kaden Dean.

If you're wondering how to start a wedding planning business, know that there are many moving parts, from picking out a bridal dress and venue to choosing invitations, to hiring a band or DJ, to selecting a menu. And the list goes on. Even small weddings—in vogue right now—aren't as simple to plan as you might think.

“There’s a need for wedding planners as couples are busy doing other things, like looking to buy a house and working long hours in their careers. Having someone to manage things is attractive, and this way couples can enjoy themselves and be present on their wedding day,” says Kaden Dean.

How to start a wedding planning business in 7 steps

There are a ton of different ways you can learn how to start a wedding planning business, but we'll give you a few steps to help you get your business started.

Step 1: Choose the type of wedding business you want to start and a name

Before you can do much else, you need to decide what kind of services you want your wedding planning business to offer. Wedding planners can offer all types of different services, and you should pick which ones you'll offer before you get to the nitty-gritty of planning your business and setting it up. You should also choose a business name during this step, and check with your state's Secretary of State resources to make sure that the name you want is available. You can usually do this using an online database on their website.

Kaden Dean started her wedding planning business out of a bridal dress store in New Jersey and expanded it from there. Her business offers everything from the full package to smaller day-of planning.

Although her clientele is in the greater New York area, Kaden Dean recognizes that not all couples can afford to spend upward of $50,000 on their weddings, which is part of the reason she offers several packages. Deciding what types of services and packages your own wedding planning business will offer will be important as you plan the business, market your services, and meet with potential clients.

For context, An Affair to Remember offers three pricing packages:

1. Full planning

For this most expensive option, Kaden Dean will plan the entire event from soup to nuts. This includes helping couples find the perfect venue, lining up all the vendors, helping choose invitations and centerpieces, and just about everything else. “Sometimes I even help pick the colors of the ties.”

The cost: about $5,000 and up.

2. Day of the wedding

This least expensive option is ideal for couples who want to do the planning themselves, but need some organizational help on the day of the wedding. For a typical wedding where Kaden Dean is hired for the day only, she creates a minute-to-minute timeline of when events will happen, like the hour the flowers will be delivered to the site and the exact time when the bridesmaids will arrive. On the big day, Kaden Dean is there to ensure that all goes according to plan.

She also handles any snafus. “One time a couple in the wedding party left a diaper bag in a taxi with their passports in it.” She went to work and tracked down the diaper bag, so that the couple could participate in the wedding stress-free. An hour later, the bag arrived at the venue.

The cost: about $1,750 to $2,250. The exact pricing depends on the amount of time Kaden Dean puts in, the number of assistants hired, and so on.

3. Day of “plus”

This is An Affair to Remember’s most popular offering. Couples hiring Kaden Dean for this package will plan their own weddings but rely on her to handle events on the wedding day, as well as any last-minute planning issues. “I take everything they have, shake it out, and see what pockets are missing to make sure everything is cohesive.” This package usually entails five hours of consultation time, 12 hours on the day of the wedding, one hour for the rehearsal, and 15 hours of virtual legwork to put all the ducks in a row.

The cost: about $2,500 to $3,000.

How much do you need?

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We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

Step 2: Choose a business entity

The next step in starting a wedding planning business is deciding how you'll structure your business for legal and tax purposes. You'll likely want to choose a business entity that protects you personally from any legal ramifications your wedding planning business might face. A great option for this would be to choose a limited liability company (LLC) as your business entity. An LLC is a registered business in which owners are not personally liable for the business's debts or obligations. You might also choose a limited liability partnership if you want to have a business partner but the protections an LLC can offer you. Once you choose a business entity you can move on to step 3 which is writing your business plan.

You'll also want to register the business with the state once you have the entity and name decided on. Now would be a great time to consult a business attorney familiar with your type of business who can help you make sure everything is up to par and that you aren't missing any steps. This person can also help you choose which business entity is best for your wedding planning business.

Step 3: Write a detailed business plan

If you're starting a wedding planning business, hopefully, you're already a good planner and this step should come naturally to you. You'll need to write a business plan before you can get your business up and running. You can use a business plan template or business plan software to make the process easier, but there are some specific things you should be sure to include in it, no matter how you write it.

You should include a summary of your business in the plan as well as a market analysis, a detailed list of the products and services you'll offer, your marketing and sales plan, your financial plan and projections, and more. Think of your business plan for a roadmap that will lead you through the early stages of building your business and making it profitable.

Your business plan should also include some of the vendors and any other businesses you plan on working with. During the first year of starting her business, Kaden Dean focused on developing such relationships. “It was a challenging first year, but I spent the time introducing myself to the local wedding vendors so I could find people to recommend and work with. I set the groundwork for my business and established myself.”

An Affair to Remember’s start-up costs the first year maxed out at $10,000, including the rent and furniture for the small space in the bridal shop, along with signage, business cards and brochures, a website, and advertising on WeddingWire. Kaden Dean also had to pay to attend bridal shows, hire an assistant to help her track advertising inquiries, and cover her childcare costs. The costs Kaden Dean had are the kind you should plan to face and include in the financial section of your business plan.

Step 4: Get an EIN

If you plan to hire employees to help run your wedding planning business, you'll need to obtain an EIN, also known as an employer identification number. However, even if your business is a one-person show at the moment, you'll likely want to get an employer identification number for your business to make things easier on yourself down the line. The good news is that it's fairly easy to apply for an employer identification number and you can apply online through the IRS' website and get one in a matter of minutes.

An EIN comes with a number of benefits and can be extremely helpful for your business. It can help you when it comes time to file your business taxes, get a business credit card, open a business bank account, or any other number of business necessities.

Step 5: Get a business bank account and business credit card

Now that you have an EIN, you'll use this number when applying to open a business checking account and business credit card . This next step of starting a wedding planning business is crucial, as you'll want to keep your business finances separate from your personal finances. When you're still working on setting up your wedding planning business maybe you'll be working out of your house as a home-based business or maybe you'll have a small storefront. Either way, you'll probably want to spend on some decor, or at least on some marketing products, and you'll likely want a credit card to use for that.

Keeping the business finances completely separate from your personal finances will be huge when it comes time to file your taxes and it will help you boost your business credit score as well.

Step 6: Get any funding you need

The next step in starting a wedding planning business? Funding your new venture. The startup costs associated with opening a wedding planning business don't have to be too high, especially if you're working out of your home or another business's space. However, you will still have some upfront expenses you may not have the savings to cover. In that case, this is the time when you might need to work on getting a business loan or other funding option.

And because you have a great business plan already, you can use that to show potential investors or lenders that you have a well thought out business and a plan for turning a profit quickly. Of course, getting a loan as a new business isn't always easy. If you're finding your options to be limited, you might turn to a 0% introductory APR business credit card as an interest-free loan of sorts. With this type of credit card, you won't pay any interest on the balance you carry over for the length of the introductory offer (this will depend on the card, but at most will be 12 months). Just make sure you have a plan to pay off your balance by the end of this intro period, when a variable APR will set in, or this won't be the most effective funding tool.

Step 7: Market your services and start doing business

Once your wedding planning business is up and running and have the services you're offering laid out, you can start marketing them and hopefully bringing on new business. Consider marketing at trade shows and with any bridal boutiques in your area, or forge relationships with wedding venues to find clients. Once you get your first client, you're off to the races and can consider yourself fully in business.

The brides and grooms you work with will be grateful for your services and you can help them make their special day as stress-free as possible.

"Hiring a planner is so important to your big day," says Kaden Dean. The last thing a bride needs is for someone else to show up to handle the details: “They trust me. When you hire me, you get me. I’ve never missed a wedding.”

And keep in mind, happy customers can provide referrals and word-of-mouth marketing that can give you business the boost it needs to take off.

Start Your Dream Business

The bottom line

If you want to survive and thrive in the wedding planning business, you’ve got to put on a happy face and mean it—all the time. Also, you’ve got to be nice—all the time, says Kaden Dean.

It might seem like a simple recipe for success, but if you do a great job and you’re happy and people know it, the referrals will flow and you’ll stay busy, she says.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

On a similar note...

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How to Start a Wedding Planning Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   February 22, 2024

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The global wedding planning business is constantly growing. With an evaluation of $160.5 billion in 2020 and a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8% from 2021 to 2030, now is a great time to get started. The wedding service market could reach $414.2 billion by 2030 at this estimation.

With so many engaged couples looking to tie the knot in style, the demand for professional wedding planners who can turn dreams into reality is booming. But the rewards of launching a wedding planning business go far beyond the financial. Helping create once-in-a-lifetime memories for clients can be incredibly fulfilling.

Through this guide, we’ll explain how to start a wedding planning business. Topics include market research, competitive analysis, registering an EIN, opening a business bank account, and more. Here’s everything you need to know to become a successful wedding planner.

1. Conduct Wedding Planning Market Research

Market research is essential to building a successful wedding planner business plan. To become a wedding planner you need insight on your target market, local market saturation, trends in wedding venues and services, and more.

Some details you’ll learn through wedding planning services market research include:

• While weddings occur year-round, late spring and summer are peak seasons.
• Saturday is the most popular day, accounting for most weddings.
• Most events kick off either late afternoon or early evening.
• The majority of couples have a 12 to 14-month engagement.
• While the industry remains female-dominated, more men are entering the field.
• Offering foreign language services can be a competitive advantage.
• The typical planner handles 20 to 40 weddings per year and earns around $3,000 per wedding.
• The most successful ventures expand into additional wedding services like catering and rentals.

Despite the rise of wedding-planning apps and websites, couples value human creativity, knowledge, and support in planning their big day. For wedding planners who stay organized, develop strong vendor relationships, and provide top-notch customer service, the opportunities are endless.

2. Analyze the Competition

To succeed in the wedding planning industry, you must closely analyze your competition. Examine both local brick-and-mortar planners and those with an online presence in your region. Competitive analysis provides you with details on other successful wedding planners in your area. Learn more about competitors in the following ways.

• Research planners that seem to dominate the local market.
• Review their websites and social media presence.
• Gauge strengths like years in business, reviews and ratings, types of packages offered, and pricing structure.
• Search online directories and platforms like The Knot , WeddingWire , and Zola to analyze customer reviews and feedback for competitors.
• Look for common complaints you could improve upon or services not being offered that present an opportunity.
• Evaluate competitors’ digital marketing strategies.
• Research their social media engagement levels and branding across platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
• Conduct anonymous consultations as a “bride-to-be” to evaluate firsthand their processes, pricing, packages, and customer service experience.

Gauging the competition from all angles will identify service gaps, opportunities to differentiate, and areas where you can gain a competitive advantage in the local wedding market with the right positioning and offerings. Ongoing competitor analysis is key.

3. Costs to Start a Wedding Planning Business

Starting a full wedding planning business requires an investment. From startup costs to ongoing expenses, event planning requires tools, resources, venue connections, and more. Let’s break down costs further.

Start-up Costs

When starting a wedding planning company, you’ll need to budget for various one-time start-up costs. These include:

• Licensing and Permits – Obtaining a business license and permits can cost $50-$500 depending on your state and municipality.
• Business Registration Fees – Expect registration fees of $100-$800 to establish your business entity (LLC, S-corp, etc.).
• Insurance – Liability insurance will likely run $500-$2,000 annually depending on your location and coverage levels.
• Office Supplies – Budget $1,000-$5,000 upfront for basic office furniture, computers, printers, software, phones, and supplies.
• Website Development – Having a professional wedding planning website designed typically costs $2,000-$5,000.
• Branding – Logo design, branding assets, and branded templates can cost $1,000-$3,000.
• Marketing Collateral – Printing business cards, flyers, brochures, etc. will cost around $500-$2,000 to start.
• Training & Education – Wedding planner certification courses range from $400-$1000.

Ongoing Costs

Once up and running, wedding planners also face ongoing operating expenses, including:

• Rent – Leasing a home office or commercial space costs $400-$1,500 monthly. For a more visible location, expect closer to $2,500-$5,000 per month.
• Utilities – Gas, electricity, internet, etc can run $200-$500 monthly for a small office.
• Phone & Internet – Basic business phone and internet will cost approximately $150 per month.
• Association Fees – Joining a local or national wedding association provides referrals and credibility for $200-$500 annually.
• Software Subscriptions – CRM, invoicing, project management, and email marketing software will cost $100-$300 monthly.
• Insurance – General business liability insurance ranges from $30-$150 per month.
• Advertising – Paid ads and sponsored posts on wedding platforms will run $500-$2,000+ monthly.
• Credit Card Processing Fees – Transaction fees of 2-4% will tally $100+ every month.
• Continuing Education – Ongoing training courses and conferences average $500-$2,000 annually.
• Taxes & Accounting – Expect to spend $300-$1,000 monthly on bookkeeping, payroll services, quarterly taxes, and annual accounting.

Careful planning and realistic budgeting for both start-up and ongoing costs are imperative to launch and sustain a successful wedding planning venture long-term. Adjust estimates to suit your specific business model and location.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

When starting a wedding planning company, the legal structure you choose is an important decision. The four main options—sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, and corporation—each have pros and cons to weigh.

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is the simplest, with pass-through taxation. However, the owner is personally liable for debts and lawsuits. This substantial risk makes a sole proprietorship ill-advised for wedding planners.

Partnership

Forming a general partnership allows multiple owners to share control. However each partner is also personally liable for the actions of the other, and partnerships can be complex to establish and dissolve.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company (LLC) provides personal liability protection like a corporation without double taxation. Profits and losses pass through to the owners’ tax returns.

LLCs also allow tremendous flexibility. Wedding planners can start as sole owners and easily add members later. Overall, an LLC offers the best pass-through taxation benefits and liability protections for this industry.

Corporation

C-corporations limit owner liability but have complex regulations, including double taxation of profits. An S-corporation offers pass-through taxation but limits ownership to 100 shareholders. Unless wedding planners plan to raise funding and issue stock down the road, an LLC remains preferable over incorporating.

5. Register Your Business For Taxes

Once you form your wedding planning LLC, the next vital legal step is obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.

An EIN acts like a social security number for your business. It uniquely identifies your company for tax and reporting purposes.

While sole proprietors can use their SSNs, having an EIN is crucial for liability protection with an LLC. It also allows you to easily open business bank accounts and apply for any required licenses and permits.

The good news is applying for an EIN is free and fast directly through the IRS website.

Simply go to IRS.gov and navigate to the EIN Assistant. Answer a few questions about your LLC and owners.

The site will then provide your EIN immediately. The whole process typically takes under 10 minutes.

Just be sure to have your LLC documentation handy. The IRS will ask for your official name, address, and filing date.

You’ll also need to provide owner information, including legal name, SSN, and address. For multiple-member LLCs, list the primary owner first.

Once you have your EIN, submit it when applying for any business licenses, permits, bank accounts, and insurance plans required in your state and county.

You’ll also need to set up tax accounts with state agencies to collect and remit any sales tax on your services. Registering for sales tax certificates is typically done through your state revenue or taxation department website and incurs minimal fees.

6. Setup Your Accounting

As a busy wedding planner, it can be tempting to put bookkeeping and accounting on the back burner. But meticulous financial records are crucial right from the start.

Accounting Software

After each event or consultation, log all income and expenses – from venue deposits to flower arrangements. Using accounting software like QuickBooks can automate the categorization and tracking as transactions flow through your business bank account and credit card.

Hire an Accountant

Consider partnering with an accountant from the outset. For roughly $300-$500 per month, an accountant can handle tasks like monthly reconciliation and bookkeeping, freeing you to focus on events.

At tax time, your accountant can prepare and file returns, guide tax planning, and assist if you ever face an audit. Expect fees of $1,000 or more for annual tax prep. But armed with meticulous records, your likelihood of audit decreases.

Open a Business Bank Account

To simplify accounting, establish a dedicated business bank account and credit card. Reserve your finances for non-business spending. Cleanly separating expenses avoids commingling funds and eases reporting.

Apply for a Business Credit Card

Apply for a business credit card to keep wedding-related spending separate. Issuers will request your EIN and business documentation to determine approval and credit limits.

7. Obtain Licenses and Permits

Starting a wedding planning company involves more than just forming a legal business entity. Check the U.S. Small Business Administration for federal licensure. The SBA also offers insight into state and city permits through its local search tool.

First, secure a general business license from your city or county. These licenses allow businesses to operate within a jurisdiction and levy annual fees based on company size and industry. In some areas, a home occupation permit may be required if you’ll work from home. Expect to pay $50-$500 for these basic permissions.

Next, many regions mandate that wedding planners carry a surety bond of $5,000-$25,000 or more to protect clients financially in case of disputes or failure to provide services. Shop specialty brokers to find an affordable premium.

If you plan to sell any food or beverages during planning sessions or at events, a food handling permit is also often compulsory. These ensure proper food safety precautions are implemented. County health departments oversee the application process.

States with sales tax will require wedding planners to complete tax registration. You’ll need to charge applicable state and local sales tax on your services and remit collected amounts periodically. Fines can result in non-compliance.

Some regions mandate that wedding pros carry commercial auto insurance if they utilize vehicles for business purposes. Make sure your policy covers any accidents that occur during client meetings or events.

8. Get Business Insurance

Even with an LLC, wedding planners face substantial risks from disputes, accidents, natural disasters, and other losses. Having proper insurance coverage is crucial to protect your company should the unthinkable occur.

For example, imagine a reception venue unexpectedly closes before a booked event. Without event cancellation insurance, you could face six-figure out-of-pocket costs. Or what if a client slips and falls at a wedding, threatening to sue you? Liability insurance can be a lifesaver.

Other risks like lost deposits, vendor no-shows, contract disputes, and damaged equipment can also spell financial disaster without insurance to reimburse you.

To get covered, start by speaking with business insurance brokers like CoverWallet .

Describe your business model, location, number of events, liability risks, and assets. They will tailor a policy with key protections like general liability, event/weather cancellation, equipment coverage, and more.

9. Create an Office Space

Having a professional office space lends credibility when meeting with clients and provides room to handle the administrative aspects of orchestrating events. But the right option depends on your budget and workflow.

Home Office

A dedicated home office works for sole planners. Expect costs of $100-$500 for basic furniture and upgrades like soundproofing. The ability to deduct mortgage and utility costs helps offset taxes. However, hosting clients in your residence may seem less official.

Coworking Office

Coworking spaces like WeWork offer stylish, modern locales to meet clients starting at $300-$600 monthly. Open layouts facilitate collaborating with other small business owners too. However, you’ll lack private office space and the flexibility of being home.

Retail Office

For planners working closely with retail vendors, securing space in a bridal shop or event venue can provide built-in referrals. Renting a few hundred square feet would run $800-$2,000 monthly. But retail spaces limit flexibility if you change focus.

Commercial Office

Leasing traditional office space in a business complex enables branding your suite as your own. Expect monthly rents of $1,000-$5,000 based on location, size, finishes, and terms. Hiring staff is easier with dedicated space but costs are higher.

10. Source Your Equipment

From decor to technology, wedding planners need certain equipment to successfully coordinate events. Here are the top options to acquire the necessary items for your new company:

For the latest models and reliability, purchase new equipment from retailers like B&H , Amazon Business , and WebstaurantStore . Invest in a fast computer, high-quality printer, long-range walkie-talkies, and wireless microphones to start. Expect costs of $1,500-$5,000 to outfit your office.

Save substantially by buying gently used equipment from other planners or vendors. Check industry forums, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay for reliable deals on printers, lighting, furniture, and AV equipment. Budget $500-$2,000 for essentials.

Rather than buying specialty items like chiavari chairs or tenting, renting allows flexibility. Platforms like RentMyWedding and Rentals Unlimited offer everything from linens to lounge furniture, with free delivery. Pay per rental with no long-term commitment.

