Event Planning Starting and Running a Home Based Event
Transcription
Event Planning Starting and Running a Home Based Event
Event Planning Starting and Running a Home Based Event Planning Business Contents Page Career kit Bizymoms 1. Introduction a. What is event planning? b. Why do people outsource event planning? c. Am I capable enough? d. Why should I do it? 2 3 4 5 2. Getting the basics in order 5 a. My personal contacts b. My strengths and weaknesses c. What type of events should I do d. What resources do I need & do I have 5 6 7 8 3. Evaluating the competition 10 a. What do they offer? b. What is unique in each of them? c. How expensive are they? d. Can I do something better? 10 10 10 11 4. The business plan 12 a. How to get the pricing right? b. How personalized can I get? c. Registering the business 12 12 13 5. Marketing 13 a. What will I name the business? b. How will I create visibility for myself? 13 13 6. Finances 14 a. Start-up costs b. Forecasting business growth c. Am I happy with the profits? 14 15 15 7. Growing the business 15 a. Vision for my business 15 8. Summary 15 Copyright 2008 Bizymoms.com 1.Introduction 1. Introduction Every woman, particularly every mom, becomes an event planner in some way during her lifetime. It's an inherent skill that some extend to a full scale business. In essence, event planning involves all the processes that go into organizing an activity, which may be a party, a competition or more complicated planner is also known as a conference coordinator, convention planner, meeting manager and special event coordinator, based on expertise or specialty. 1.1 What is event planning? Gone are the days when planning an event only involved the hosts themselves. While companies have Event Planning affairs like conferences, ceremonies and festivals. Based on the type of event handled, an event been outsourcing the organizational aspects of important events for some time now, within the past few years, more and more people have begun to rely on 'planners' for the simplest occasions, from birthday parties to baby showers. This relatively new, lucrative market has seen a surge in the 1990's and despite the lull in the early 2000's when budgets were slashed and attendance dropped, it is still growing. In 2003, the convention and trade show organizer business reaped $10.134 billion, as reported by the Bureau of Census Service Annual Survey. However, experts predict that family-based events planning businesses such as birthdays and anniversaries will be just as promising in the future, due to the global population increase. Some of the general processes in event planning include: Setting deadlines Managing financial aspects Selecting and reserving a suitable venue/s Preparing and sending invitations Copyright 2008 Bizymoms.com 2 Liaising with suppliers Creating the atmosphere (Music & Décor) Coordinating transportation, advertising, catering Ensuring smooth progress of the event on the day Communicating regularly with the clients to ensure satisfaction and conformity Follow up work i.e. get feedback, send word of appreciation for participants etc. 1.2 Why do people outsource event planning? This is relatively a new career field but it's growing at a tremendous pace. So why is that people prefer to personal of social occasions? Let's consider the advantages: 1.2.1 Convenience This is the most common reason to hire event planners. Today, many of us just don't have the time, resources or the energy to pay attention to the details that go into organizing events. Even if we did have Event Planning let total strangers handle their corporate ceremonies, to the say the least of their weddings, the most such small luxuries, planning an event down to a tee can be an exhaustive experience and can sometimes take the fun out of the whole occasion. Companies especially, prefer to keep their employees occupied with their routine work and to have the event management aspect outsourced. Event planners are there to take are of the background details so that the people who are hosting the event can actually sit back and look forward to the big day, rather than worry through it. Especially in events like weddings and parties, the hostess would prefer to be involved in the activity along with the other guests and not have to control the scene from behind. 1.2.2 Expertise Event planners are equipped with what many of us lack the right contacts and information. Plus, they have handled similar projects and know just 'what to do' and 'how to do' during difficult times. With their help, it's easy to select between A and B without it becoming a nail-biting affair. This will take the pressure off any host and he/she in turn can concentrate on other issues. And nowadays you rarely find events which are planned from several months back, so experienced people are needed to plan and execute events in very short notice. Copyright 2008 Bizymoms.com 3 1.2.3 An 'outside view' Let's face it. More often than not, being the 'inside party' means you are mentally conditioned and perhaps biased in certain ways. It's like how an author should always engage another 'neutral' person, so that his script is error-free and flowing. The same theory applies to event planning. Event planners help to keep things objective. Because events are not only there to celebrate with your friends, but they are also used to indirectly visualize one's image, status and financial power. In order to make it 1.2.4 Creativity Some people are very good at organizing parties, launches and similar events. But as time goes along the demands tend to change and tastes become diverse. In such situations creativity or novelty in such events play a vital role. An events planner brings this creativity to an event. They make sure the event is different to what the guests have experienced earlier, and most concentrate on the latest themes. Event Planning appealing to all the guests, professional help is a must rather than depending on your own taste. These themed events allow interactive activities for guests and also provide an opportunity for guests to show-off their costumes and dresses. 