How do I get a Special Event Planning buisness started?

Question

I want to primarily do birthday parties and decorating for the holidays. I would be willing to add home decorating in with the whole package.

Answer 1

The best routes to take are to research the process of starting a business as well as the industry you're interested in.

I recommend checking out the SBA, Entrepreneur, The Start Up Journal & Nolo. All 4 are great informational resources for the new/small business owner. I posted links for you in the source box.

Associations may be a good avenue to explore. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.

Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can about the industry. Here are some book titles that are relevant:

* How to Start a Home-Based Event Planning Business by Jill Moran
* Start Your Own Event Planning Business: Your Step by Step Guide to Success by Krista Turner
* The Essential Event Planning Kit by Godfrey Harris
* Start & Run an Event-Planning Business by Cindy Lemaire

I also posted links to some free articles in the source box.

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Answer 2

Network, network, network. That is a people business and you will need to build a rolodex of potential clients who will also act as your word of mouth advertising.

Would you decorate for hotels and businesses? They key there is to build a relationship long before the season - say Spring. You want people to think of you and you only when the time comes to make a decision. Remember that people will buy from the famililiar vs somebody new hitting them right before the holidays.

When it comes to sales, be sure to show people in your conversations that you are prepared to get in and get out - "making their lives easier". That's what business people want to hear especially in the holidays.

Birthday parties - network with catering businesses and other residual businesses that cater to that crowd - moonwalks, party rentals etc. Let them know that as you get referrals you will mention their business and would like them to do the same - create win-win partnerships.

Also, if you have a day job, keep it at the very least until you have your first few customers. Most birthdays will be on weekends and decorating can be done then too.

Best wishes!

Answer 3

Hi There...I think there may be a book for you to read about this business on amazon.com. just do a search.

Good Luck