Leasing business technology through companies enables access to new equipment annually with maintenance included. While monthly fees add up, you avoid large upfront costs. Use leasing for key tech like computers, printers, and photo booths you want to update regularly.

11. Establish Your Brand Assets

Crafting a strong brand is crucial for wedding pros to stand out in a crowded market. By investing in branded assets upfront, couples instantly recognize your company as professional, polished, and trustworthy.

Get a Business Phone Number

Start with an official business phone line using a service like RingCentral . Choose a custom toll-free or local vanity number clients can easily recall.

Design a Logo

Work with a designer to create a memorable logo that captures your brand identity. Outline fonts, colors, and icons you love. Looka makes custom, affordable logos tailored to your vision.

From your logo, develop cohesive brand assets – fonts, colors, patterns, graphics, and photography styles that reinforce your look across platforms.

Print Business Cards

Print professional business cards, folders, and branded welcome packs from Vistaprint . Hand these out at in-person consultations and include them in client welcome gifts. Carry cards at industry networking events.

If securing office space, install external signage so couples can easily locate their workspace for meetings. Match signage font and colors to your logo.

Buy a Domain Name

Register a domain name that aligns with your brand for a custom email address and website. Check availability by searching Namecheap before settling on the perfect name.

Design a Website

Build a stunning website with your branding on platforms like Wix or hire a Fiverr pro to handle development. Showcase photos, packages, and reviews.

12. Join Associations and Groups

Joining regional organizations and online communities provides invaluable connections in the wedding industry. Surround yourself with fellow pros who graciously share advice and referrals.

Local Associations

Seek out established local associations like the Association of Bridal Consultants that offer training programs and networking. Attend association conferences to gain formal instruction and mingle with experienced planners eager to help newcomers. Regional groups also share job leads and vendor recommendations.

Local Meetups

Attend a local wedding or small business meetups and trade shows to make connections. Use Meetup to find regular gatherings of industry peers in your city. Exchange ideas in person and partner with photographers, caterers, and venues eager to work with up-and-coming planners.

Facebook Groups

Dive into Facebook Groups like the Wedding Planning Support Group . In national online groups, glean advice from thousands of planners across the globe. Post questions and browse extensive idea libraries 24/7. Review how other planners handle challenges.

13. How to Market a Wedding Planning Business

Implementing an ongoing marketing strategy is essential for wedding planners to continually attract new clients. While you’ll rely heavily on referrals at first, also focus on digital and traditional tactics to expand your reach and visibility.

Personal Networking

Leverage your personal and professional network to spread the word that you’ve launched a wedding planning company. Offer discounts to early customers who provide testimonials and referrals. One glowing recommendation on your website or reviews can influence many couples.

Digital Marketing

For digital marketing:

• Run Google Ads campaigns so your services appear at the top when local couples search for wedding planners. Target keywords like “affordable wedding planner [your city].”
• Create Facebook and Instagram ads showcasing your services. Target newly engaged demographics and location. Feature great photos of events you coordinate.
• Start a YouTube channel sharing wedding planning tips and vendor spotlights. Include a strong call-to-action to subscribe and book you.
• Write blog posts about wedding trends and planning advice. Optimize posts for SEO by including relevant keywords couples search for.
• Send email newsletters with wedding inspiration, vendor sales, and promotional offers to stay top of mind. Provide value and specials to subscribers.

Traditional Marketing

For traditional marketing:

• Design professional flyers and menus to display at local bridal shops, florists, venues, etc.
• Partner with venues, photographers, caterers, and bakeries to cross-promote one another. Offer referral fees.
• Sponsor local bridal shows and events related to weddings. Have an eye-catching booth and network.
• Advertise on radio stations and podcasts popular with your target brides. Focus ad copy on the experiences you create.
• For planners with retail space, utilize signage, window displays, and curb appeal to attract foot traffic.

Consistently investing time and budget into marketing expands your visibility and client base. Track results to double down on the most effective tactics over time.

14. Focus on the Customer

Providing an incredible client experience is crucial for wedding planners. Your business depends on referrals and reviews. Just one poor customer service interaction can deter dozens of potential clients. Some ways to improve customer focus as a wedding business include:

• Respond promptly to all inquiries with thoughtful guidance.
• Set clients at ease during the planning process, resolving issues quickly.
• Check in frequently as their big day approaches.
• On the wedding day itself, ensure everything flows seamlessly behind the scenes.
• Greet guests with enthusiasm. Resolve any emergencies discreetly without the couple knowing.
• Post-wedding, follow up to get candid feedback.
• Send anniversary gifts and incentives for reviews. Deliver photos and videos promptly.
• Couples have endless planner options for their most important day.
• For example, notice when a bride seems stressed and provides a shoulder massage.
• Surprise couples with a favorite bottle of champagne.
• Handwrite thoughtful notes demonstrating your care.

With close attention and personal touches, you create delightful experiences and invaluable word-of-mouth referrals. Consistently wowing couples must be a top priority.

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How to Start a Wedding Planning Business

A wedding planning business may help couples with any and every aspect of planning for the wedding. This may include helping pick clothing for all parties, creating thematic decorations and décor, picking a wedding cake, handling photography and video, and more.

You may also be interested in additional side hustle ideas .

Learn how to start your own Wedding Planning Business and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a wedding planning business by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Wedding Planning Business
• Form your Wedding Planning Business into a Legal Entity
• Register your Wedding Planning Business for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Wedding Planning Business
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Wedding Planning Business
• Get Wedding Planning Business Insurance
• Define your Wedding Planning Business Brand
• Create your Wedding Planning Business Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your wedding planning business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Wedding Planning Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your wedding planning business?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a wedding planning business.

One of the most exciting aspects of a wedding planning is that many planners start by working out of their own homes. This effectively sidesteps the need for an expensive monthly office lease, related utilities, and so on. Because of that, most of the costs involved in opening your business involve advertisement. It's important to have a highly professional-looking website, and either hire a professional or design it yourself. It's possible to set up good-looking website using templates you can buy and use for under $1,000. If you have to hire designers or others to help provide content, it may cost between $500 to $5,000 extra, though you can potentially do all (or most) of this yourself. Beyond that, it is worth establishing a social media presence on sites such as Facebook (this is free) and doing traditional advertising (newspapers, radio, and possibly television), which should cost between $1,000 to $5,000 depending on how you advertise and how much you advertise.

What are the ongoing expenses for a wedding planning business?

Another highly attractive feature of being a wedding planner is that there are almost no ongoing expenses. The various costs related to vendors for the wedding are paid for by the couple, and if you are operating out of your home or meeting clients at their own homes, the only real ongoing cost is your advertising. After the initial advertising push, you should probably spend less than $500 on advertisements each month, as your social media advertising and positive word-of-mouth, along with your website, will handle much of this for you.

Who is the target market?

In general, the best customers that wedding planners can have are those who are both flexible and realistic. Sometimes, customers may have their fixed ideas of a “perfect wedding” that do not mesh well with their budget or location. Therefore, customers who are realistic about how far their money can go and flexible enough to listen to alternative suggestions make for the best customers.

How does a wedding planning business make money?

On the most basic level, a wedding planning business makes money by charging money for the planning and execution of the wedding itself. However, there is great flexibility in how you charge customers. Some planners charge a flat fee, whereas others might charge a percentage based on the overall cost of the wedding. You may even simply charge clients by the hour. An additional way to make money is that some wedding planners also negotiate and receive a certain percentage of the amount that clients pay to different vendors (between ten and twenty percent). However, this effectively ends up making the different vendors cost more, so building a fee structure that doesn't seem like it has hidden costs may go over better with your customers.

How much you charge, and how you charge, is usually contingent on how much you have to do. For customers who merely want a consultation to help them with their own plans, charging between $40-$60 per hour is appropriate. For people who have their own wedding somewhat planned but want assistance finalizing the plan, conducting the rehearsal, and coordinating the day of the wedding, you could charge between $600 to $1,800 (variances typically reflect differences in regional economy and level of work involved for you). For a full-service package, in which you plan everything, coordinate with all vendors, develop the theme and décor, and help coordinate the day of the wedding, you may charge between $2,000-$10,000 (variances reflect differences in regional economy and whether the client is involved and helps out with anything).

How much profit can a wedding planning business make?

How much profit you make is mostly a matter of mathematics. For instance, many wedding planners only choose to do “full-service” packages, so you can essentially multiply the cost of that full-service package times the number of weddings you conduct per year. Thus, someone charging $5,000 per wedding and conducting 20 weddings a year could easily crack six figures, though you will likely be making less as you are starting out and establishing your name. Plus, more rural areas or areas with a slower economy will likely necessitate charging closer to the $2,000 for full-service packages.

How can you make your business more profitable?

To make your business more profitable, offer incentives or prizes to people who refer friends to you. Consider sponsoring monthly parties where you talk about how people can have a perfect wedding, and offer them a chance to win a nice door prize for attending. Aside from ideas like these, the best thing you can do is to do the best job possible on the weddings you plan and let positive word of mouth do the rest!

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your wedding planning business is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

In most states, it is necessary to obtain a business license. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits.

For more information about local licenses and permits:

• Check with your town, city or county clerk’s office
• Get assistance from one of the local associations listed in US Small Business Associations directory of local business resources

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Services Contract

Wedding planning businesses should require clients to sign a services agreement before starting a new project. RocketLawyers Make your Free Wedding Planner Agreement clarifies clients expectations and minimizes the risk of legal disputes by setting out payment terms and conditions in advance.  Here is an example service agreement.

Recommended: Rocket Lawyer makes it easy to create a professional service agreement for your wedding planning business when you sign up for their premium membership. For $39.95 per month, members receive access to hundreds of legal agreements and on call attorneys to get complimentary legal advice.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Wedding Planning Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Wedding Planning Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a wedding planning business

The key ways to market and promote have already been mentioned. You should use a combination of a professional-looking website, social media presence, and advertisements via newspapers, radio, and television. Flyers, business cards, and other print advertisements at locations like florists and hotels can also help to catch the eye of couples looking for a planner.

How to keep customers coming back

In addition to using the advertisement methods above, you should run contests via social media where people can win things like dresses and discounts from your affiliated vendors. To add to the impact of such contests, part of the free entry should be customers writing sweet poems or stories about how they met their significant others. People get excited about the prize but quickly come to associate your business as a place that understands and cares about why people fall in love. This helps spread word of your business and its contests via traditional word-of-mouth advertising.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

This business is good for those who thrive on interactions with new people. It is also good for those who grew up playing “matchmaker” and get a thrill out of helping bring two lives together. Much of the planning business is visual, so those with a flair for design and/or a good eye for stylish clothing and skill at creating a unique atmosphere in any room will do very well.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a wedding planning business?

The nature of a wedding planning business is that each day may involve different tasks. Some of those activities, however, include helping the couple set a realistic budget, taking the couple to different places in town that will suit their needs, and creating a detailed plan for pretty much every moment of the wedding. You will also have to call, email, and otherwise coordinate with various bands or DJs, photographers, caterers, florists, and any other vendors the couple may require. This requires a lot of contracts for the couple to sign, so much time will be devoted to walking them through the finer points of the paperwork. You may also help design and distribute wedding invitations and serve as a kind of liaison and supervisor of the various parties during the actual day of the wedding.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful wedding planning business?

Because of the nature of the work, a college degree in fields such as Public Relations or Communications can help you with the coordination of various different entities related to this job. Prior experience as an intern or other kind of worker that helped plan weddings can be invaluable. While there are certifications for things like wedding planning, they offer little to no practical, real-world experience.

What is the growth potential for a wedding planning business?

The growth potential for a wedding planning business is steady, though there can be variances according to region and time of year. Overall, though, about 6,200 weddings happen each day, and many of them are getting married for a second (or even third) time, so the market is steady. Weddings are more common in warmer months (the most popular month for weddings is June), and the costs of the wedding can vary, ranging from an average of just over $15,000 in Utah to just over $31,000 in Manhattan. Those differences can affect how much you get paid and when you are likelier to be busier.

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For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a wedding planning business?

If possible, volunteer or get permission to “shadow” successful wedding planners in other cities in order to figure out how to make your own business highly successful. Try to get to know various vendors, hotel managers, and others you will work with as soon as possible in order to make your future business successful. Make sure that your website has a dedicated place for you to feature customer testimonials about successful weddings you've helped with before.

How and when to build a team

Most wedding planners start out on their own. This makes it easier to create a cohesive vision for weddings and to make sure everybody sticks to a set game plan. However, there will always be more weddings than you can reasonably work, so when you have more interested clients than you have time to serve them, it may be time to hire a partner or a team. While this can make things a little harder to organize, it does give you the flexibility of hiring people that are naturally better at some of the aspects of the job you are weaker at (such as hiring someone who studied graphic design and making sure they are in charge of creating invitations and wedding programs).

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• American Academy of Wedding Professionals
• Association for Wedding Professionals International

Real World Examples

• California-based wedding planning business

Further Reading

• Advice from successful wedding planner
• Wedding Planning Business Plan
• Information on the wedding planning industry

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

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How to start a wedding planning business

February 28, 2022

• Before you say “I do”...
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Did you grow up dreaming of your wedding day? If you’ve had a scrapbook or Pinterest filled with pictures of dresses and floral displays for as long as you can remember, you may be ready to dream beyond your own wedding ceremony and begin a career as a wedding planner.

Luckily, there’s no required training or licensure to become a wedding planner. And getting started on a new career path always takes time and perseverance. However, if you have a passion for helping other couples make their wedding picture-perfect, all you need to get started is a little know-how. This wedding planning business guide gives it to you.

Before you say “I do”…

As any great wedding planner knows, the key to a successful event is making sure you understand the requirements (and expectations) of the job. If you’re thinking of starting your own wedding planning business, you know that the job isn’t all cake tastings and champagne toasts.

If you’re just starting out and don’t have experience in event planning, it may be helpful to get a start working as an assistant to an experienced wedding or event planner. An experienced planner will teach you the lessons they learned early on so you hopefully don’t repeat their same mistakes.

Planning a wedding requires the following traits:

• Great communication skills – Understand the couple’s tastes and preferences, and communicate clearly with your clients, your staff, and your subcontractors.
• Creativity – Everyone wants a unique wedding. Can you come up with a creative, unique solution for each client?
• An eye for detail – A couple is hiring you so they don’t have to worry about the details. It’s important to cross your t’s and dot your i’s. This includes outlining a crisis plan.

When it comes to how to start a wedding planning business, you may need to secure some start-up funding. Even if you have enough cash on-hand to begin marketing and promoting your services, it’s important to begin with a clear, detailed plan so that you know exactly what you hope to accomplish in your first year of business (and beyond).

A strong business plan will help you with everything from pitching yourself to potential clients to taking on a manageable number of ceremonies. It should answer:

What are your goals and vision? – How does your wedding planning business stand out from your competitors? Do you cater to a niche market, offer flat-rate packages, or have a particular design focus that can woo customers?

What steps will you take to achieve your goals? – Do you have potential business partners? Potential customers? How will you market and promote your services?

What is your budget? – How much money do you need to cover your costs until your business becomes profitable? How many ceremonies will you need to plan before your business turns a profit?

How will you structure your business? – Creating a legal business entity like an LLC can help to protect you from some liability. What other steps will you take to legitimize your business and protect yourself from risk?

Having a clear business plan helps you to set achievable goals and take concrete steps towards them.

A website is the first step in your online marketing campaign and will be your digital portfolio. Thankfully, smart website builders such as Wix and Squarespace make it easier than ever to create an attractive site that reflects your style without needing a development background.

The key elements of any good business website are:

Design – A big part of your job as a wedding planner is creating a ceremony to remember. Make sure your website reflects your style.

Your bio – clients want a planner they can relate to as they’re entrusting their big day in your hands. Your bio should reflect your style and personality – include some fun facts to help you stand out.

Portfolio & client reviews – Clients want to be able to imagine their wedding. Consider planning a friend’s wedding, or even staging a mock wedding with a photographer you’d hire for future events. This can help you to convey professionalism and experience as you’re getting started.

Contact information & form – you need a way for prospective clients to easily contact you. Include a phone number and form so people can submit their details. Don’t forget to call prospective clients back as soon as possible – ideally 24-48 hours.

Social proof – Include links to your profiles on industry organizations or websites such as Wedding Wire or The Knot to help potential clients know you’re legitimate. And, if you’ve received any awards or badges, make sure to include those on your website. Additionally, make sure to link to your social profiles.

SEO – Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is how to help your website show up in the search results. The basic setup doesn’t take a marketing degree: simply follow your website builder’s instructions for adding page descriptions, and be sure to include keywords related to your local area so you can show up in local search results.

Once you have a site, start showing it off to your network and updating your social profiles with a link to your website.

Once you land your first gig, it’s important to make sure your business is protected in the event that something goes wrong. As you start your new venture, you’re likely excited, even giddy—but it’s important to come down from cloud nine and assess your risks.

Any time people gather together, there’s the risk that an accident could hurt someone or damage their property. And when it comes to their wedding day, people can become especially litigious. The cost of legal fees alone might burn through your start-up budget.

Most wedding planners can benefit from the following kinds of insurance policies:

General liability insurance provides coverage against client and third-party claims of bodily injury, property damage, personal injury, and advertising injury.

Professional liability insurance , also called errors & omission (E&O) insurance, provides coverage against claims of negligence and errors related to your work.

In addition, make sure you’re working with venues and vendors that carry their own insurance policies.

When you’re just getting started, you may only have a single wedding to plan in the months ahead. It may seem like an annual insurance policy just isn’t worth it or a cost you can spare.

But you don’t have to pay for insurance when you’re not working. That’s why there’s Thimble’s Wedding Planner Insurance . Our fast, flexible policies go by the hour, day, or month. You can take out insurance just for an afternoon of venue tours with your clients, or for an entire wedding weekend.

And while a wedding may take months to plan, you can get insurance in just 60 seconds. All you have to do is enter a few details about your business, and we’ll generate your free quote. Click purchase, and your proof of insurance will arrive in your email inbox right away.

Starting a business can be scary, but with the right steps, you can look forward to a long and happy career as a wedding planner. Remember to:

• Understand the job requirements
• Build your online portfolio (your website)
• Protect yourself from risk with insurance

Pop the champagne—you’re ready to be your own boss!

Written on February 28, 2022

Our editorial content is intended for informational purposes only and is not written by a licensed insurance agent. Terms and conditions for rate and coverage may vary by class of business and state.

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OK – you've made this HUGE decision that you want to start a wedding planning business. But not just ANY kind of wedding planning business. You want to build a business that gets amazing clients, is successful, and allows you to build and grow something that's YOURS.

You want to plan gorgeous weddings, work with incredible clients, get featured in magazines, and spend your days obsessing over linen swatches, pretty flowers, candles, and of course, the logistics that make all the pretty happen.

In this blog post, I've put together my 12+ years of experience in running a profitable, multi six figure, multi-country wedding planning & design business so you can learn how to start a wedding planning business you love quicker, faster, and better.

First, let me say how delighted I am for you. In other words, when I started my wedding planning and design company back in 2007, I had the same feelings you did about creating the life and career I wanted.

I was excited, nervous, energized, and willing to consume any information on starting a wedding planning business.

(Back in 2007, that information was hard to come by. There were not a lot of resources on how to start a wedding planning business. However, you've got a lot of information on hand to guide you.)

I'm going to break down how to start a wedding planning business–but not just any kind of wedding planning business–one that will be profitable and scalable.

Here are the 11 steps you need to take to start and grow your new wedding planning business:

Step 1: Know What Kind Of Wedding Planning Business You Want to Build

Before you do anything, knowing what kind of wedding planning business you want is the first step. I've got an easy exercise for you to figure this out, too.