1.3 Am I capable enough? So the next question in your mind will be if this business is for you. If you are an active person, who can run around, have creative ideas, have excellent people skills, and believe you are a good organizer then you have passed the test. If you are one of those, who love to organize parties and are always the pick of your friends to organize activities, then you have passed with flying colors. Moreover, if you have previous working experience, have organized events at office and worked with suppliers then this business is definitely for you. Needless to say, event planning is not an orthodox, 9-5 career. You have to constantly be on your toes and alert to the task at hand. You will need to communicate back and forth with the clients and the vendors, and be accessible, even 24 hours a day and seven days a week! On a positive note, if you are an organized person, a natural at coordination and thinking on your feet, you could rise to the challenge. Copyright 2008 Bizymoms.com 4 1.4 Why should I do it? In simple terms you don't need any large financial backing to start this and the actual amount of cash you need in monetary terms is very small. And the returns (profits) can be quite large, when compared to how much you need to start the business. Since there is minimom capital and part-time commitment, you can involve yourself in the business whenever you want or feel like it. There are no risks, except to finish whatever you have undertaken and if you are determined there are no limits for your growth. Now The modern working woman is driven by pride and contentment in her work as well as the will to succeed. If you are methodical, energetic individual who enjoys bringing people together and keeping them entertained, this industry is for you. What better way than to apply your inborn creativity, charisma and love of planning? It is one of the most rewarding and challenging careers because you area dealing with many different people and trying (however improbable this seems) to please all of them. And what's Event Planning how many businesses can offer you this sort of break! more, you get to be smack in the middle of organizing so many events, as if they were your own. Who says you can't enjoy and make money at the same time! 2. Getting the basics in order 2.1 My personal contacts Networking is perhaps the most important aspect of starting and maintaining your own business in event planning. The more contacts you, the more the chances of striking gold, and keeping it. You need to really put yourself out there and not wait for people to come to you with questions. Personal contact will help you in several ways. a. Finding clients b. Getting the message across c. Free market research and sample to test your ideas You don't have to be a social butterfly to be one step ahead of the rest but you do need to make a lasting impression with the opportunities at hand. If you want to start want to start your business off in style, there is only one way to do it-have your own party! It would be ideal if you can base the occasion on your business aspirations. In other words, if you want to get into children's' parties organizer business, your own party could be planned to celebrate the birthday of your child or your friend's child. Whatever the event, it does not need to be a grand affair with a lot of spending. Copyright 2008 Bizymoms.com 5 This is your chance to show off your skill in creating a memorable experience on a sensible budget. Let your individual taste speak for itself and create a trademark that will not go unnoticed by potential clients. The immediate objective would be to have the kids on their best behavior and squealing in glee (enough for the parents to take note)! Feedback is free so it's wise to pay attention and learn. In this business, family and friends becomes a great asset, especially if they are willing to go out of their way to put in a good word for your capabilities. You could hand some brochures to anyone who would care to spread the message. It may be a good idea to first plan few events for friends and relatives free of charge, so that the only way they will photographs of the whole event! These will come in useful, when you want to market your services. 2.2 What are my strengths and weaknesses? Before you test the waters, it helps to do a small personal evaluation and determine where you stand. As in any business, firstly you need to know what your strengths and weaknesses are. Once it is done see if Event Planning be paying you back is by writing glittering recommendations and supplying you memorable your strengths are sufficient enough be an event planner and if there are any crucial weaknesses that might hamper your opportunity. Here are some of the strengths which you should possess to be a good event planner. Ability to multi-task Leadership skills Attention to detail Marketing & negotiating skills Capacity to work under stress/ to Positive attitude meet deadlines Self-motivation and drive Creativity and imagination Supervision and delegation Efficiency and organizational skills Team player Energy, enthusiasm and stamina Thinking on your feet Excellent communication skills Time-management and problem Flexibility & adaptability solving skills Inter-personal skills Tolerance The good news is most of those above can be acquired or sharpened by training, the bad news is