We call it vision casting.

It's important to know what kind of business you want, which will help you write strategies to make that business come to life.

In addition, we can't know what we're really building until we see the destination we want to arrive at, right?

That's what vision casting is. It's knowing the destination you want to arrive at–the business that you want.

To make this even easier for you, I've recorded an entire podcast episode on how to vision cast for your business. 👇

Episode 42 of my podcast for wedding pros, The Power in Purpose Podcast gives you step-by-step guidance and action on how to start your wedding planning biz with vision casting.

Everyone is building a different kind of business under different circumstances. For instance, you might want to have a career that allows you to raise your family at the same time. Or, you might want to build a million-dollar empire.

This is why it's important to know what kind of business YOU want so that you can reverse engineer the strategies that it will take to get there.

Don't skip this step. And listen to this podcast episode to get started.

Step 2: Write A Business Plan For Your Wedding Planning Business

Yes, I know you wanted to skip this part–biz plans are so 2007, aren't they?

No. They're essential. To build the wedding planning business YOU want (the one you're going to vision cast for!), you have to write a strategy to get there.

That's what a business plan is: an overarching strategy for getting from where you are today to where you want to go. And it cannot be overlooked.

Writing your business plan doesn't have to be challenging or overwhelming. You don't need an MBA or a fancy degree to start a business.

Instead, you just need to discover a problem that needs solving, and then your business becomes the solution.

With that said, I know that writing a business plan isn't the easiest (or sexiest) task.

That's why I've created my Free Business Plan Outline + Guide , a way to jumpstart your efforts and get you to write a plan for your wedding planning business.

Write a wedding planner business plan with this free guidebook and outline. It'll take you from stuck to start. I take all the guesswork out of how to write a business plan and even teach you some strategies. Plus, it's free! That's why I want to make sure you grab it.

Step 3: Know The “Ideal Clients” Your Wedding Planning Business Will Serve

The #1 reason why businesses fail is they don't know who their customers are. They don't really, truly, and personally know their customers. 

Their values.

Their problems.

However, this isn't going to be you; you're here to learn how to start a wedding planning business–and a crucial step is knowing your ideal clients!

Instead, you're going to create a business that fully understands who your ideal clients are so that you can solve their problems quicker, faster, and better than anyone else.

You must get specific about your ideal clients and why they need you to solve their problems. Knowing more about what motivates them, what they value, what challenges they face, and yes, what problems they have means you can position yourself as the solution.

I want to clarify that knowing your ideal clients is more than knowing what kind of car they drive, their favorite color, and their age range. Moreover, those things are essential but only tell you part of the story.

If you want to book high-end clients in the wedding industry, you need to check out The Client Cocktail . In this mini-training, I teach you how to call in dreamy clients and magazine-worthy weddings.

When you start your business, you'll be tempted to serve everyone and anyone. That's one of the biggest mistakes new entrepreneurs make: they reason they'll cast a wide net, increasing their chances of customers. After all, the wider the net, the more you can catch, right?

What ends up happening is you become too watered down, too unspecific, and too generic. However, by appealing to everyone, you appeal to no one because no one can really connect with your company.

They don't look at what you offer, your message, and say, “This is for me.”

Step 4: Create A Wedding Planning Brand That Gets Noticed

There are a lot of wedding planners out there. What makes you different?

One of the cornerstones of marketing is that people buy with their eyes, and your brand–aka the visual manifestation of your company–is what sets you apart.

You need to create a visual brand that gets noticed.

One that makes YOUR ideal client stop in their tracks.

One that makes your perfect client buy with their eye.

Your visual branding helps to accelerate the know/like/trust factor with your customers. The couple who wants to hire someone like you lands on your website or sees some of your marketing, and because of its polished nature and overall experience, they want to know more.

After you've set a vision and written your business plan, don't let it all fall apart by having a bad logo and website.

Your clients will notice immediately that your business doesn't live up to what it offers. And they will click off.

You have a matter of seconds to capture someone's attention (sometimes, it's a fraction of that number!). How will you capture the attention of your ideal clients with your marketing and branding?

Here are some quick resources for you to start creating a kick-ass wedding planning brand from DAY ONE (bc that's how we roll!)

• Showit Website Platform : To create a GORGEOUS website (it's my website platform!)
• Sourced Co : For incredible stock images created JUST for wedding pros. You can find images for marketing and your website, making it easy to start without a portfolio. Use code PLAYBOOK to get a special discount.
• Hautestock : Use code CANDICE for 15% off gorgeous stock images that don't look stock. Firstly, Hautestock's images are great for your website to fill in the gaps where you might not have a portfolio. Secondly, they make perfect social media posts so you can start marketing TODAY – even if you don't have any clients or work!
• Styled Stock : Another fantastic styled stock membership for beautiful stock images that don't look like “stock images.”

Step 5: Work More On Your Wedding Planning Business Than In It

You had the idea to start a wedding planning business because you want to be a wedding planner. However, when you decide to open up your own company, you're a business owner first. Wedding planner, second.

They say that businesses fail not only because they don't know their ideal clients but because the owner of that business doesn't work on their business. 

You toil away at being the best wedding planner, focusing all your time on planning weddings and serving your clients, but what about the business owner side? 

I want you to work more ON your business than IN your business. Consider yourself a business owner above all other roles you might have in your business.

Owning a business is like having a classic car: it needs love, care, and attention. It needs you to tune it, fix what's broken, and invest in its care.

If you're serious about owning a wedding planning business, consider yourself an entrepreneur first and a business owner second.

My advice? Seek education to help you build and grow your wedding planning business from the ground up correctly. Find mentors and business owners who are where you want to be and hire them to help you.

In addition, you should invest in courses , conferences, and other educational avenues to learn all you can and speed up your results.

Always learning, always moving forward. That's my motto.

Step 6: Network With The Right People

The wedding industry is mostly about connections, and some of the most incredible business comes from referrals (if you sign up for The Client Cocktail , you'll know how important this is!).

You have to seek out new connections as much as possible–but not just any old “links”–and focus on the right ones.

As you set out to market your business, you must get in front of the right people. Ideally, the people and companies that are already in front of your ideal clients.

They have the power to refer to you and to help lift your business alongside theirs.

Do you want to know one of the first things I did when I started my business?

I networked my butt off. Networking with the right people was one of the first things I did when I started my business, which paid off. I was armed with my biz plan, a vision for the future, and a nice-looking brand/website. I sought out businesses that were already in front of my ideal clients.

And it paid off in dividends. 

Step 7: Know Your Marketing Message And Market Your Wedding Planning Business As Much As You Can

Marketing is simply sharing your message so that it reaches the right people. What's your message?

Your company's mission, vision, and purpose are vital. They connect you to your customers and ground you when the going gets tough.

You need to have a clear, concise message about what your company does, how life looks for your customers after you do it, and why you do it in the first place.

Step 8: Make Mistakes, Try New Things & Do It Your Way

When you start a business, you follow the same path as those you admire. No doubt you've rapidly followed a bunch of people on the ‘gram who are killing it in their wedding planning biz right now.

And you're probably thinking: I need to do it this way too.

Maybe. Or maybe not. Don't fall into the trap of copying what other folks are doing. That's their business–their vision–not yours.

I want you to feel empowered to do it YOUR way. Sure, you can seek out roadmaps and blueprints on how to build your business, but make sure you adapt what you learn as it fits your unique circumstances.

Don't build someone else's business. Build yours.

If you want to hear some of my epic wedding planning mistakes, check out my tales from the clipboard email series.

Step 9: Give Your Business Time To Grow & Take Root

As a business coach for wedding planners and pros, I've seen biz owners quit just when the going gets going. Owning a wedding planning business is a marathon and not a sprint. It takes time for your efforts to start to take root.

When I started my company, it took me six months to land my first client. Imagine if I had quit five months and two weeks in? 

I want you to know that things take time. Give your business time to take root. It will happen with consistency and perseverance. Don't quit at the first failure. 

Remember, your failures lead you toward your successes.

Patience is necessary for business (just like with most things in life). The strategies you implement today may not show results for 3-6 months. But they will see results if you give them a chance. 

Step 10: Hire A Wedding Planning Mentor And Learn, Learn, Learn

Let me ask you a serious question. Why not hire someone to help you do all the above and teach you the ropes so that you can accelerate your business quicker and faster?

There is no greater gift you can give your biz than enlisting the help of someone who has been where you want to go.

As a wedding industry business coach and mentor , of course, I will advocate for what I do. And that's because I've seen the results my expertise brings to those that I humbly help.

If you're serious about starting a wedding planning business, pay for an expert to teach you the road to success. 

I want you to be open to learning as much as you can from trusted sources as you navigate the tricky road of entrepreneurship. Recognize that you don't know everything, be 100% coachable, and apply what you learn in your business.

The truth is, you'll achieve the results you want quicker, better, and faster than you had expected.

Step 11: Believe In Yourself

Finally, I want you to believe in yourself because you were put on this earth for great things.

No, seriously, I want you to believe in your abilities to design a business you love, a business YOU want. While you may lack experience in certain areas, you have a wealth of knowledge about how things work.

You're smart. You're driven. And you're here for the right reasons. Believe in your abilities to learn as you go and apply your knowledge and unique life experiences to the services and products you provide.

For instance, too many people quit because they lack the confidence and belief in themselves to do what they want to do. I don't want you to be one of those people. 

I believe in you. So believe in yourself. All things are possible, and you CAN design a business that you love–and one that gives back to your meaningful life.

And if you're ready to take your wedding planning dreams to the next level, I want to invite you to check out my coaching program for wedding planners .

The Planner's Playbook is your secret weapon for planning, designing, and coordinating high-end weddings like a pro. The doors to this program are open now for a limited time. Click here to learn more about The Planner's Playbook!

Not ready for that? Then grab my free course on how to start your wedding planning business!

Let's summarize this post so you can start your wedding planning business:

How do I start a wedding planning business?

Follow these steps to start and launch your wedding planning business:

It's important to know what kind of business YOU want so that you can reverse engineer the strategies that it will take to get there. Don't skip this step.

Every business needs a strategy to grow and scale. Sit down and write your business plan using your vision as a guide for the strategies you'll create in marketing, sales, services, and pricing.

Businesses exist to serve their customers. Who are you serving? Know your ideal client as well as you know your BFF–and then create products and solutions that help them.

The wedding industry is a saturated market. You'll need to create a brand that stands out from the competition and gets noticed. How will you be different from the rest?

Initially, it'll be easy because you won't have many clients. But as your business grows, it's important to continue working on it more than in it.

The wedding industry is a people industry. Form relationships and connections with the right people–the businesses already in front of your dreamy clients–and watch your biz grow.

Marketing is simply sharing your message so it reaches the right people. Know your message and watch your ICAs start knocking on your door.

Resist the temptation to copy others and be confident that you can do things your way. A signature way of doing anything for your customers will set you apart from the competition.

Nothing happens overnight. It could take months to land your first wedding, so give your business time to take root. Don't rush the brush, so to speak. That moment you feel like quitting? Keep going.

Why try and figure this out all on your own when you could hire someone to help you achieve your goals quicker, faster, and better? Hire a mentor who has been where you want to go and watch how quickly you scale.

A little confidence goes a long way. Believe in your worthiness, experience, creativity, and capabilities. You can do this.

If you're serious about starting your wedding planning business, here are some resources I offer to help:

• Free Business Plan Outline + Guide
• Free Course To Launch Your Wedding Planning Business
• The Client Cocktail
• The Planner's Playbook
• WeddingPro Insiders
• Wedding Planner Business Tools

Know that I'm cheering you on and believing in you. 

Explore More Wedding Industry Resources

How to become a wedding planner with no experience.

• 9 Mistakes to Avoid When Starting Your Wedding Planning Business
• The Ultimate Wedding Planner Templates in 2024

How To Prepare For Your First Wedding As A Wedding Planner

• 6 Things You Need To Include In Your Wedding Planner Process
• How To Build Your Portfolio As A Wedding Planner When You’re Just Starting Out
• Why You Need To Create A Client Journey As A Wedding Planner
• How To Get Wedding Clients When You’re Just Starting Out
• Day of Coordination: The Pros and Cons as a Wedding Planner
• How Much Should You Charge As A Wedding Planner? Learn How To Figure Out Your Wedding Planner Pricing
• 5 Contracts Every Wedding Planner Must Have To Be Legally Set
• The #1 Reason Why You’re Not Booking The Right Wedding Clients (And How To Fix It)
• 5 Online Wedding Planning Tools You Need to Use
• How To Become A Destination Wedding Planner
• 4 Strategies That Will Help You Book MORE Of Your Ideal Clients
• 5 Tips On Crafting a Business Plan To Book Out Your Biz With Your Ideal Clients And Get Paid
• What A Business Plan Will REALLY Reveal About Your Business
• 6 Reasons Why I Recommend Asana for Wedding Planners
• Are You a Disorganized Wedding Planner? Let’s Fix That With These Organized Wedding Planner Tips!

For More Wedding Planner Business Secrets Follow Me On Instagram

We were long overdue for a shank and cuddle. 🫶🏼 ilysm and tag your bestie who needs to hear this pep talk too and for the love of Pete STOP PROCRASTINATING 😘 #motivation #procrastination #candicecoppola #weddingindustry #weddingpros #weddingvendodors #smallbusiness #peptalk #shankandcuddle

Should you be on TikTok? That’s a question I get asked a lot - and it should come as no surprise that I have some STRONG feelings about this. The quick answer is yes - but not on the way you think. Comment EPISODE 128 and I’ll send you a link to this weeks episode of The Power in Purpose podcast where you’ll hear me make the case for why it think it’s a MUST. Plus, I talk about Nancy Meyers, THAT submarine, and Vanderpump Rules. Once you listen, I’d love to hear your take. Agree or disagree with my opinion?! #weddingindustry #weddingpro #candicecoppola #marketing #weddingpros #weddingplanning101 #weddingindustryeducation #marketingstrategy #socialmediamarketing

Soooooo what’s your price look like? 😳🤔 To all my wedding pros, don’t do this! Comment CONSULT and I’ll send you a link to my consultation cheat sheet with the right questions to ask during a consult 😉 #weddingmeme #weddingmemes #weddingindustry #weddingfun #weddingfunny #weddingplanning

✨ Spend the day with me and see what a very busy day is like for me as a business coach and content creator! Yesterday was definitely a full day of coaching calls with the women in my mastermind and a lot of teaching and content creation. Here’s how I spent my day: Coaching calls with @ininkweddings @afamilyaffairmaine @itssimplyaddy @wild.smile.events @nicoledaniellestudios @laceandbowbridalnm @atouchofgrayevents @letterpressmade Teaching a workshop with @honeybook Recording an episode of my podcast (premiering next week!) Trying to get my steps in and taking the smallest of breaks between meetings Not everyday looks like yesterday, but I definitely love when I get to spend my time with the women and communities I serve! Would you like to see more content like this from me? I’d really like to hear from you! This was a lot of fun to make. ❤️ #candicecoppola #dayinthelife #weddingindustry #weddingpro #businesscoach #podcaster #adayinthelife #thepowerinpurposepodcast #weddingpros #weddingindustryeducation

Want more? Check out this video on my YouTube channel ↓

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Wedding planning business can be very successful career, if you work properly before establishing it. Many people learn the basic etiquettes about wedding planning while event planning course. If you want to get basic knowledge you can also get a course from a good institution and start up your business. Though it is a very interesting and joyful business for those, who love thrill and fun, but at the same time it demands commitment lots of energy and stress. Before starting up your business for wedding planning if you follow some important points, you can get better result in start and get good grip over your business soon.

Great post! I read your blog fairly often and you’re always coming out with some great stuff. I shared this on my Facebook and my followers loved it! Keep up the good work. 🙂

Nice post. I just found this article while searching for ways to improve my wedding business. This is not only helpful for people looking to start a wedding business, I got a lot out of it after being in business for nearly 20 years. Thanks for the great info!

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How to Start a Wedding Planning Business

How to become a wedding planner and hit the ground running

If you’re organized, creative, and have volunteered to plan every party since you were a kid, you might have thought about how great it would be to plan events professionally. Pair that with the fact that you might have already helped more than a few friends plan their weddings and you could be seriously considering it. But, as much as you want to jump headfirst into the deep end, the part of you that always thinks ahead wants to make sure you have all of your proverbial ducks in a row (you are naturally organized after all). So today, we wanted to help you map out what you need to make that fun and fulfilling career choice a reality by walking you through the steps it takes to start a wedding planning business . From making sure you’re filing all the necessary paperwork to building a brand that attracts your dream clients, grab your to-do list and take all the notes you need to get your business off the ground.

“How do I start a wedding planning business?”

In the moments after you decided that becoming a wedding planner was what you wanted to pursue, you likely asked yourself, “ How do I start a wedding planning business?” And you’re not alone in wondering this—many successful wedding planners don’t have a background in business and started searching for answers to the same question. Lucky for you, you’re here reading this article and we’ve already mapped out most of your first steps for you. 

If you want to start a wedding planning business , read this first.

The piece we linked covers a lot of the fundamental tasks you need to take care of as you start your own business in the wedding industry. From making sure you’ve completed the necessary filings (to make sure your business is legit) and what’s important to have in your contracts to our favorite small business software and marketing tips to get you started, the article is more than worth the read (and a bookmark for future reference).

Invest in your education

While you don’t have to get a 4-year degree, it is still important to invest in your education because there is so much to being a professional wedding planner (read: it is very different from planning a family member or friend’s wedding). You need to know how to onboard your clients , run a ceremony rehearsal, and create a wedding day timeline (just to name a few)—so investing in an educational course, workshop or certification is highly recommended.

Pro-tip : WeddingPro Educators Lindsay Longacre and Heather Hoesch put their 20+ years of wedding planning experience to work and created the Planner Life Academy online course for wedding planners . If you’re looking for a great way to learn from home and get tons of templates to build your business from, this course is it.

In addition to learning how to become a wedding planner in a more traditional sense, it’s important to get some hands-on experience before taking on clients of your own. You can ask more established planners if they are looking for interns or day-of assistants or simply ask to shadow them to see more of what goes into a successful wedding day.  

Create a business plan

A business plan is a fundamental document for any wedding business, and it is one that often gets overlooked since most pros in the industry didn’t go to business school. But you don’t have to (nor should you) skip this important step in planning just because you don’t know where to start! A business plan is simply a document that describes what you do as a business, outlines your business goals as well as how you plan to achieve them—and you should learn what goes into creating a 5-year plan for your business before diving into anything else.

Pro-tip : You might realize there are people you need help from as you work to start a wedding planning business and reach your goals. Here are 8 business resources you need to have on speed dial.

Define your ideal clients

Once you’ve spent time thinking about your business goals and have started to plan out what you need to do to reach them, it’s a great time to start defining your ideal clients . Sure, you might be in the phase of business where you’ll book just about any couple who comes your way (truthfully, this is where most pros start), but having a clear understanding of who your clients are now and who they will be in the future will help you plan for growth and success. Block some time on your calendar to create client avatars for:

• The couples you want to attract and book as your clients in your first 1-2 years in business
• The couples you want to grow into booking more of (these details will be tied to the goals you have mapped out for about your 3 rd year in business)
• The couples who are your most ideal client—nothing says you can’t book ideal clients right out of the gate, but for many new wedding planners, it is something they have to grow into

Creating your packages and price your services

Because weddings take months (sometimes more than a year) to plan, it can be overwhelming to develop your service packages and price them to be profitable. The good news is that there are 4 common types of wedding planning services, and your job is to mainly define what yours will include:

• Full-service wedding planning
• Partial wedding planning services
• Wedding management
• Wedding coordination

How you price your services will depend on your market and will be influenced by your experience. You should learn more about these pricing strategies before finalizing yours, and while you might want to set your prices a bit lower because you are just starting out, don’t start so low that you are undercutting others or making your path to higher prices a longer one. 

Pro-tip : Your pricing is fluid, and you should review it every year. Here are 4 reasons to raise your prices annually .

Build a brand and name your business

A lot of people are tempted to start their business planning with branding, but the truth of the matter is, you have to know what your business is doing and who it is doing it for before you can build the right brand for it. The good news is—this is the part of becoming a wedding planner that is fun for a lot of folks. You’ll want to start by coming up with a business name, purchasing a domain for your website, and securing your social media handles once you’ve landed on “the one.” From there, you might consider filing for a trademark on your business name in order to legally protect it. Which brings you to the creative part of the branding process: 

• Familiarize yourself with the brand archetypes to help you define your brand’s personality (in a way that complements what your couples are looking for in a wedding planner)
• Work with a professional graphic designer to create a brand that is unique to you and speaks to your potential clients
• Create a set of brand guidelines so your brand is being displayed consistently

Build your portfolio and create marketing materials 

If there was one part of the how-to-become-a-wedding-planner equation that perplexed people, it would be this. Because you can go through all of the steps we’ve just talked about only to feel stuck over the fact that you don’t have a portfolio or images to market your new business with. No need to stress—there are solutions to this problem. The first is to know that your portfolio includes so much more than just photos from weddings you’ve planned. It also includes your design boards, sketches, client reviews, and certifications—all of which you can use to build your wedding planner portfolio . The second thing to know is that coordinating a styled shoot as you go to launch your business is a strategic thing to do and a great way to set yourself up with images that embody your brand and speak to your ideal clients.

Pro-tip : Be sure to read this piece about styled shoots to help you pitch them and protect yourself accordingly.

Book your first client

Learning how to become a wedding planner and start a wedding planning business is a true labor of love—and you start to reap the rewards when you book for first clients. And, while some new wedding planners book family and friends to start, advertising with The Knot and WeddingWire is a great way to start building your brand and establishing yourself as a trusted professional. If you want to complement the marketing efforts you are taking with an advertising strategy that can connect you with couples looking to hire a wedding planner just like you, simply fill out this form and we’ll help get you started!

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This year's wedding season could be the most lucrative yet. One wedding planner shares how she plans to double her revenue.

• Chanda Monique Daniels is the founder of an event planning business that specializes in LGBTQ+ weddings. 
• In the 22 years since Daniels launched her company, she's never faced a wedding season like this year.
• Daniels shares the 5 steps to building a wedding planning business, including how to deal with crazed couples.

Chanda Monique Daniels discovered her passion for event planning at a young age — she was 16, organizing her birthday party, and infatuated with the sense of control it gave her. 

"It was a thing that I loved and knew how to do," said Daniels, who now runs her own San Francisco-based wedding and event planning business A Monique Affair . Daniels specializes in same-sex weddings along with nonprofit and corporate events. 

In the 22 years since Daniels launched her company, she's never faced a wedding season like this year. Couples who postponed their nuptials in 2020 have rescheduled celebrations for this year or 2022, creating one of the busiest years for weddings in decades , according to a February study from the wedding resource platform The Knot. 

Daniels booked $74,000 in revenue in 2019, a typical year for weddings and events, according to documents viewed by Insider. However, she expects to double that amount this year. 

Daniels tells insider the 5 steps to building a wedding planning business, including how to deal with crazed couples. 

First, identify your style of events

The most critical step in building a wedding planning business is determining your ideal style of event, Daniels said. Once you identify those factors, you'll have a roadmap for marketing your business, finding vendors, and communicating with clients, she added. 

For instance, do you want to specify in weddings that are bohemian or traditional? Do you prefer working with modern wedding trends or timeless ceremonies? "Take the time and hone in on those things," Daniels said, noting that those decisions will also help you identify your ideal client. 

Then, build strong relationships with vendors 

Once you know what style you'll pursue, start contacting vendors that match your vision, Daniels said. However, these relationships are vital to your business and it's important to practice authenticity, she added. 

Daniels prefers to meet with prospective vendors in person and build a rapport with them. She'll ask about their favorite things and later recommend shops or restaurants based on their answers. 

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"People remember that more than a pamphlet or brochure," Daniels said. "You want to get along with folks and also have a good time." 

Maintain a rapport with vendors in the off seasons

While wedding season typically runs from late spring to early fall, Daniels stays in touch with her vendors throughout the year by sending texts or emails, she said. Last year, when the events industry struggled amid the pandemic, she sent cards of support to other professionals.  

"It's more than just business," Daniels said. "We talk about so much more within one wedding than just the service we're providing." 

Keep behind-the-scenes work organized 

Now that you're planning events, invest in a client management system, Daniels said. She uses event planning website Aisle Planner , which provides checklists, seating arrangement guides, and guest list tracking. 

Additionally, she uses project management software Basecamp for communication tasks like uploading contracts and proposals. 

"The more clients see that you're organized, the more comfortable they will feel," Daniels said. 

Dealing with groom- or bride-zillas

If your organizational skills do little to ease a groom- or bride-zilla, Daniels suggests examining where that person's stress originates and alleviate that pain point. 

For instance, if customers get defensive about their budget, Daniels says she understands they worked hard for that money and will spend it appropriately. 

"That is a very overlooked talent of a wedding planner," Daniels said. "It's not just about making things beautiful, it's handling the stress and everything else that could possibly be going on with a couple." 

Watch: How this company saved thousands of flowers during the pandemic

• Main content

Wedding Planner Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Wedding Planning Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their wedding planning companies.

If you’re unfamiliar with creating a wedding planning business plan, you may think creating one will be a time-consuming and frustrating process. For most entrepreneurs it is, but for you, it won’t be since we’re here to help. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a wedding planning business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Wedding Planning Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your wedding planning business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan as a Wedding Planner

If you’re looking to start a wedding planning business or grow your existing wedding planning company, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your wedding planning business to improve your chances of success. Your wedding planning business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Wedding Planning Businesses

With regard to funding, the main sources of funding for a wedding planning business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for wedding planning companies.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a wedding planning business.

If you want to start a wedding planning business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your wedding planning business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of wedding planning business you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a wedding planning business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of wedding planning businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

• Give a brief overview of the wedding planning industry.
• Discuss the type of wedding planning business you are operating.
• Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
• Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
• Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of wedding planning business you are operating.

For example, you might specialize in one of the following types of wedding planning businesses:

• Traditional wedding planning : Wedding planners in this type of business utilize a wide array of skills to plan and execute the wedding rehearsal, the wedding ceremony, the reception, and the after-party. In many cases, the wedding planners will also plan and oversee the bridal shower, the bachelorette party, and the bachelor party, as well.
• Wedding ceremony planning: Wedding planners are often contracted to plan exclusive or small wedding ceremonies without receptions that follow. In this type of wedding planning business, the details of the ceremony and the rehearsal prior to it are the components that require artful design and a composed execution. Wedding planners will often oversee the entire wedding party before the wedding ceremony and direct the flow of the wedding itself, as well.
• Extreme wedding planning: With the growing popularity of unique and over-the-top weddings, extreme wedding planners are called upon to create detailed plans and highly-complex preparations for successful weddings and receptions. A bride who wants to get married in a hot air balloon, a groom who desires to get married on a professional football field, or a couple who desire to get married during an opera onstage all require the highest level of attention for a wedding planning business.
• Destination wedding planning: Wedding planners who specialize in destination weddings have become significantly more popular in recent years. Part travel agent and part wedding planner, the skills required in this type of wedding planning business are extensive. Wedding planners will often accompany the wedding party to the destination, as well as take care of all the details.
• Luxury wedding planning: Wedding planners are often called upon to demonstrate the highest level of luxury for a wedding and reception. This may mean a weekend wedding with guests at multiple events: pre-wedding cocktail parties, pre-wedding golf games, rehearsal dinners, wedding ceremonies, receptions and morning-after buffets are all part of the top-shelf luxuries offered by wedding planners in this type of wedding planning business.
• Budget-saving wedding planning: In addition to brides who want the most exclusive and expensive weddings, there are those who are more practical and resourceful in their wedding plans. Wedding planners in this type of business offer reasonable rates, artful compositions, sustainable features and memorable receptions without breaking the bank for their clients.

In addition to explaining the type of wedding planning business you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of clients served, the number of destination weddings with highly-positive outcomes, reaching X number of clients served, etc.
• Your legal business Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the wedding planning industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the wedding planning industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your wedding planning business plan:

• How big is the wedding planning industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your wedding planning business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your wedding planning business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, bridal couples, families of bridal couples, and friends of bridal couples.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of wedding planning business you operate. Clearly, the mother-of-the-bride would respond to different marketing promotions than young friends of the couple, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other wedding planning businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes church wedding hosts, personal friends of the bride or groom, retail department stores that offer wedding attire.

For each direct competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But, you should be able to find out key things about them such as

• What types of weddings are their specialty?
• Which wedding locations and settings do they frequent?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide optional amenities for the reception?
• Will you offer wedding-related products that your competition doesn’t?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a wedding planning business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of wedding planning company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide 3-4 pre-wedding planning sessions with your client, will you offer a full traditional wedding and reception package, or will you offer to arrange child care for babies and children during the reception?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your plan, you are presenting the products and/or services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your wedding planning company. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your wedding planning business located in a busy retail shopping district, is it attached to a major event center, or is it near an exceptional wedding venue? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your wedding planning marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
• Reach out to websites
• Distribute flyers
• Engage in email marketing
• Advertise on social media platforms
• Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your wedding planning business, including answering calls, planning and providing wedding planner services, billing clients and maintaining records, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to book your Xth wedding, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your wedding planning business to a new city.

Management Team

To demonstrate your wedding planning business’ potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing wedding planning businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a wedding planning business or successfully running an event planning business.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you meet with prospective clients three times each day, and/or offer a few, small wedding planner services as a gift to the bride? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your wedding planning business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a wedding planning business:

• Cost of furnishings, decor items and office supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your office location lease or a list of contracted clients on a 6-month planning calendar.

Writing a business plan for your wedding planning business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the wedding planning industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful wedding planning business.

Wedding Planning Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my wedding planning business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your wedding planning business plan.

How Do You Start a Wedding Planning Business?

Starting a Wedding Planning business is easy with these 14 steps:

• Choose the Name for Your Wedding Planning Business
• Create Your Wedding Planning Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Wedding Planning Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Wedding Planning Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Wedding Planning Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Wedding Planning Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Wedding Planning Business Equipment
• Develop Your Wedding Planning Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Wedding Planning Business
• Open for Business

Learn more about how to start your own wedding planning business .

Where Can I Download a Free Business Plan Template PDF?

Click here to download the pdf version of our basic business plan template.

Our free business plan template pdf allows you to see the key sections to complete in your plan and the key questions that each must answer. The business plan pdf will definitely get you started in the right direction.

We do offer a premium version of our business plan template. Click here to learn more about it. The premium version includes numerous features allowing you to quickly and easily create a professional business plan. Its most touted feature is its financial projections template which allows you to simply enter your estimated sales and growth rates, and it automatically calculates your complete five-year financial projections including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Here’s the link to our Ultimate Business Plan Template.

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BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to start a wedding business

• Rachel Bistricer

If you're passionate about creating unforgettable moments and have a flair for organizing special events, starting a wedding business could be an exciting venture for you. This guide will take you through the steps of initiating and operating a successful wedding business, including the advantages and challenges involved in starting a business , how to go about creating a business website  and strategies for generating revenue in the wedding industry.

What is a wedding business?

A wedding business is a service-oriented business  that offers a range of services related to wedding planning and execution. Wedding businesses typically provide services such as:

Wedding planning and coordination

Venue selection and decoration

Catering and menu planning

Floral arrangements and event design

Photography and videography services

Entertainment and music coordination

Bridal and groom attire consultation

Beauty and grooming services

Why start a wedding business?

The wedding industry outlook points to healthy growth on the horizon, with projections forecasting a compound annual growth rate of 4.8% through 2030 . As engaged couples increasingly seek to personalize their special day and create memorable wedding experiences, they are willing to invest substantially in bringing their perfect wedding to life. This presents ample opportunities for wedding-focused businesses to provide customized products and services tailored to discerning couples. By staying on top of wedding industry trends and gaining insights into what engaged couples are looking for, you can strategically position a new wedding business.

How to start a wedding business in 6 steps

Create a business plan

Select a business structure

Obtain business financing or capital

Set up accounting and bookkeeping services

Source specific wedding equipment

Register your wedding business

01. Create a business plan

Develop a comprehensive business plan  that addresses key aspects of your wedding business idea 's strategy, such as your target market, executive summary, marketing strategy  and financial projections. This plan acts as a guide for your business, helping to communicate your vision to potential investors during fundraising efforts. It should also include other important business information such as the type of business  you plan to start and your choice of a business name . 

Here’s a wedding business plan template to get you started:

Wedding business plan template

Executive Summary

Business Name:  [Your Wedding Business Name]

Business Structure:  [Sole Proprietorship/Partnership/LLC/Corporation]

Location:  [City, State]

Founding Date:  [Month, Year]

Founders/Owners:  [Names]

Mission Statement:  [Concise statement of the business’s purpose]

Business Description

Overview:  Briefly describe your wedding business, highlighting key features, services, and specialties.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP):  Clearly define what sets your business apart from competitors.

Target Market:  Identify your primary client demographic and market segment.

Services and Specialties

List and describe the wedding services and specialties your business will offer.

Include areas such as wedding planning, venue selection, catering, photography, and entertainment.

Market Analysis

Industry Overview:  Provide an overview of the wedding industry, including trends and growth projections.

Competitor Analysis:  Identify key competitors, analyze their strengths and weaknesses.

Target Audience:  Define your target client profile and their preferences.

Marketing and Sales Strategy

Marketing Plan:  Outline your strategies for promoting the business, both online and offline.

Pricing Strategy:  Detail your pricing structure and any promotional pricing.

Sales Tactics:  Describe how you will attract clients and secure wedding projects.

Operational Plan

Location and Facilities:  Describe your office location and facilities.

Suppliers:  List and describe key suppliers for goods and services.

Staffing:  Outline your staffing plan, including roles and responsibilities.

Financial Plan

Startup Costs:  Detail initial investment requirements and startup expenses.

Revenue Projections:  Provide realistic revenue projections for the first 3-5 years.

Operating Costs:  Outline ongoing operating expenses, including utilities, software, and staff salaries.

Funding Requirements:  Specify any funding needed and potential sources (loans, investors).

Funding Proposal

Purpose of Funding:  Clearly state how the funds will be utilized.

Amount Needed:  Specify the amount of funding required.

Repayment Plan:  Outline the proposed repayment plan for loans or investments.

Risk Analysis

Identify potential risks and challenges that may impact the success of your wedding business.

Develop strategies to mitigate and manage these risks.

Include any additional documents or information relevant to your business plan.

Examples: Portfolio samples, resumes of key team members and mock-ups of design proposals.

Summarize the key points of your business plan and highlight the potential success of your wedding business.

Conclude with a call to action or next steps.

Note: This template serves as a general guide. Adjust and expand sections based on your specific business model and goals.

02. Select a business structure

Choose an appropriate business entity  or structure for your wedding business, whether it’s a sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC ) or corporation . Each structure comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, so select the one that aligns with your business objectives.

Learn more: How to start an LLC

03. Obtain business financing or capital

Starting a wedding business involves initial costs. Secure financing through methods like bank loans, grants, or investments from stakeholders to launch and sustain your business.

Costs that you’ll need to factor in when securing financing for your business include:

Office space and utilities

Marketing and advertising campaigns

Making a website  and its maintenance

Event planning software and technology infrastructure

Initial salaries and benefits for employees

Professional memberships and certifications

Insurance coverage (liability, professional indemnity)

Legal fees for contracts and compliance

04. Set up accounting and bookkeeping systems

Establish robust accounting and bookkeeping systems from the beginning to track income, expenses, and ensure financial viability. This includes managing tax obligations if applicable.

05. Source specific wedding equipment

Acquire the necessary equipment for your wedding business, including event planning software, computers, and design tools. Ensure that your technology infrastructure supports efficient event coordination and communication. Some more specific examples of this include:

Event planning software for collaboration

Computers and design tools

Printers and scanners for document preparation

Furniture for the office workspace

Photography and videography equipment

Decorative items and props for event styling

Catering and serving equipment

06. Register your wedding business

Register your wedding business in compliance with local regulations, obtain the required licenses and secure appropriate insurance coverage including liability and professional indemnity insurance.

Learn more: How to register a business , How to get a business license

Tips for managing your wedding business for profitability

Once you’ve got your wedding business off the ground, you’ll need to understand how to properly run and manage it in order to make sure it’s profitable. Here are some general tips on how to achieve that. 

Research your industry and gain a deep understanding of the wedding industry, including market competition, target demographics and client preferences. Gain practical experience by working with established wedding planners or participating in relevant events.

Develop a robust marketing strategy from the beginning to proactively promote your wedding business. Create a professional website showcasing your portfolio, services, and client testimonials. Utilize social media platforms for targeted marketing.

Exceptional customer service is crucial for success in the wedding industry. Ensure open communication, meet client expectations, and go the extra mile to create a memorable experience.

Wedding businesses to inspire (all built on Wix)

Shreeji weddings.

Design team planning wedding ceremony decorations to provide a unique design and experience. 

Emily Rose Weddings

Personal wedding coordinator With experience in wedding day planning, preparation, supplier liaison and client support. 

Applewood Farms

Wedding venue offering a wide variety of customizable menus and design options.

Benefits of starting a wedding business

Operating a wedding business allows you to turn your passion for events into a thriving career. You have the flexibility to be your own boss, set your schedule, and contribute to the creation of memorable moments for couples.

Challenges of running a wedding business

Wedding planning requires diverse skills, including organization, creativity, and effective communication. Coordinating multiple elements of a wedding, managing client expectations, and handling unforeseen challenges are common challenges in the industry.

How profitable is a wedding business?

The profitability of a wedding business depends on factors such as location, market demand, competition, pricing strategies, and service quality. Building a reputation for delivering exceptional events and streamlining business processes can contribute to higher profitability.

Other business ideas you might be interested in

How to start an architecture business

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How to start a rental property business

How to start a farming business

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How to start a gaming business

How to start a sports card business  

How to start a frozen food business  

How to start a courier business  

How to start a laundromat business

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RESOURCES & COMMUNITY FOR WEDDING PLANNERS

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guides & templates

25 Steps to Start Your Wedding Planning Business

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Confidently start your wedding planning business with this comprehensive guide and worksheets. 25 Steps to Start Your Wedding Planning Business guidebook includes each step necessary to start your own wedding planning business. This 70+ page guidebook and business plan template are perfect for aspiring wedding planners who are ready to start their own business.

Start your wedding planning business on the path to success today!

Get it now-$34

product features

A 70-page comprehensive guidebook

Written by Debbie Orwat, Founder + Chief Inspiration Officer at Planner’s Lounge. Topics covered include naming your business tips, legal entities available, what to consider when choosing your advisory board, trademarks, resources for creating your first website, bookkeeping guidance when starting out, branding basics for new wedding planners, pricing and service offerings when starting out, what you need to know about social media, how to get paid by clients, and much more! Not only does the guide go through the details on how to start your business, it includes personal experiences plus links to more than 30 additional resources and recommendations. Click here to see the full table of contents

Basic business plan template specific for wedding and event planners

This isn’t your typical 50-page grueling business plan for a business that requires investors or loans. It’s a simple nine-page plan that covers the important topics for aspiring wedding business owners.