certain weaknesses (you earlier business crashed out, you have a bad business reputation, you are known to be an inefficient person, not many people like you etc.) can override these strengths. Copyright 2008 Bizymoms.com 6 2.3 What type of events should I do? Depending on personal interest, time availability and location, you can specialize in a niche area. For instance, you may prefer to handle simple projects like birthdays and anniversaries, as opposed to corporate events, conventions and exhibitions. Or, if your city is blessed with amazing sceneries and attracts plenty of young romantics, you may consider becoming a wedding planner. A busy metropolitan, on the other hand, offers more scope for a corporate event planner. The most important thing here is to do something that you believe in and enjoy because in order to turn out a perfect event, you have to treat it like your very own. Your past 'hands-on' experience can also come into play. If you've worked as an executive for a firm and been actively involved in organizing events that is as good a qualification as any formal training. Or maybe you've always been the neighborhood's favorite mom when it comes to organizing get-togethers, supporting services, such as catering, would come in useful. Judy Allen categorizes the various types of events in this industry, in her book titled 'Marketing Your Event Planning Business: A Creative Approach to Gaining the Competitive Edge'. The three most popular types are outlined here: a) Social Market This includes birthday celebrations, children's parties, bar and bat mitzvahs, reunions, graduations, Event Planning anniversaries, birthday parties, etc. Never underestimate the power of the grapevine! Even experience in weddings, other hospitality events and memorials and civic events. The field has much potential as it is more simple / informal and stands to gain much from word of mouth. You would be able to use more of your imagination and not be limited to a certain frame. On the other hand, these are mostly one-time events; you cannot expect to be hired to plan your neighbor's wedding anniversary each year. Emotions and expectations run high due to the personal nature of the event. b) Corporate Market Events that are owned by private organizations, corporations, businesses and political parties come under this category. They tend to be large-scale and a source of high revenue. If you succeed with one event, it's very likely that you will get continuous offers from the same party over the years. Some examples of these types of events: award dinners, board member or stockholder meetings, company outings, conferences and seminars, competitions, fashion shows, trade show events and exhibitions, product launches, team building events. The range of tasks involved in carrying out the event is also complicated. Apart from arranging the food, décor and entertainment, you may have to make hotel selections and reservations, create an event design and conduct research and evaluations of the event. Your clients may be not be subjective, as in the case of the social market, but for the money you are being paid, they will demand very high standards and perfect execution. c) Non-Profits Events hosted by charities and non-profit organizations are described here, i.e. conferences, fundraisers, receptions, seminars. Basically, your task would be to organize events which will create awareness of issues being supported by these organizations and to expand their public base which in turn would generate funds. The revenue is comparatively low but the assignments are usually very interesting and rewarding. Generally, training in these events turn out to be good for your resume as an event planner. Copyright 2008 Bizymoms.com 7 2.4 What resources do I need and do I have It's very important to do a checklist of the resources you need for the home business and then compare it with what you already have. The gaps can be filled either by training, or acquiring the some expert assistance. a) Knowledge resources The idea here is to expand your knowledge and gather as much information as possible, on your own. Learning should be a continuous process but of course, it is best to start out with as much information as various aspects of event planning can give you confidence to handle your work. For further training, you can try to volunteer in your local societies or non profit organizations. Not only does this help you to cultivate relationships (sometimes even partnerships) but you can get a good idea of the facilities and opportunities available to you. Professional bodies also organize conferences and workshops that may of be interest and much use to you. Here are some helpful resources that are sure to fill in the information gaps: Event Planning possible because once the business takes off, there will not be much time for reading. Writings on Books Special Events: 21 century Global Event Management by Joel Jeff Goldblatt st Dollars & Events: How to Succeed in the Special Events Business by Joel Jeff Goldblatt & Frank Supovitz Gala!: The Special Events Planner for Professionals & Volunteers by Patti Coons Event Planning: The Ultimate Guide to Successful Meetings, Corporate Events, Fundraising Galas, Conference Conventions, Incentives and Other Special Events by Judy Allen Planning Successful Meetings & events, by Ann J. Boehme Magazines Event Solutions-features expert advice, industry news and benchmarks, latest trends and case Studies Visit www.eventsolutions.com for subscriptions Special Events-publishes annual Fact books and Source books. Visit www.event_solutions.com for subscriptions. Online Resources 1) Online Small Business Workshop www.cbsc.org/osbw 2) Service Corps of Retired Executives www.score.org 