A one-page summary checklist

Use this to keep track of your to-do list as you go through the 25 steps in the guide.

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Start a wedding planning biz

what they're saying

"it gets you started off on the path to success!"

“This guide takes all the mystery and headaches out of trying to figure out what needs to be done before you take your first client. It gets you started off on the path to success.”

"one of the best initial investments you'll make!"

“This guide truly guides you through all the essential components. (Plus some stand-out extras!) Complimenting the abundance of helpful information, this guide is not only beautiful, but it’s easy to digest. If you’re on the brink of leaping into your passion-turned-business, this will be one of the best initial investments you’ll make. Go on – make your first step! You can do it with this guide! This is a gift to the up-and-coming wedding and events industry entrepreneurs!”

"an all-in-one resource that planners can refer to often!"

“It’s an all-in-one resource that planners can refer to often. I wish I had this e-book when I started my business 5 years ago. I will be sure to refer to it often now to help me with my business! It’s concise and easy to read, yet extremely detailed. With this e-book, you will have many tools of the trade to get on your feet, stay organized, and succeed in the industry.”

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frequently asked questions

The 25 Steps to Start Your Wedding Planning Business product is fully electronic. After purchasing, you will receive immediate access to download all of the files to start using today.

Yes, the files are compatible with both PC’s and Mac computers. After your purchase, you will receive a link to download a zipped file which is a compressed file that contains all of the included files. Open the zipped file on a computer to access the files which can then be used on your computer, tablet, or phone.

If you are not completely satisfied, we offer a 7-day money-back guarantee with no questions asked. Click here to see the full table of contents.

There are a few sections of this guide that are only relevant for U.S. based businesses. For example, the links for where to file your business name, what U.S. banks require to open a business account, and U.S. trademarks won’t apply to you. However, the processes in this guide are the same steps you would use to start a business in most countries and would be helpful no matter where you live. There is a 7-day money-back guarantee if you aren’t fully satisfied.

One-on-one coaching is an ideal way to get personalized professional guidance to start your wedding and event planning business. You can find more information for one-on-one coaching here .

Please save the product files to a safe location immediately after your purchase. We recommend using Google Drive or Dropbox for free online storage. You can also download the zip file and email it to yourself, then keep that email for future use. We do not reissue files or links for the 25 Steps to Start Your Wedding Planning Business product.

Yes, this guide would work well for anyone wishing to start a business in the wedding industry. The two sections in the guide that won’t apply to you are related specifically to services and pricing for planners and to managing client tasks as a wedding planner.

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How to Become a Wedding Planner, According to the Experts

One step closer to your dream job!

Have you ever thought about becoming a wedding planner ? If you dream about helping couples craft the most special day of their lives, get a thrill every time you hear “I do” or see a bride in her wedding dress for the first time, and love organization, details, and design, then it might be the profession for you.

While it's one of the most rewarding jobs a person can have, becoming a wedding planner takes more than just good taste. "The top skills for a wedding planner in my opinion are communication, organization, creativity, and impeccable attention to detail," notes Nicole-Natassha Goulding of Chic by Nicole .

In order to share what the road to becoming a wedding planner is really like, we tapped some successful industry insiders to share what skills are needed to make it in the industry and how they got their own start in the field.

Meet the Expert

• Nicole-Natassha Goulding is the creative director and founder of full-service wedding planning company Chic by Nicole .
• Heather Hoesch and Lindsay Ferguson own LVL Weddings & Events , known for producing one-of-a-kind weddings in California, Hawaii, and Colorado. They are also co-owners of Planner Life Academy , which offers workshops and virtual training programs to prepare leaders to open their own wedding planning businesses.
• Francie Dorman is the owner of 42 North , a full-service wedding and event planning firm. She is based in Ipswich, Massachusetts, and specializes in high-luxury celebrations across New England. She also mentors young wedding planners through a sister company, Mavinhouse Events.
• Teissia Treynet is the founder and CFO of Firefly Events , a high-level event planning company with offices in New York, California, and Wyoming. She also runs The Firefly Method , a community and education platform for thousands of wedding planners and small business owners across the world.
• Michelle Rago owns Michelle Rago Destinations , a wedding and events company considered one of the best in the world. Her office is based in New York City, but she is known for organizing elaborate destination weddings in far-flung locations.

Ahead, learn about the qualifications you need to become a wedding planner, straight from the experts.

Skills and Qualifications for Wedding Planners

Like in most career fields, you need certain skills, personality traits, and qualifications to become a wedding planner. Ahead, see some of the most important ones, according to the pros.

Be a Great Leader Under Pressure

Being a wedding planner requires you to wear many hats. At any one time, you have to deal with vendors , couples, their families, and finances. Of course, there can also be a lot of drama. “Being a good leader and being able to stay calm, delegate, listen, and lead in a time of stress is your most important skill,” wedding planner Lindsay Ferguson says. 

Learn these skills by interning or shadowing with wedding planners, so you can be immersed in different situations and learn how to address the chaos. 

Having Empathy While Remaining Professional

“Anyone can learn the systems and standard operating procedures of event planning, but what makes a planner really great at their job are characteristics like problem-solving, empathy, professionalism, and high attention to detail,” shares planner Francie Dorman . “Someone who likes to feel purposeful, and strives to make others feel important and cared for are two factors for success in this unique industry.”

Being Organized and Attentive to Details

Wedding planning requires you to be uber-organized and attentive to details. After all, so many components go into the event from schedules to menus to dance playlists . “These skills or traits can be built on as you grow into your role,” explains Dorman. “They are muscles that can get stronger as they are flexed.” If you don’t have these traits naturally, consider an internship or entry-level job to help you develop them.

Getting Hands-On Experience

While you don’t technically need any certifications or degrees to become a wedding planner, getting experience from a veteran is essential. “As a wedding planner, you’re also safeguarding one of the most important times in most people’s lives so it’s imperative you know what you’re doing,” says Teissa Treynet . While getting experience in regular event planning is helpful, Ferguson notes that wedding planning is a different game. “Corporate planning or non-profit planning does not count," she says. You must seek out quality education from a reputable source and couple this with hands-on experience by working under a wedding-trained and experienced planner.”

Seeking Out Learning Opportunities

While having a pro show you the ropes is important at the beginning of your career, expect to continue that education over the years. “The best wedding planners have a ‘never stop learning’ mindset,” says Hoesch. “They read, they watch webinars and social media lives, and they collaborate and listen to wedding podcasts . They take courses, and attend workshops and conferences.” Many of these resources are available online, so you can start your education in your free time. As Rago puts it: “If I have learned anything over the last 20 years, it’s the importance of constantly learning and keeping up with what is tried-and-true.”

How Real Planners Got Their Start

For those who want to pursue this path but don’t know where to begin, we interviewed five renowned wedding planners —many of whom run courses to teach up-and-coming event organizers—on how they began their careers in the field.

Lindsay Ferguson got her start by working part-time for a wedding planner in Chicago as a young professional. “I always had a love for hospitality and customer service-focused careers,” she says. “I grew up with an entrepreneurial mom who really encouraged me to find something that I loved and was passionate about.” Meanwhile, Heather Hoesch worked for a family friend who owned the local bridal salon in high school. “She hired me to clean, hang, and steam dresses,” she recalls. In college, Hoesch worked for a catering company that primarily did weddings. “It was a crash course in weddings,” she continues. “I learned a ton about food, service, timelines, flow, logistics, guest experience, and catering to couples' needs for their special day.” Five years later, she was ready to start her own company. Ferguson and Hoesch now are co-owners of LVL Weddings & Events and of Planner Life Academy , which offers workshops and virtual training programs to prepare leaders to open their own wedding planning businesses.

Early in her career, Francie Dorman worked as an event hostess, an executive assistant, and a GM at a restaurant. “These experiences helped me build fortitude and a deep understanding of what happens in the ‘back of the house.’” Dorman explains. Her first wedding planning job was for a small, local company where she took on more responsibilities before getting clients of her own. She now is the owner of 42 North , a full-service wedding and event planning firm, and mentors young wedding planners through a sister company, Mavinhouse Events.

Teissia Treynet started a career as a development coordinator for a nonprofit in Los Angeles, where she planned large-scale, celebrity-driven events. A year later, she helped her best friend plan his wedding on the island of Holbox, Mexico, and started Firefly Events soon after. (Fun fact: She booked her first paying client off Craigslist!)

Michelle Rago attended the New York Restaurant School, worked in hotel sales, and operated a flower business for years before landing on weddings. Those experiences gave her a “more holistic approach of producing with an emphasis on design, food and beverage, and service,” she says. She now owns Michelle Rago Destinations , a wedding and events company based in New York City, and is known for organizing elaborate destination weddings in far-flung locations.

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Wedding Planning Business

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Wedding Planning Business

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on February 7, 2022 Updated on May 8, 2024

Investment range

$2,250 - $7,600

Revenue potential

$36,000 - $120,000 p.a.

Time to build

0 – 3 months

Profit potential

$32,000 - $72,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Oh, that big day that children dream about. The day when they get to be the star and marry the person of their dreams. It has to be perfect!  But planning that perfect day can be a monumental task. In comes the wedding planner to (hopefully) make it the best day of their lives. If you’re someone who loves that planning process, why not turn it into money in your pocket? You can start your own wedding planning business for just a small investment. 

First, however, you have to go through the planning process for your business. You’ll need knowledge about the process to do so, and it’s your lucky day! This step-by-step guide is chock full of tips and insights to put you on the path to becoming a successful wedding planner.

Step by Step Business values real-life experience above all. Through our  Entrepreneur Spotlight Series , we interview business leaders from diverse industries, providing readers with firsthand insights.

Uncover wedding planning tips in our interview with Epic Elopements’ founder, Amber Sironen-Massey.

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting a wedding planning business has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you.

• Bring Joy to Brides! – Make wedding dreams come true
• Good Money – Get paid 10% to 20% of the total wedding cost
• Flexibility – Run the business from home
• Bridezillas – The wedding day has to be perfect!
• Weekend Work – Long weekend wedding days

Wedding planning industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – The US wedding planning industry is valued at just under $900 million. The industry has decreased annually by 7% per year for the last five years but is still big enough to offer opportunities.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/wedding-planners-united-states/ ))  
• Growth forecast – The global wedding services market, which includes planning, is predicted to grow around 5% yearly through 2030.(( https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/wedding-services-market-A15864 )) 
• Number of businesses – More than 20,000 wedding planners operate in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/wedding-planners-united-states/ ))
• Number of people employed – The industry employs more than 25,000 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/wedding-planners-united-states/ ))

Trends and challenges

Trends in wedding planning include:

• Wedding themes are being influenced by pop culture, including shows like Bridgerton. 
• Weddings are becoming increasingly non-traditional, sometimes with “wear what you want” rules. 
• Unsurprisingly, eco-friendly weddings are trending, with recyclable materials used for as many wedding accoutrements as possible. 

Challenges in the wedding planning industry include:

• In the wake of the pandemic, people are opting for smaller guest lists, reducing fees for wedding planners.
• Many online wedding planning sites have popped up, creating new competition for traditional wedding planners.

What kind of people work as wedding planners?

• Gender – 90% of wedding planners in the US are female, while 10% are male.(( https://www.zippia.com/wedding-planner-jobs/demographics/#gender-statistics ))
• Average level of education – 71% have a bachelor’s degree and 13% hold an associate degree.(( https://www.zippia.com/wedding-planner-jobs/demographics/#degree-level-types ))
• Average age – The average age of a wedding planner is 37 years old.(( https://www.zippia.com/wedding-planner-jobs/demographics/#age-statistics ))

How much does it cost to start a wedding planning business?

Startup costs for a wedding planning business range from $2,000 to $5,000. The largest costs are for a website and an initial marketing budget.

How much can you earn from a wedding planning business?

You can charge between 10% to 20% of the total cost of the wedding, for an average of 15%. The average wedding costs $20,000, so you should earn about $3,000 per wedding. Your expenses will be limited, so you should expect a profit margin of about 90%.

In your first year or two, you could work from home and plan 12 weddings, bringing in $36,000 in annual revenue. This would mean over $32,000 in clear profit, assuming that 90% margin. As you begin to get traction and referrals, that could increase to 40 weddings a year. At this stage, you might hire a staff, reducing your profit margin to 60%. With annual revenue of $120,000, you would make a cool $72,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a wedding planning business. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Having great planning skills
• Facing competition, particularly from online wedding planning services

Related Business Ideas

How to Start an Event Planning Business

How to Open a Wedding Venue

How to Start a Bridal Shop

Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a wedding planning business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research wedding planning businesses in your area to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a wedding planner who handles deliveries to the event.

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as non-traditional weddings.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your services

Make a list of all the tasks that you will handle for the wedding. You might consider making different packages of services at different price points. 

How much should you charge for wedding planning?

Generally, wedding planners are paid 10% to 20% of the total cost of the wedding. Your expenses will be limited to marketing and fuel for travel. You should aim for a profit margin of about 90%. 

Once you know your costs, you can use our profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price point. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will be primarily brides and parents of the bride, which makes it a very broad market. You should spread out your marketing to include sites like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.

Where? Choose your business premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low. But as your business grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers for various roles and may need to rent out an office. Find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Wedding Planning Business Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “wedding planner” or “wedding planning”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Dream Day Planners” over “Vintage Vows Wedding Planning”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that set your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Wedding Planning Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: Highlight the main goals and strategies of your wedding planning business, focusing on offering personalized, comprehensive wedding coordination services.
• Business Overview: Describe your business’s focus on planning and organizing weddings, including venue selection, vendor coordination, and event design.
• Product and Services: Detail the range of services offered, such as full wedding planning, day-of coordination, and consultation services for couples.
• Market Analysis: Assess the demand for wedding planning services, identifying target markets like engaged couples, wedding venues, or event suppliers.
• Competitive Analysis: Compare your services to other local wedding planners, focusing on your unique offerings like specialized themes, personalized service, or budget management.
• Sales and Marketing: Outline your strategy for attracting clients, using methods like bridal shows, social media marketing, or partnerships with wedding vendors.
• Management Team: Highlight the experience and qualifications of your team, especially in event planning, customer service, and vendor relations.
• Operations Plan: Describe the operational process of planning weddings, from initial consultations and concept development to execution on the wedding day.
• Financial Plan: Provide an overview of financial aspects, including startup costs, pricing strategy, and income projections.
• Appendix: Include supplementary documents such as portfolio photos, client testimonials, or vendor agreements to support your business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to wedding planning businesses. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your wedding planning business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just needs to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have. 

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

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Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best options, other than friends and family, for funding a wedding planning business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.  

Step 8: Apply for Licenses/Permits

Starting a wedding planning business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your wedding planning business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as HoneyBook , Aisle Planner , or bloom , to manage bookings, workflows, contracts, and payments.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial. 

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google.

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Social Media Campaigns: Leverage platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to showcase your portfolio, share real wedding stories, and engage with potential clients through visually appealing content.
• Collaborate with Local Vendors: Forge partnerships with local florists, photographers, and catering services, creating a mutually beneficial referral network that enhances your credibility and widens your reach.
• Host Free Workshops or Webinars: Position yourself as an expert by organizing workshops or webinars on wedding planning tips, trends, and budgeting, establishing trust with potential clients and showcasing your expertise.
• Offer Limited-Time Promotions: Create a sense of urgency and attract clients by offering limited-time promotions or discounts for early bookings or bundled services, encouraging couples to secure your services promptly.
• Collect and Showcase Testimonials: Encourage satisfied clients to leave testimonials and reviews, then strategically showcase them on your marketing materials and social media to build trust and credibility with potential clients.
• Targeted Local Advertising: Invest in targeted online and offline advertising in local publications, community boards, or social media groups to specifically reach your target audience in the geographical area you serve.
• Participate in Bridal Shows: Set up a booth at bridal shows to directly engage with couples planning their weddings, offering them a glimpse of your services, and collecting leads for future follow-ups.
• Create a Blog: Share valuable content on a blog related to wedding planning, offering advice, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes insights to establish yourself as an authority in the industry and improve your website’s SEO.
• Utilize Influencer Marketing: Collaborate with local influencers or bloggers in the wedding industry to reach a wider audience and gain credibility through their endorsement of your services.
• Implement a Referral Program: Encourage satisfied clients to refer your services by implementing a referral program, rewarding them for each successful referral, thereby creating a word-of-mouth marketing engine for your business.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your wedding planning business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your wedding planning business could be: 

• Non-traditional weddings to fit your unique style
• Eco-friendly weddings to keep our earth healthy
• Short timeline? The perfect wedding on time, guaranteed

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a wedding planning business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in wedding planning for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in wedding planning. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a wedding planning business include:

• Wedding Assistants – assist with planning, wedding setup
• Delivery Drivers – deliver items to weddings
• Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media, other marketing

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Wedding Planning Business – Start Making Money!

Making a client’s wedding day perfect can be a very rewarding experience. You take care of the details, and let the bride be the star. A wedding planning business can be a very lucrative venture, and as your business grows you can make some good money. You could even have a whole team working for you while you handle the high-level details and supervise the events from the rehearsal dinner to the wedding day and the next day brunch.

Now you’re prepared, so you can put your plans into action and get ready to launch your wedding planning adventure!

• Wedding Planning Business FAQs

Yes, a wedding planning business can be profitable. You’ll need to market yourself before you start to make money, but once you get some traction, you’ll have very few expenses so most of the money you make will stay in your pocket.

Generally, wedding planners charge between 10% to 20% of the total cost of the wedding. If you charge an average of 15%, for a $20,000 wedding, you’ll make $3,000.

To stay organized and manage multiple weddings simultaneously, create a detailed timeline and checklist for each event, and use project management tools and software to track progress and deadlines. Communicate clearly with clients, vendors, and staff, and delegate tasks effectively to ensure that everyone is working towards the same goal.

The key skills and qualities needed to become a successful wedding planner include excellent communication and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, creativity , problem-solving skills, time management, and the ability to work under pressure.

To differentiate your wedding planning business from competitors in the market, focus on developing a unique brand identity and marketing strategy that highlights your strengths and values. Offer personalized and customized services that cater to the specific needs and preferences of each client, and provide exceptional customer service and support throughout the planning process. 

Yes, you can start a wedding planning business on the side by identifying your target market, developing a service offering and pricing strategy, and creating a strong online presence. Build a portfolio of work samples and showcase your expertise through online marketing and networking. Ensure that you can balance your time and resources effectively between your full-time job and your side business, and consider hiring assistants or coordinators to help with the workload.

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Wedding Planning Business Name
• Create a Wedding Planning Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Licenses/Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Wedding Planning Business - Start Making Money!

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Wedding Venue Essentials

If you’re thinking about starting a wedding venue business, the most important first step is taking off those rose-colored glasses. Running a wedding venue company is more than a labor of love, and far more challenging than you may think. It takes grit, honesty, and resources — not unlike the institution of marriage itself.  

Read on to learn the 11 essential first steps to take before opening a wedding venue, and get answers to top questions about the process.

Discover how to start a wedding venue business in a few simple steps:

Step 1: ask yourself the hard questions.

Don’t rush into starting a wedding venue business. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, 20% of small businesses fail within the first year , and only about 50% of them stay in business past five years.

You need to be prepared for the bumps and roadblocks that come with running a small business and realistic about your capacity to manage these challenges. Here’s what to ask yourself before you start hashing out your wedding venue business plan :

• Can you afford the financial risk? Because of the data shared above, it’s essential you’re prepared for the possibility that the business goes under and you lose your investment.
• Are you prepared for a busy schedule that includes weekend work? Typically, weddings take place in the evenings and on the weekends. Hopefully, you will have backup to help you manage, but be prepared to be busy when most people are kicking back. 
• Is the timing right? We all go through challenging life phases, and opening a wedding venue business (or any business) is a definite stressor. Try to minimize the other stressors in your life as much as possible before diving into the small-business life.
• Can you open the business and keep your day job? This approach will definitely require a business partner or partners who can share the responsibilities of running the venue. Have enough backup so you can manage the new venture without dropping the ball at your day job. It will provide a sense of security to start because you are launching your business with a safety net.
• After asking the above questions, are you still excited about the prospect of opening a wedding venue business? It takes a lot of passion and energy to run a venue; if imagining your business in full swing makes you happy, then you are probably ready.

Step 2: Research the event venue market in your area

What is the demand for wedding venues in your region? Every business needs a market to be successful. You have to do your research and some legwork to make sure you are opening a wedding venue business that will draw customers. Here are the essentials to research and explore:

• Wedding venues in your geographic area. Look up wedding venues in your region. Are there scores of popular wedding venues already? You will have to have a specific offering that makes your venue special. Is your venue a lakefront property in a lake region? How many other lakefront wedding sites are there? Are those venues booked solid, so there’s overflow demand?  
• Online reviews of competitor venues. There is a treasure trove of information about competitive venues in the reviews on sites such as Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google. Read them carefully and go back in time. Look for consistent complaints and chronic problems, such as lackluster menus or inexperienced staff. Can you fill in the gaps where those venues fall short?
• Talk to people you know about competitor venues and visit them yourself. Message friends and family to see if anyone has firsthand experience of competitive venues. Also, many sites include restaurants and cafes for the public. Visit several times in the evenings and on weekends. You will get an idea of the overall operation, and you may even see the arrival of guests for an event.
• What is the population density of your region? What are the age demographics? Of course, people of all ages get married and throw parties. But most people across the U.S. get married in their late 20s or early 30s. Additionally, you’ll need a density of population that supports your venue (and any other popular venues in the area). Unless your venue has a spectacular setting or special features that will attract people from across the state and country, avoid areas with a sparse or aging population.

Let us help you attract more wedding business!

Step 3: Write your wedding venue business plan

Open business, book clients, make money. Repeat.

If only writing a business plan were that easy. No matter how straightforward your business is, you need to write a brief but detailed plan. This document will serve as a guideline for you and your team, as well as marketing for investors and partnerships you may be seeking.

The good news: You’re well on your way if you’ve done the market research above. The U.S. Small Business Administration has a helpful guide to writing business plans . Here’s how it would look for a wedding venue business: 

• Summary: Think of this as the “About” section of a business website. Describe your business niche and what makes your business unique. Include your passion for running a wedding venue.
• Market: Share the market value you determined in your research.
• Your business organization: Are you the sole owner of the business? Do you have one partner or several? Are you a limited liability company (LLC)? How many permanent and temporary employees will you have? Will you have an onsite, fully staffed catering offering? Or will you provide a fully equipped kitchen that catering vendors can use? 
• Your timeline: When will you build/renovate the venue? When do you plan to do a soft open? When will you be fully open for business?
• Marketing plan: How do you plan to get the word out about your business? Get specific. How? Check out Step 8 below for a detailed look at building your marketing strategy.
• Business projections: What are your financial and growth goals? Do you plan to open other venue sites?  

Step 4: Figure out your finances

Opening a wedding venue is an investment, but the size of that investment depends on many factors.

Are you building a facility from the ground up or renovating an existing building? Is the venue located in a rural area with low taxes and low real estate prices or in a city with high taxes and high real estate prices? Does the venue feature extensive grounds that require tending? Are you buying an existing wedding venue? Or are you leasing the property?

Clarify how much (if any) of your own money you are willing to use for a down payment. Will you have business partners contributing to the funding? What type of financing are you looking to use? Possibilities include:

• Traditional bank business loan.
• U.S. Small Business Administration loan.
• Business line of credit.
• Equipment financing.
• Short-term business loan.

Clearly, you want to avoid endangering personal assets or emptying your retirement savings account. Talk with trusted family, friends, and financial advisers about realistic personal investments and safe business loans.

Step 5: Choose your wedding venue location

Perhaps you have a barn on a rural property you already own and want to convert it into a wedding venue — a highly popular setting for weddings! Or you may be interested in opening a venue but haven’t selected the location yet. Perhaps you have your eye on an existing venue that’s for sale.

Before you start building your business, you have to find a location. Start exploring properties or land based on your business capital. If your funding is low, consider leasing a property before buying — you can invest the profits in the permanent facility. If you have abundant funding, you may be able to build a brand-new facility.

Now is when you’ll decide how much to provide onsite. Perhaps you want to have a caterer use your kitchen facility, rather than manage event catering yourself. You could scale back even further and offer space for food trucks near a large wood pavilion with a gorgeous view. Will couples need to rent their tables and chairs from a supplier, or will you provide them? If you offer tables onsite, know you’ll need storage space for them in case the couple prefers a different style of table and decides to rent.

Step 6: Create and register a catchy wedding venue business name

Create a unique, appealing, and memorable name for your new business. When coming up with wedding venue name ideas , the options should evoke the style of weddings and clients you hope to attract to your venue. A stately and sophisticated venue calls for a refined name that makes people think of elegant galas and white-glove service (think Rushing River Estates, Sterling Lakeside Manor, Sleepy Hollow Banquets). A rustic and laid-back venue should call to mind joyful times minus any stuffed shirts (e.g. Bear Den Inn, Ivy Lane Lodge, Aspen Farms).

Step 7: Refine what makes your wedding venue special

Why will couples clamor to book your venue? What will have them set the date and reach out to you immediately? This is your unique value proposition. Some possibilities include:

• A one-of-a-kind view.
• A pastoral landscape and grounds.
• Outstanding menu options.
• Sophisticated décor and stunning details.
• A historic property.
• Rustic charm.

Other selling points are pretty surroundings at an affordable price, proximity to an airport (for out-of-town visitors), and all-inclusive capacity, such as tables, chairs, table settings, décor, tents, catering, and flowers, so couples won’t have to worry about hiring multiple vendors. Whatever the unique value of your venue, make sure you continue to refine and improve upon it after your business opens.

Step 8: Launch your venue marketing strategy

Your wedding venue marketing strategy is how you get the word out about your venue’s exceptional setting, décor, and food. It makes you easy to find and builds word of mouth. Here’s what your venue marketing strategy should include:

• Hire a photographer. You need beautiful pictures of the space to share across multiple channels. Before opening, set up your venue for a wedding and get glamour shots from every vantage point.
• Put your property on wedding venue sourcing sites. Couples visit sourcing sites such as Wedding Spot and the Cvent Supplier Network . You’ll add details such as your location, the venue style, and guest capacity. You’ll also include your unique service offerings, such as catering, included amenities, wedding ceremony space, parking capacity, and a link to your website.
• Design your website. With services such as Wix and Squarespace, it’s easier than ever for any business to build a wedding venue website . Use those beautiful photographs and include all the details that make your venue special. Write appealing copy that includes keywords that people will likely search to find wedding venues in your area. In other words, if you are opening a rustic barn wedding venue, make sure your website includes those exact words. If you find the process challenging, reach out for help from tech-savvy friends and family, or hire a freelance website designer to help you build the site. As you get reviews from happy couples and permission to share their wedding pictures, you’ll be able to add galleries and quotes.
• Create your social media accounts and handles. Usually, your handle will be the name of your venue, but watch for the formation of unwanted words when you squish the name together! For wedding venues, the most important sites are Instagram and Facebook. Establish social accounts before opening so you can build interest and attract bookings. 
• Advertise in local magazines. Though most information is online today, couples will flip through magazines that advertise local businesses while they wait at the doctor’s office or while trying on wedding dresses. Make sure your beautiful venue is among the listings in wedding-specific publications, as well as planner- and luxury-focused magazines such as Cvent Meetings .
• Watch for online reviews after you open. Keep an eye on review sites such as Yelp and Google Reviews. Respond to both positive and negative reviews promptly. With positive reviews, try an authentic “Thank you! We’re so glad we helped make your wedding a special experience!” For negative reviews, apologize sincerely and ask that they reach out to you offline to understand their complaint better. Listen with an open mind; often, being heard is what people want the most.

For more ideas on attracting planners and couples, check out The Venue’s Guide to Booking Wedding Event Business  and our blog post detailing What Couples Want From a Wedding Venue .

Step 9: Zoning laws, licenses, and insurance

This isn’t exactly what pops to mind when people dream of opening a business, but getting insurance coverage and all the necessary permits and licenses helps make your dream a reality.

Every local municipality and state has different requirements regarding business operations licenses, and they vary based on your business type. Head to your town’s municipal offices and share your plans for your business — they should be able to give you a clear rundown of the codes and permit requirements. These may include:

• Building permits.
• Business license.
• Certificate of occupancy.
• Liquor license.
• Food handler’s permits.

For those opening a barn wedding venue, local zoning laws can be a bit dicey. Many barn sites are typically zoned for agriculture, rather than business, and often require individual variances. With your permits and licenses in order, you won’t get unwelcome attention from officials or risk a shutdown on the day of a scheduled wedding.

As for insurance, don’t begin construction, train your staff, or open your doors for business without coverage. You may need:

• Commercial property insurance.
• General liability insurance.
• Workers’ compensation insurance.

You must also make sure couples and vendors have their own event liability insurance in case they cause property damage. Always request proof of this coverage.

Step 10: Select an event management system

You and your team need to stay organized and on the same page to run a wedding venue successfully. Event management software is an invaluable tool for venue teams. You can detail the size and scope of incoming events, store contact information for your top vendor partners, manage guest seating, and track special requests.

The best event planning tools allow you to collaborate with wedding planners on table layouts. You’ll be able to share optimal banquet floor plans , seating charts, and special dietary requests, as well as monitor any changes the planners make. If they add a configuration that doesn’t work for the space, you can let them know immediately.

The system will then be the guide for the wedding reception, ensuring a streamlined guest arrival, seating, and meal service.

Step 11: Hire and train a friendly and detail-focused staff

You can’t run a wedding venue by yourself. You’re going to need to hire an outstanding staff to help you make these special days extra special. The size of your team will vary, depending on the scope of your venue. A barn venue that depends on food trucks for catering, for example, will not have nearly the same staffing requirements as an all-inclusive wedding venue. Here are job roles you may need to fill:

• Venue coordinator. This is the person who coordinates with wedding planners, couples, and vendors in the runup to the big day. In the early days of your business, this will likely be you. If you expand your venue business to include more properties, however, others will have to take on this role.
• Maitre d’ or event captain. This is the front-of-house person on the wedding day. They will interact with the couple and their guests and coordinate with the back of the house to keep the event running smoothly and the newlyweds happy.
• Kitchen staff. This includes the head chef, who designs the menu; the line chefs, or cooks who help the head chef prepare the food; and food-prep cooks who clean, chop, and prepare the food for cooking.
• Servers. These key employees serve guests their food, either at the buffet table or during table service. They also deliver drinks, cocktails, coffee, tea, and water to guests.
• Bartender. This staff member makes drinks for guests at the bar and for the servers to deliver.
• Coat check attendant. If you offer this service, you’ll need someone who takes coats and gives coat-check tickets to guests at the beginning of the event, and then returns coats at the end of the night.

These workers may or may not be employees of your business, depending on how busy you are. If you plan to use temporary workers, research reputable agencies in your area, because these employees play an essential role in the success of a wedding and your business.

The next step on the list? Booking dates for your venue and hosting your first wedding! When you follow the above steps, you should be ready for the big day and avoid unwelcome surprises.

Now you’re ready to begin your wedding venue business!

Learn how Wedding Spot can help you attract couples who are planning their own weddings. Then, check out Social Tables’ Event Services Solution to streamline your wedding venue business. Or get up to speed on exactly what event planners look for in a venue — so you can meet and exceed their expectations.

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Wedding Planning Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Wedding Planning Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Wedding Planning business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Wedding Planning businesses.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Wedding Planning business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Elegant Weddings is a wedding planning company founded by Carrie Goode in 2023. It is located in Milford, Massachusetts and the company primarily plans weddings for couples who want a luxurious wedding. Carrie has been a wedding planner since 1999 and uses her decades of experience to offer the most prestigious, elegant surroundings and wedding services available within Massachusetts. Carrie is highly-skilled at communicating extensively with wedding couples, assisting in making selections based on those communications, and recommending the best of every vendor for select weddings.

When Carrie opened her business, she recruited from her former colleague, an assistant wedding planner, Danielle Woods, to support the efforts of the company in meeting the needs of Gen Z couples and those who are looking for “less than traditional” ceremonies and settings. Danielle has ten years of experience and enjoys providing wedding plans that cover every item wedding couples want.

Product Offering

The following are the services that Elegant Weddings will provide:

• Introduction luncheon with wedding planner and couple
• Pre-wedding scheduling and calendar-setting
• Pre-wedding vendor event with selections and tastings
• Pre-wedding honeymoon planning
• Wedding Day and Reception management, coverage and 24/7 attendance
• Post-wedding consultation and luncheon with couple
• Day-to-day management of the wedding and reception processes

Customer Focus

Elegant Weddings will target clients who are considering a wedding or are already planning a wedding. Elegant Weddings will also target couples who are engaged, but have not yet confirmed a season or date for marriage. Secondary targets will include couples who aren’t engaged, but who are considering possibly becoming engaged and marrying. Also, the parents and friends of engaged couples within the Massachusetts region will be targeted.

Management Team

Carrie Goode holds a master’s degree in business development and has been employed as a wedding consultant for over 20 years. Her experience as a wedding planner has earned her hundreds of clients and, as a result, hundreds of recommendations by former clients to engaged couples who are beginning to plan weddings.

Carrie Goode, president of Elegant Weddings, left her former place of employment in 2022 to begin building her idea for her own company, which is scheduled to open in 2023. She recruited a former associate, Danielle Woods, also a wedding planner, to join her in the new company. Danielle will support Carrie in her business while she grows her own clientele base with her new title of Senior Wedding Planner.

In addition to the above, Janice Parker has joined the company as the Office Manager, assisting with onboarding wedding coordinators and vendors who partner with the company. She will handle phone calls, social media, website updates and other administrative tasks.

Success Factors

Elegant Weddings will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Friendly, knowledgeable, and highly-qualified team of Elegant Weddings.
• A minimum of two private luncheons: initially with engaged couples to determine needs and wants and, second, to analyze at a post-wedding luncheon
• Thorough and extensive attention offered to details determined by wedding couples.
• Wedding software for exclusive use of the wedding party, parents and planner.
• Guaranteed vendor experiences for clients (or refunds are issued).
• Elegant Weddings offers the best pricing in the “luxury” category of weddings. Their pricing structure is the most cost-effective when compared to the competition.

Financial Highlights

Elegant Weddings is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its company. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and marketing costs. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Office space build-out: $20,000
• Office equipment, supplies, and materials: $10,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $150,000
• Marketing costs: $10,000
• Working capital: $10,000

The following graph outlines the financial projections for Elegant Weddings.

Company Overview

Who is “elegant weddings”.

Elegant Weddings is a newly established, full-service wedding planning business based in Milford, Massachusetts. Elegant Weddings will be the most prestigious, communicative and luxury-oriented wedding planner choice for engaged couples in Massachusetts. Elegant Weddings will provide a comprehensive menu of wedding planning services for any engaged couple to utilize. Their full-service approach includes a pre-wedding, private luncheon with the wedding planner and a post-wedding wrap-up luncheon with their wedding planner.

  Elegant Weddings will be able to plan and prepare for luxurious and elegant weddings to suit all couples. The team of professionals are highly qualified and experienced in luxury weddings and in the most capable and efficient vendors. Elegant Weddings removes all headaches and issues of the wedding and reception and ensures all issues are taken care of expeditiously while delivering the best client service. In addition, if a guaranteed and vetted vendor fails to perform to expectations, refunds are given to the wedding couple.

Elegant Weddings History

Elegant Weddings is owned by Carrie Goode, who is the president of the new company. She has been a wedding planner since 1999 and, while employed formerly in the industry, consulted with hundreds of engaged couples who thought so highly of her services that they recommended her to several hundred additional engaged couples. Carrie is known throughout the east coast as an exemplary wedding planner who brings true “luxury” to the “luxury wedding sector of the industry.” Carrie has recruited former associates, Danielle Woods, to the be Senior Wedding Planner and Janice Parker to be the Office Manager.

Elegant Weddings is founded on the concept that all weddings should include at least a touch of elegance to mark the symbolism of a wedding. This may mean the wedding planner includes a few touches of distinctive beauty to a wedding, or if the engaged couple chooses, the planner can include something whimsical or of special note to the engaged couple, as long as the items add to the “elegance” of the ceremony itself. This practice has built successfully over the years into the development of the concept for Elegant Weddings.

Since incorporation, Elegant Weddings has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered Elegant Weddings, LLC to transact business in the state of Massachusetts.
• Has a contract in place for a 10,000 square foot office at one of the midtown buildings
• Reached out to numerous contacts to include Elegant Weddings in their portfolios.
• Began recruiting a staff of three and two office personnel to work at Elegant Weddings

Elegant Weddings Services

The following will be the services Elegant Weddings will provide:

• Day to day management of the wedding and reception processes

Industry Analysis

The wedding planning industry is expected to grow over the next five years to over $1.6 billion. This growth and increase in the market is based on the east coast region of the U.S., where wedding planners are traditionally employed for all weddings, versus the west coast, where more weddings are viewed as casual affairs to be conducted informally and without a typical reception. The growth has more heavily been in the “luxurious” or “elegant” wedding categories, as those who opt for weddings choose to have memorable and large wedding experiences overall.

Costs will likely be reduced as innovation continues to create more convenience and comfort for the engaged couples, including reservations for honeymoon adventures, software that tracks wedding gift receipts, 3D printing that assists in creating unique invitations, and other inventive touches.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market, customer segmentation.

Elegant Weddings will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Engaged couples with a wedding date
• Engaged couples who do not yet have a season or date
• Couples who are not engaged, but are considering marriage
• Parents of engaged couples who are seeking professional counsel

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Elegant Weddings will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

Cherished Moments

Cherished Moments is an established wedding planning company founded in 2010 by Bridgette Inqvist and Lars Solene. Bridgette and Lars were wedding consultants with a national chain bridal store for over ten years when they formed Cherished Moments as a wedding planning company focused on “partial wedding planning.” A partial wedding planner assists with certain elements of the wedding that are especially crucial to the clients, such as the venue selection, vendor coordination, or design and decor. These areas are visible to guests and make or break the wedding overall and, as such, many engaged couples want help in these areas only while they handle the remaining wedding details.

Cherished Moments provides partial wedding planning with event venue selections and design and decor elements of any wedding, including outdoor and themed weddings. Bridgette and Lars do not conduct pre-wedding consultations, preferring to communicate via online conversations and they have engaged couples complete thorough instruction lists for their services that list everything needed or wanted on paper.

Backyard Wedding Planners

Billie Seevers and Jonnie Taylor formed their company, Backyard Wedding Planners, after each had an informal backyard wedding in 2020 and 2021. Their experiences led to conversations and a partnership that focuses strictly on fun, informal backyard weddings. This may mean the wedding couple serves a barbecue meal from the grill or the meal is served by a fast food delivery truck. Events usually include outdoor games for the guests, group singing (with guitar) and informal dancing on the lawn.

The premise of Backyard Wedding Planners is that formal weddings are too difficult and expensive; weddings should be reminiscent of a backyard gathering that is fun. Couples choose from a variety of decor options and settings and vendors are offered for the elements of the wedding that couples choose. The company currently has two employees, Billie and Jonnie.

Destination Dream Weddings

Pat Roberson and Clint Dory formed Destination Dream Weddings while employed as travel agents in 2009. Together they created a format for wedding planning that includes everything destination weddings might require. This means health insurance for the bride and groom are included (in the event of food poisoning, etc), hotels are fully vetted by Destination Dream Weddings, fees are prepaid and costs are set and guaranteed. Destination Dream Weddings often include the wedding parents, grandparents, siblings and friends of the wedding couple, which leads to large-scale planning of multiple people traveling from various points to the destination. Planning is key for Destination Dream Weddings. Pat and Clint have hired one office manager to oversee communication; however, most of their planning services are conducted online and via email communication. They do not travel to the wedding destinations as a rule.

Competitive Advantage

Elegant Weddings will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Elegant Weddings will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Highly-qualified team of skilled employees who offer personal, detailed planning with wedding couples from pre-wedding parties through to the end of the reception.
• Private luncheons before and after the wedding with the wedding planner.
• Guaranteed results from preferred vendors or money is refunded by Elegant Weddings.
• Wedding software for exclusive use of the engaged couple, parents and planner.
• Unbeatable pricing for their clients in the “luxury wedding” category.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Elegant Weddings is as follows:

Word of Mouth/Referrals

Elegant Weddings has built up an extensive list of contacts over the years by providing exceptional service and expertise to their previous clients. Their contacts and clients will follow them to their new company and help spread the word of Elegant Weddings.

Professional Associations and Networking

Networking will take place at industry events, bridal fairs, personal meetings, and professionally-associated organizations. Private events for parents and selected referrals will be hosted by Elegant Weddings.

Print Advertising

Direct mail pieces will be sent to attendees of bridal fairs and other industry events. Special offers will be given in the direct mail pieces when engaged couples meet with Elegant Wedding planners.

Website/SEO Marketing

Elegant Weddings will fully utilize their website. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all the services that Elegant Weddings provides. The website will also list their contact information and offer sample photos of elegant weddings and wedding couples. The website will engage in SEO marketing tactics so that anytime someone types in the Google or Bing search engine “wedding planning company” or “luxury weddings near me,” Elegant Weddings will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of Elegant Weddings will be on the high end of the wedding planning industry; however, it will be on par with competitors so customers feel they receive excellent value when purchasing their services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Elegant Weddings. Operation Functions:

• Carrie Goode will be the owner and President of the company. She will oversee all business development and manage client relations. Carrie has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
• Danielle Woods will become the Senior Wedding Planner and oversee staff, handle phone calls and social media.
• Janice Parker will also join the staff as the Office Manager, overseeing all scheduling, calendar events and tracking engaged couples through the process of planning. She will onboard new employees, as well.

Milestones:

Elegant Weddings will have the following milestones completed in the next six months.

• 5/1/202X – Finalize contract to lease office space
• 5/15/202X – Finalize personnel and staff employment contracts for the Elegant Weddings
• 6/1/202X – Finalize contracts for Elegant Weddings clients
• 6/15/202X – Begin networking at industry events
• 6/22/202X – Begin moving into Elegant Weddings office
• 7/1/202X – Elegant Weddings opens its doors for business

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Elegant Weddings are the fees they will charge to clients for their services.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff Elegant Weddings. The expenses will be the payroll cost, rent, utilities, office supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Number of clients per Month: 20
• Average revenue per Month: $27,500.
• Office Lease per Year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, wedding planning business plan faqs, what is a wedding planning business plan.

A wedding planning business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your wedding planning business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Wedding Planning business plan using our Wedding Planning Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Wedding Planning Businesses? 

There are a number of different kinds of wedding planning businesses , some examples include: Traditional, Extreme wedding planning, Destination, Luxury, and Budget-saving wedding planning.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Wedding Planning Business Plan?

Wedding Planning businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start a Wedding Planning Business?

Starting a wedding planning business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

• Develop A Wedding Planning Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed wedding planning business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  
• Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your wedding planning business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your wedding planning business is in compliance with local laws.
• Register Your Wedding Planning Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your wedding planning business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 
• Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your wedding planning business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 
• Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 
• Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 
• Acquire Necessary Wedding Planning Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your wedding planning business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 
• Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your wedding planning business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful wedding planning business:

• How to Start a Wedding Planning Business

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How to start a wedding planning business

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Whether you’re starting afresh with a career change or utilising heaps of existing skills and experience, starting a wedding planning business is relatively low cost and can be financially rewarding if you do it right. The average cost of a wedding in the UK (2021) is currently at £30,000 and there are huge markets for easing that inevitable stress on couples. We’ve revealed our greatest tips on how to start a wedding planning business to see you on your way!

Why Sustainability Is Crucial For Upcoming E-Commerce Businesses

Optimizing your qsr for the digital age, how seos can thrive in the age of zero-click searches, decide on your offering.

It’s important to decide from the offset whether you’d like to provide a full wedding planning service that includes everything from venue finding to napkin choices, or whether you’re particularly skilled or experienced in one or a few key elements of wedding planning and would like to focus on those. Are you up for sourcing a seamstress or a florist or a cakemaker, or are you a project management pro who can keep everybody in line?

Utilise those handy tricks and relationships

If you have existing experience in wedding planning (if you don’t you should probably get some training at this stage…) think about the relationships that you can utilise in your new venture. Perhaps there are some great suppliers that you’ve worked with in the past, or some tricks you’ve learned along the way.

Plan how to promote yourself

It’s important to have some idea of how you intend to source business before you begin. How will people know you exist? Then, why should they choose you? Being able to market yourself is an important part of starting any business, but remember – this is (probably) the most important day so far for your couples and trust is imperative.

Plus, when you’re planning your costs, you’ll need to include your marketing. Do you need a website ? Can you do this yourself? Do you have photography from weddings you’ve managed in the past? How are your clients going to find you – do you need social media profiles, an SEO strategy, advertising budget?

Standard process

There are some things that apply whatever kind of wedding you’re planning, for example what you and your couples need to know from a venue (corkage, parking, décor or music restrictions, licensing etc). Standardise these processes for yourself with a list of questions to ask a wedding venue, recommended alcohol quantities or your preferred suppliers.

Get insured

All businesses should have the right insurance and, as we know, when it comes to live events things can often crop up. Consider the type(s) of business insurance that you need:

• Public liability coverage : Property damage or injury cover
• Employers’ liability coverage : If any of your employees become unwell or injured
• Professional indemnity cover : For if somebody loses money as a result of your service(s) or advice
• Business and office equipment coverage: Covers your work equipment (you may often have your laptop on-the-go!)
• Legal expenses : Support for any future legal costs
• Personal accident: In case you get injured at work

Rates and packages

Wedding planners tend to receive a commission of between 10 and 15% of the total wedding budget in the UK, whilst fix fees may be applied for large-scale events. Explore your local markets to identify your competition, what they do, what they charge and figure out how you want to charge.

You can also work out standard package offerings as well as bespoke wedding planning, to include the common essentials like venue finding, price negotiation, project management, supplier sourcing or on-the-day support.

Implement your own stress management strategies

We all know that planning a wedding can be one of the most stressful things a couple will do – and in taking on their wedding, you’re taking on that stress, too. If you’re already a wedding planner, you may have great strategies in place for managing those hiccups but when it’s your own business in the mix, too, you’ve got a recipe for stress! Starting any business is stressful and can be financially demanding, so be sure to think about how you’ll manage these worries alongside being responsible for people’s weddings.

Get out there

If you’re a seasoned wedding planner, you probably have a little black book of wonderful suppliers that you can call upon to support your new business. Ensure that you have enough to be able to recommend to your couples in the event that your #1 florist is working on another event that day, on holiday or unwell. Whilst you might feel particularly confident with suppliers that you’ve worked with in the past, it’s always a good time to expand your network.

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How to Start a Profitable Bridal Business [11 Steps]

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 05, 2024

Business Steps:

1. perform market analysis., 2. draft a bridal business plan., 3. develop a bridal brand., 4. formalize your business registration., 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for bridal., 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for bridal services., 8. acquire bridal equipment and supplies., 9. obtain business insurance for bridal, if required., 10. begin marketing your bridal services., 11. expand your bridal business..

Embarking on a bridal business venture requires a thorough understanding of the market landscape. A comprehensive market analysis will spotlight opportunities, identify the competition, and reveal customer preferences. Follow these steps to ensure your market analysis lays a strong foundation for your bridal business success:

• Research the current bridal market trends, including popular styles, fabrics, and designs to understand what brides are looking for.
• Analyze your competitors by visiting their stores, reviewing their product offerings, and understanding their pricing strategies.
• Identify your target demographic by considering factors like age, income level, and wedding budget to tailor your offerings to their needs.
• Examine the location where you plan to set up your business to ensure there's a demand for bridal services and enough foot traffic.
• Attend bridal shows and industry events to network with suppliers and get insights into emerging trends and customer preferences.
• Gather feedback from recently married individuals to learn about their experiences and what they wished for during their bridal shopping.
• Utilize social media and online forums to understand the discussions and questions potential customers have about bridal wear and services.

Are bridal businesses profitable?

Bridal businesses can be profitable depending on the type of products and services offered, the location of the business, and how well the business is managed. Successful bridal businesses often focus on providing specialized services and providing a unique shopping experience for customers.

Starting a bridal business requires careful planning and a solid business plan to ensure success. Your plan should outline your vision for the business, describe your target market, and detail the strategies you will use to reach your goals. Here are key elements to consider when drafting your bridal business plan:

• Executive Summary: Briefly describe your business, the market needs it will fulfill, and your strategies for success.
• Company Description: Provide information on the business, including location, the types of bridal services and products offered, and your unique selling proposition.
• Market Analysis: Research the bridal industry, identify your target market, and analyze your competitors to position your business effectively.
• Organization and Management: Outline your business structure, the roles of the founding team, and the operational workflow.
• Services and Products: Describe the bridal wear, accessories, and services you will offer, and explain how they meet the needs of your customers.
• Marketing and Sales Strategy: Explain how you intend to attract and retain customers, including your pricing, advertising, and promotional plans.
• Funding Request: If seeking financing, specify the amount needed and how it will be used.
• Financial Projections: Provide an overview of projected revenue, expenses, and profitability over the next 3-5 years.

How does a bridal business make money?

A bridal business typically makes money through the sale of wedding related items such as gowns, accessories, and decorations. They may also offer services such as event planning and catering. An example of a target audience for a bridal business could be engaged couples looking to find the perfect venue, gown and other items for their wedding. In addition, bridal boutiques are great sources of information for those DIY couples looking to craft the perfect ceremony and reception on a budget. Finally, a bridal business could also target mothers of the bride and groom for finding the perfect fashion accessories for their children's special day.

Embarking on the journey to create a bridal brand is both an exciting and intricate endeavor. It involves carving out a unique identity within the bridal industry that resonates with your target clientele. Here are some pivotal steps to guide you through the process:

• Define Your Brand Identity: Determine the core values, mission, and personality of your brand. This will form the foundation of your brand's image and messaging.
• Identify Your Target Audience: Understand who your customers are, what they value, and what bridal styles they are drawn to. Tailor your brand to meet these specific needs and preferences.
• Develop a Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Clearly articulate what sets your brand apart from others. Whether it's a particular style, customization service, or a unique experience, your USP should be compelling and memorable.
• Create a Cohesive Visual Identity: Design a logo, select a color palette, and choose typography that aligns with your brand's aesthetic. Consistency across all platforms and materials is key.
• Build a Strong Online Presence: Develop a professional website and engage on social media platforms where your target audience is active. Showcase your collections, customer testimonials, and the essence of your brand story.
• Establish Brand Partnerships: Collaborate with other wedding industry professionals and vendors to expand your reach and build credibility.

How to come up with a name for your bridal business?

Coming up with the perfect name for your bridal business can be tricky. Exploring your creativity and considering the personality of your business are both important. Brainstorm possible words or phrases that capture the essence of your business, perhaps by evoking an emotion or a memorable experience. Also consider the type of clients you expect to serve and the services you plan to offer. Once you've compiled a list of potential names, ask trusted friends, family, and colleagues for their feedback—they may come up with ideas that hadn't occurred to you!

Once you've crafted a business plan, chosen a name, and secured your finances, it's time to make your bridal business official by registering it. This step will provide legal protection, establish your business identity, and help you to operate within the law. Below are key points to guide you through the process of formalizing your business registration:

• Choose your business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation) based on your needs for liability protection and tax considerations.
• Register your business name with the appropriate state authorities to ensure it's unique and not already in use.
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes, even if you don't plan to have employees immediately.
• Apply for any necessary licenses and permits specific to your location and industry, such as a business operation license or a resale permit.
• Register for state taxes if applicable, including sales tax and unemployment insurance.
• Review local zoning laws to confirm that you can legally operate your business in your chosen location.
• Consider trademarking your business name or logo for additional legal protection of your brand.

Resources to help get you started:

Unlock invaluable insights for your bridal business with key resources providing market trends, operational best practices, and growth strategies:

• Bridal Buyer Magazine: Offers the latest news, trends, and business advice for bridal retailers worldwide. Visit Bridal Buyer
• The Knot Worldwide Pro Blog: Features expert advice on marketing, sales, and industry trends for wedding professionals. Visit The Knot Pro Blog
• WeddingPro Report: An annual report by The Knot Worldwide providing insights on wedding industry trends, based on comprehensive surveys and research. Download the WeddingPro Report
• Wedding Market News and Insights by WeddingWire: Delivers news, trends, and marketing tips to help grow your bridal business. Visit Wedding Market Insights
• Vows Magazine: Focuses on bridal retailer success with articles on market trends, merchandising strategies, and retailer profiles. Visit Vows Magazine
• Bridal Guide Magazine's Retailer Resource: Provides bridal consultants and retailers with selling tools, fashion updates, and marketplace trends. Visit Bridal Guide

Starting a bridal business involves navigating various legal requirements to ensure your operations are legitimate and compliant. It's essential to obtain the correct licenses and permits to avoid any legal issues and build trust with your customers. Here's a guide to help you with the process:

• Business License: Apply for a general business license with your city or county clerk's office, as this is the primary permit that allows you to operate a business in your location.
• Resale Permit: If you plan to sell bridal gowns and accessories, you'll need a resale permit to buy wholesale and sell retail without paying sales tax on the merchandise.
• Employer Identification Number (EIN): Register for an EIN with the IRS, especially if you plan to hire employees. This number is also useful for tax purposes and when opening a business bank account.
• Health and Safety Permits: If your bridal business will include services like makeup or hairdressing, check with your local health department to secure any necessary health and safety permits.
• Signage Permit: Some local governments require a permit for business signs, so check with your municipal planning department to comply with local ordinances.
• Zoning and Land Use Permits: Ensure your business location is zoned for retail use, and obtain any required land use permits to operate your bridal shop.

What licenses and permits are needed to run a bridal business?

In order to run a bridal business, you will likely need to obtain a general business license from your local government, as well as any other necessary permits or licenses that may be legally required for the type of business you intend to operate. Depending on your location and what services you provide, you may also need to obtain licenses specific to the bridal industry, such as a florist license, retail license, or beauty/barber shop license if you plan on providing wedding-related services like floral design, gowns and dresses, hairstyling, manicures/pedicures, etc.

Starting a bridal business not only requires a creative touch and a passion for romance, but also necessitates a solid foundation for financial management and stability. Opening a business bank account and securing funding are crucial steps to ensure smooth operations and the potential for growth. Below are key points to consider in this process:

• Choose the right bank: Research banks that offer business banking services with favorable terms for small businesses, such as low fees, online banking, and good customer support.
• Prepare documentation: Gather all necessary documents such as your business license, EIN, and any partnership agreements to open your business bank account.
• Separate finances: Keeping your business and personal finances separate is essential for tax purposes and professionalism.
• Explore funding options: Determine how much funding you will need to start and grow your business. Options may include personal savings, small business loans, angel investors, or crowdfunding campaigns.
• Develop a financial plan: Create a detailed business plan that outlines your financial projections, including expenses and anticipated revenue, to present to potential lenders or investors.
• Understand the terms: Carefully review the terms and conditions of any funding you accept, ensuring you are fully aware of repayment schedules, interest rates, and any potential equity you are giving up.

Setting the right prices for your bridal services is crucial to the success of your bridal business. It ensures profitability while remaining competitive and appealing to your target market. Here's a guide to help you establish your pricing strategy:

• Cost Analysis: Calculate the total costs involved in delivering your services, including materials, labor, overhead, and any additional expenses to ensure you cover costs and achieve a desired profit margin.
• Market Research: Investigate the pricing of competitors to understand the market average, allowing you to position your services accordingly without undercharging or overpricing.
• Value-Based Pricing: Consider the unique value proposition of your services, such as exclusive designs or exceptional customer service, and price higher for premium offerings.
• Pricing Structures: Decide whether you’ll offer packages, a la carte options, or a combination of both to cater to different customer needs and maximize revenue.
• Flexibility: Be ready to adjust your prices based on customer feedback, market trends, and the overall success of your business.
• Transparency: Clearly communicate the pricing to customers, avoiding hidden costs to build trust and ensure customer satisfaction.

What does it cost to start a bridal business?

Initiating a bridal business can involve substantial financial commitment, the scale of which is significantly influenced by factors such as geographical location, market dynamics, and operational expenses, among others. Nonetheless, our extensive research and hands-on experience have revealed an estimated starting cost of approximately $90000 for launching such an business. Please note, not all of these costs may be necessary to start up your bridal business.

Starting a bridal business requires meticulous attention to detail, especially when it comes to acquiring the right equipment and supplies. These essentials not only help in creating a magical experience for the brides but also ensure the smooth operation of your business. Below are key items to consider for your inventory:

• Dresses and Accessories: Stock a variety of bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, veils, shoes, and jewelry to cater to different tastes and sizes.
• Fitting Room Essentials: Install large mirrors, comfortable seating, and good lighting to create a pleasant fitting experience.
• Alteration Tools: Ensure you have sewing machines, fabric scissors, measuring tapes, and mannequins for dress alterations.
• Display Fixtures: Acquire elegant display stands and racks for showcasing dresses and accessories.
• Point of Sale System: Invest in a reliable POS system for efficient transaction processing and inventory management.
• Packaging Supplies: Have on hand quality garment bags, boxes, and tissue paper for a professional presentation of purchased items.
• Marketing Materials: Prepare brochures, business cards, and a well-designed website to attract and inform potential clients.
• Cleaning Supplies: Maintain cleanliness with fabric-friendly cleaning solutions and equipment for spotless dresses and store upkeep.

List of software, tools and supplies needed to start a bridal business:

• Computer: $500 - $1000
• Website Builder: $5 - $40/month
• Photography Equipment: $500 - $1000
• Business Planner Software: $20 - $50
• Inventory Tracking Software: Free to Hundreds of Dollars/Month
• Financial Software: Free to Hundreds of Dollars/Month
• Advertising Platforms (e.g. Google Ads): Cost Depends on Campaigns Launched
• Marketing Materials (e.g. Flyers and business cards): Starting at Under $100
• Vendor Database Software :Free to Hundreds of Dollars/Month
• Security Software: Free to Hundreds of Dollars/Year

Securing the right insurance is a critical step in protecting your bridal business. It safeguards your investment and provides peace of mind, ensuring that you can focus on delivering the perfect experience to your clients. Below are the key types of insurance you should consider:

• General Liability Insurance: This covers accidents or injuries that could occur on your business premises, protecting you from potential lawsuits.
• Product Liability Insurance: If you're selling bridal gowns or accessories, this insurance can protect you from claims related to product defects or customer injuries caused by your products.
• Professional Liability Insurance: Also known as errors and omissions insurance, it covers you against claims of professional negligence or failure to perform your professional duties.
• Property Insurance: This type of insurance protects your inventory, equipment, and physical space from theft, damage, or loss due to events like fire or severe weather.
• Business Interruption Insurance: If an unexpected event causes your business to temporarily close, this insurance can help cover lost income and expenses.

Consult with an insurance broker to determine the specific coverage that aligns with your business needs and risks.

Starting a bridal business requires a strong marketing plan to attract your target audience and establish your brand. By focusing on your unique services and reaching out to potential clients, you can begin to build a reputation as a go-to destination for bridal needs. Here are some essential steps to kickstart your marketing efforts:

• Develop a comprehensive online presence by creating a professional website, showcasing your portfolio, and utilizing search engine optimization (SEO) to improve visibility.
• Engage with audiences on social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook, where you can share wedding tips, client testimonials, and sneak peeks of your services.
• Network with other wedding industry professionals, such as venues, photographers, and florists, to establish referral partnerships.
• Leverage paid advertising through targeted social media ads, Google AdWords, and bridal magazines to reach couples actively planning their wedding.
• Offer special promotions or discounts to first-time customers to encourage them to try your services and spread the word.
• Participate in bridal shows and expos to gain direct exposure to potential clients and market your services in person.
• Collect and showcase reviews and testimonials from satisfied clients to build trust and credibility among prospective customers.

Building a successful bridal business requires a blend of passion, dedication, and smart growth strategies. Once you've laid the groundwork and established your brand, it's time to consider expansion. Here are some key steps to help you broaden your bridal business and reach more clients:

• Introduce new product lines or services, such as bridesmaids' dresses, groom attire, or wedding planning services, to become a one-stop-shop for bridal parties.
• Forge partnerships with wedding venues, photographers, and caterers to create package deals, which can attract more customers and generate referrals.
• Invest in online marketing, including social media and search engine optimization (SEO), to increase your visibility and attract a broader audience.
• Explore e-commerce by selling bridal accessories, gowns, or customizable products online to reach customers beyond your local area.
• Attend bridal expos and trade shows to network with industry professionals, showcase your offerings, and gain insights into market trends.
• Consider opening additional locations or franchising your business model to expand geographically without overextending your resources.
• Encourage customer reviews and testimonials to build trust and credibility with potential clients, which can lead to increased word-of-mouth referrals.
• Stay innovative by regularly updating your collections and offerings based on customer feedback and industry trends to keep your business fresh and relevant.

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Wedding Planning Business Plan

If you are into creating memorable experiences, then planning a picture-perfect wedding for someone would be blissful and rewarding.

Anyone can start a new business, but you need a detailed business plan when it comes to raising funding, applying for loans, and scaling it like a pro!

Need help writing a business plan for your wedding planning business? You’re at the right place. Our wedding planning business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write A Wedding Planning Business Plan?

Writing a wedding planning business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

Introduce your Business:

Start your executive summary by briefly introducing your business to your readers.

Market Opportunity:

Wedding planning services:.

Highlight the wedding planning services you offer your clients. The USPs and differentiators you offer are always a plus.

Marketing & Sales Strategies:

Financial highlights:, call to action:.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your company. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

Business Description:

Describe your business in this section by providing all the basic information:

Describe what kind of wedding planning company you run and the name of it. You may specialize in one of the following wedding planning businesses:

• Full-service wedding planner
• Destination wedding planner
• Theme wedding planner
• Wedding consultant
• Describe the legal structure of your wedding planning company, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.
• Explain where your business is located and why you selected the place.

Mission Statement:

Business history:.

• Additionally, If you have received any awards or recognition for excellent work, describe them.

Future Goals

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

Target market:

Start this section by describing your target market. Define your ideal customer and explain what types of services they prefer. Creating a buyer persona will help you easily define your target market to your readers.

Market size and growth potential:

Describe your market size and growth potential and whether you will target a niche or a much broader market.

Competitive Analysis:

Market trends:.

Analyze emerging trends in the industry, such as technology disruptions, changes in customer behavior or preferences, etc. Explain how your business will cope with all the directions.

Regulatory Environment:

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your wedding consultant business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Wedding Planning Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

Describe your services:

Mention the wedding planning services your business will offer. This list may include services like,

• Initial consultation
• Venue selection
• Budget planning & management
• Wedding design & theme development
• Wedding day coordination

Explain the service process:

Additional services.

In short, this section of your wedding planning plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

Unique Selling Proposition (USP):

Define your business’s USPs depending on the market you serve, the equipment you use, and the unique services you provide. Identifying USPs will help you plan your marketing strategies.

Pricing Strategy:

Marketing strategies:, sales strategies:, customer retention:.

Overall, this section of your wedding planning business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your wedding planning business, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

Staffing & Training:

Operational process:, equipment & machinery:.

Include the list of equipment and machinery required for wedding planning, such as office supplies, camera & photography equipment, project management software, wedding planning software, social media management tools, file transfer tool, etc.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your wedding planning business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Founders/CEO:

Key managers:.

Introduce your management and key members of your team, and explain their roles and responsibilities.

Organizational structure:

Compensation plan:, advisors/consultants:.

Mentioning advisors or consultants in your business plans adds credibility to your business idea.

This section should describe the key personnel for your wedding planning business, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:.

Determine and mention your business’s break-even point—the point at which your business costs and revenue will be equal.

Financing Needs:

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your wedding planner business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This sample wedding planning business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful wedding planning plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our wedding planning business plan pdf .

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Frequently asked questions, why do you need a wedding planning business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful wedding planning business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your wedding planning company.

Where to find business plan writers for your wedding planning business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your wedding planning business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your wedding planning business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any wedding planning business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software .

How do I write a good market analysis in a wedding planning business plan?

Market analysis is one of the key components of your business plan that requires deep research and a thorough understanding of your industry. We can categorize the process of writing a good market analysis section into the following steps:

• Stating the objective of your market analysis—e.g., investor funding.
• Industry study—market size, growth potential, market trends, etc.
• Identifying target market—based on user behavior and demographics.
• Analyzing direct and indirect competitors.
• Calculating market share—understanding TAM, SAM, and SOM.
• Knowing regulations and restrictions
• Organizing data and writing the first draft.

Writing a marketing analysis section can be overwhelming, but using ChatGPT for market research can make things easier.

Can a good wedding planning business plan help me secure funding?

Indeed. A well-crafted wedding planning business plan will help your investors better understand your business domain, market trends, strategies, business financials, and growth potential—helping them make better financial decisions.

So, if you have a profitable and investable business, a comprehensive business plan can certainly help you secure your business funding.

What's the importance of a marketing strategy in a wedding planning business plan?

Marketing strategy is a key component of your wedding planning business plan. Whether it is about achieving certain business goals or helping your investors understand your plan to maximize their return on investment—an impactful marketing strategy is the way to do it!

Here are a few pointers to help you understand the importance of having an impactful marketing strategy:

• It provides your business an edge over your competitors.
• It helps investors better understand your business and growth potential.
• It helps you develop products with the best profit potential.
• It helps you set accurate pricing for your products or services.

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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The First 5 Steps All Brides Should Take When Planning Their Wedding

How to destress wedding planning..

• Paula Mooney

Written on May 07, 2024

Weddings have always played an important role in marriage and society, but they seem to have become more opulent and flamboyant over the past few years. The  average cost of a wedding  is enough to give any bride and groom hot flashes, and there are hours and hours of planning that go into making the details work. The key to figuring out how to plan a wedding is knowing the responsibilities associated with planning a huge event. Perhaps, you’ve always operated under the assumption that a wedding planner would help you figure out all of the details of your wedding, but the reality is that most brides and grooms plan their big day without professional help. If you don’t have the luxury of having a wedding planner on your team, it’s easy to get overwhelmed — which is why you need a plan and a wedding planning checklist .

RELATED: How Each Of My Three Weddings Accurately Predicted How My Marriages Would Go

Here are the first 5 steps all brides who are planning their wedding should take:

1. start with the guests.

The very first step is to start building and trimming your guest list. There are multiple ways you can do this, but here’s one technique:

• Begin by adding every name you and your groom would possibly invite . This may include immediate family, friends, second cousins, college roommates, etc. It’s a liberal list that helps you get something down on paper.
• Once you have this big list, start to trim it down. Remove the people you haven’t seen in a while and don’t keep in touch with them. Erase names of individuals who recently got married and didn't invite you to their wedding (not out of spite, but practicality. If they didn't invite you, they shouldn't be offended when you don’t invite them). It should be easy to remove 15-20 percent of the original names on your list.

Here’s where things get tricky. Since you haven’t decided on a budget or wedding venue yet, you need a couple of different guest lists. One is your strict, low-budget guest list that contains the absolute bare minimum. Think of immediate family and closest friends. The second list is a much looser one, which includes additional guests whose invitations are contingent on cost-related factors .

RELATED: How I Got The Wedding Of My Dreams By Calling It All Off

2. Identify a budget

Step two sort of happens in tandem with step one. Think about financials and how much money you have to spend on the wedding . Will you be paying for it yourself? Are your parents helping out? Is your groom’s family going to pitch in? Figure out the absolute maximum you have to spend, as well as a lower number that you’re more comfortable with.

@weddingprocass 10 ways to save money in your wedding budget, dont spwnd when you dont have to!! #weddingplanningtip #weddingplanningtips #weddingplanningadvice #weddingplanning #weddingplanner #weddingtiktok #weddingguidance #weddingbudget ♬ original sound - Cassie | Pro Wedding Tips 💍

3. Find the location

With your budget in tow, start your search for a venue . Popular venues will often fill up a year or two in advance, so make sure you start looking as soon as possible. You’ll want to zero in on a couple of different options, just so you can see the cost differences, as well as potential limitations on the number of guests.

RELATED: Wedding Planner Reveals 3 Things Guests Don't Care About That Can Seriously Cut Costs

4. Research vendors

Once you have your guest list, budget, and location, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what sort of money you have left for things like flowers, food, drink, entertainment, cake, etc. Spend time researching vendors and looking for trustworthy ones. It’s better to spend a little more on a reliable vendor than it is to save money and get a vendor you feel uneasy about.

@hanchambers HOW TO FIND WEDDING VENDORS ON SOCIAL MEDIA 💘 I’m gonna be honest: finding our wedding vendors was a labor of love. When I wasnt getting the results I was hoping for on search engines and wedding websites, I dusted off my journalism degree (kidding but not lol) and started lurking through IG! You’ll find great vendors you may have missed otherwise 🫶 #bridetobe2023 #weddingplanningtips #weddingtiktok #twobrides ♬ original sound - hannah 💘

5. Understand what's important

Finally, make sure you understand what’s important. Having beautiful floral centerpieces and perfectly cooked appetizers is great, but these elements won’t make or break your wedding. Focus on your groom and enjoy the evening. Your wedding is all about you and your groom . Once the big day arrives, it’s time to relax and enjoy the moment. While you may find it difficult to step back, you need to switch roles. You’re no longer the wedding planner — you’re the bride. Pass off those planning responsibilities to someone you can trust — such as your mother or maid of honor — and soak up every last second of what will be one of the best days of your life.

RELATED:  5 Wedding Planning Behaviors That Can Predict The Success Of Your Marriage

Paula Mooney is a writer whose essays and articles have been featured in national print magazines such as Writer's Digest, and major online publications like Yahoo, Examiner, and more.

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10 Tips for Planning a Wedding When You Work a 9-to-5 Job

The experts share how to balance your personal and professional lives with ease.

From touring venues and hiring vendors to attending dress fittings and selecting your menu, planning a wedding isn’t an easy task, as conceptualizing and executing your dream day requires a lot of thought, time, energy, patience, and diligence. The overall process typically takes nine to 12 months, per planner Tory Smith of Smith + James , and every step of the way, there are people who need to be contacted, decisions that need to be made, and details that need to be attended to. 

Simply put, planning a wedding is basically a full-time job, which is pretty difficult to manage if you already work a corporate job. When you throw commuting, household chores, errands, and personal time on top of your daily professional obligations, you probably feel like there isn’t any time left in the day for wedding-related tasks. Not to mention, Smith notes that many wedding vendors are open for business during the 9-to-5 window, meaning that working outside of hours is especially challenging.  

• Tory Smith is the owner and creative director of Smith + James , a high-end destination event planning and design boutique. 
• Paula Ewers is the principal owner and lead planner of Truly Ewers Events , which has offices in Dallas, Texas and Atlanta, Georgia.

So, if you’re feeling bogged down by your wedding to-do list and you’re unsure how to balance your professional and personal life, we asked the experts for their advice on how to navigate wedding planning and your career seamlessly. Ahead, here are 10 tips for planning a wedding when you work a 9-to-5 job.

Related: The Complete Guide to Planning a Wedding

Hire a Professional

If you’re already occupied during the hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., planning a wedding by yourself is almost an impossible task. That’s why Smith recommends hiring a professional wedding planner . “Planners do the work for you,” Smith says. “They help alleviate stress, make vendor selections, manage your budget , and navigate you through the whole process.” By taking on the bulk of the labor, these vendors will free up time in your schedule and space in your mind. Their job is to handle nitty-gritty details, keep everything on schedule, and make the experience as smooth as possible, so you don’t have to worry about tackling your wedding to-do list at the end of a long work day.

Designate Time for Planning

Even if you do hire a planner, there are certain decisions that you must be a part of, whether it’s determining your aesthetic , giving the final say on your tablescape, or meeting with your caterer. That means it’s important to carve out time during your week to attend to these details. If you have a 9-to-5 job, planner Paula Ewers of Truly Ewers Events suggests using your weekends wisely. “Take two to three hours over the weekend to focus on planning,” she recommends. “Even if you feel that you don’t have items to work on, prep for items to come.” Crossing tasks off of your list every week will help you feel prepared and set you up for success in the long run.

Stay Organized

When juggling a full-time job and planning a wedding, staying organized is crucial. Determine a system, such as Google Drive or a paper notebook, where you can compile all of your wedding-related items in one place. “Making lists and staying on top of your tasks will help you manage the extra workload,” Smith explains. 

Create an Email for Wedding-Specific Tasks

When communicating with vendors, it’s easy to miss an important detail if you’re using your personal or professional email to keep in touch, and messages about your wedding can easily get lost in the shuffle of furniture sales or meeting reminders. Creating a separate email address that you use specifically for your wedding will help you feel organized and on top of your projects. Not to mention, you’ll separate your corporate life from your wedding planning endeavor, which will make orchestrating your big day more manageable with a full-time job. 

To save even more time, Ewers suggests creating folders for each detail, such as “Flowers” and “Wedding Cake.” “This will assist you in searching for information easily when you need smaller details to add to a larger project,” she notes.

Identify Your Priorities

Since time is a limited resource, Ewers advises concentrating on only the aspects that truly matter to you and your partner. “Focus your time and resources on these priorities and consider compromising less important details,” she says. For instance, if the two of you have been dreaming about a floral-filled affair but don’t care much about what your wedding party wears , spend more of your time selecting your blooms and have your crew choose their own outfits from a designated color palette that matches the rest of your aesthetic. Determining what you value most will save you a lot of time and create a more accurate depiction of your love story.

Limit Your Research

Planning your big day already takes up space in your schedule, but if you constantly check outside sources every time you need to make a decision, you’ll never have any free time after your corporate job. To make the process as efficient as possible, Smith encourages you to limit scrolling on social media. “Don’t get caught in the trap of spending so much time on Pinterest or Instagram that you get decision fatigue and become overwhelmed with options,” Smith states. “Be confident in your vision and stick to it.”

Scale Back on DIY Projects

Adding a few DIY projects to your agenda is definitely a fun and budget-friendly way to express your creativity, but tackling these tasks can be a huge time sucker—especially for those with 9-to-5 jobs. If you really want to get crafty ahead of your wedding, take on one or two DIY designs and buy or rent the rest of your decorations. Just be sure to start the initiative far in advance, so you aren’t bogged down at the last second. 

Learn to Delegate

Although you probably feel responsible for bringing your vision to life, handling every single detail on your own isn’t feasible when you have a full-time job competing for your resources. Trust that your wedding day will still run smoothly if you relinquish some of the control and have others chip in. To effectively do this, call upon your friends and family members to complete tasks based on their skill sets , according to Ewers. Maybe you ask your partner to curate a playlist and create the menu, while you enlist your mom to pick up your wedding dress. Any assistance will go a long way.

Find an Accountability Partner

It can be tempting to skip wedding planning tasks after a tiring workday, especially if you’re the one holding yourself accountable. If you aren’t typically a self-motivated person, find a partner who will “help you stay on track with your planning goals and commitments by providing support, motivation, and encouragement,” Ewers suggests. Perhaps you ask your maid of honor to check in with you once a week—either on a phone call or via text message—and ask what projects you worked on. Having someone on top of your deadlines might help you feel more inclined to buckle down.

Reframe Your Thinking

While planning a wedding can be arduous at times, if you constantly tell yourself that you don’t have enough time to work your 9-to-5 job and plan your nuptials, you’ll bring unnecessary anxiety into the picture. How you view the process will affect your experience of it, so sometimes, all it takes is a shift in your perspective and self-talk. “Remember, you are planning a party to celebrate the fact that you fell in love with your forever person,” Smith points out. “It’s a celebration! I’ve seen people fall victim to wedding stress when they forget to keep the main thing in focus. It shouldn’t feel burdensome or like an extra job–it should be fun! Always keep that in mind, so you don’t let drama or stress get you down or distract you from your actual full-time job.”

Up Next: What to Do When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed by Wedding Planning

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The First 3 Things You Need to Do When Planning Your Wedding

When the shimmering glitter of engagement bliss finally settles, newly-weds-to-be are often left facing the formidable undertaking that is planning a wedding. With guest lists and garments being but a few items on the intimidating agenda which precedes the big day, couples arrive wearily at the inevitable and overwhelming question of “Where do I start?”

We asked Great Performances Wedding Specialist Amanda DiUglio her thoughts on what these fresh fiancés should focus on in the first weeks of the planning process.

#1 Enjoy the time

Between cake tastings, venue tours, and figuring out how to tell your Texan uncle that you’ve asked the DJ not to play any line dances, you’ll find yourself at the altar before you can say “I do”. Amanda insists that taking things slow and trying to enjoy the planning process is imperative, stating, “Don’t rush into everything! The time will go super fast and we want you to live in the moment and celebrate with all the people that you love.”

#2 Hire a planner

Beyond an average get-together, even individuals most inclined to organization might find themselves unprepared to take on such a vast task. “A planner is invaluable in the planning process,” says Amanda. “They’ll help you with all the details. They’re really your rock as you go through all of the contracts and negotiations, and can really be a good person to help lead that charge.”

#3 Start with a venue

You can’t begin a painting without first picking out your canvas, and so too does this apply to planning the perfect wedding. Understanding what’s possible within a space can help you make informed decisions on all other aspects, from where you’ll get dressed to how big the dance floor is. Amanda assures, “Once you find the best wedding venue for you, all the other pieces will fall into place.” She also points out that venues are often, “…associated with caterers and florists, and have a great preferred list,” which can help to jumpstart those next steps.

Check out our wedding gallery below to get some more inspiration for your upcoming nuptials!

• Amanda DiUglio

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Uptown Events Planning and Rentals

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2086 Jodeco Rd

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Create the wedding of your dreams with our exquisite event rentals, stunning decor, and expert event planning services. From elegant centerpieces to breathtaking backdrops, we'll turn your vision into reality. Let us handle the details while you cherish every moment. Contact us today to start planning your perfect day! …

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