3) Chamberbiz www.chamberbiz.com/bizcenter/startup.cfm 4) Small Business Administration www.sbaonline.sba.gov 5) Small Business Legal Encyclopedia www.nolo.com/encyclopedia/sb_ency.html Copyright 2008 Bizymoms.com 8 Formal qualifications Formal qualifications This is not but ifbut you areare ambitious tomove moveonon to relatively large-scale projects, Thisaismust not a must if you ambitiousand andwant want to to relatively large-scale projects, then it'sthen it's highly recommended. These areavailable available beginners: highly recommended. Theseoptions options are to to beginners: a) University & College Programs- These are comprehensive programs usually offered A) University & College Programs-These are comprehensive programs usually offered through through hospitality departments in universities. According to Petersons.com, there are about hospitality departments in universities. According to Petersons.com, there are about 204 universities 204 universities and colleges providing such courses. It is worthwhile to check out whether they and colleges providing such courses. It is worthwhile to check out whether they cater to your specific cater to your specific needs. b) Certificate Courses and Continuing Education Programs- These are mostly part-time courses, University College Programs-These comprehensive usuallyto offered through hospitality which are&conveniently held duringare weekends or in programs the evenings, accommodate those who departments universities. to Petersons.com, there are about 204 universities and colleges are working.inThe coursesAccording are also more flexible. providing such courses. It is worthwhile to check out whether they cater to your specific needs. Major event planning associations also offer professional certification programs. The advantage is and that,Continuing on successful completion, you are willmostly be part of a courses, wide network B) Certificatehere Courses Education Programs-These part-time which of professionals in held this field. are conveniently during weekends or in the evenings, to accommodate those who are working. The courses are also more flexible. b) Physical Resources Event Planning needs. Major event planning associations also offer professional certification programs. The advantage here is Even a home-based business cannot be run alone. You can approach those who you know well- family that, on successful completion, you will be part of a wide network of professionals in this field. and friends- in order to try to find people who will be interested to join you in this line of work. Familiarity will definitely help to streamline event planning processes. And it is a convenient way to go about until b) Physical Resources you have acquired the funds to hire qualified people, if need be. Even a home-based business cannot be run alone. You can approach those who you know well-family order to try to find people will be Initially, interestedthere to joinwill yoube inseveral this line of work. Familiarity To start,and thefriends-in necessary finances have to bewho in place. expenses, so a bank willsound definitely help to streamline event planning processes. And speed it is a convenient to internet, go about until loan may like a good idea. You need to invest in a high computerway with a fax, a color printer and the paraphernalia that goespeople, with maintaining you have acquired the funds to hire qualified if need be. a steady stream of correspondence. Needless to say, a mobile phone is a must have. For transportation purposes, a van or a SUV is best, as you willTo need ample space. finances have to be in place. Initially, there will be several expenses, so a bank start, the necessary loan may sound like a good idea. You need to invest in a high speed computer with internet, a fax, a color printer and the paraphernalia that goes with maintaining a steady stream of correspondence. Needless to say, a mobile phone is a must have. For transportation purposes, a van or a SUV is best, as you will 3.Evaluating competition need ample space. For any business, it is worthwhile to check out the competition, so that your business aspirations are not neatly overlapping with theirs. Since it is quite difficult for small business owners to spend too much time and money on advertising and competing, for attention, the most sensible way is to grab a niche market that others have not encroached, although this may not be practical in some cases. Copyright Copyright2008 2008Bizymoms.com Bizymoms.com 9 3.1 What Formal qualifications do they offer? 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Once they decide on 3.Evaluating a growing niche. a package, throw in some other goodies (kids fun bouncer, flower décor for wedding car, free article on local For any newspaper) business,for it is free. worthwhile This would to check make them out the happy competition, and also stick so that to you. your business aspirations are One way to deal with competition is to attend all the seminars, workshops and such similar training not neatly overlapping with theirs. Since it is quite difficult for small business owners to spend too much programs that are be held in your area or even in neighboring towns. You must always keep a tab on time and money on advertising and competing, for attention, the most sensible way is to grab a niche competition. As mentioned previously consumer's preferences matter a lot, therefore competitors will market that others have not encroached, although this may not be practical in some cases. give you the best indication how and when things are changing. Then only will you truly stay ahead of your game. Copyright Copyright2008 2008Bizymoms.com Bizymoms.com 11 4. Business Formal 3.1 What qualifications do Plan they offer? it's home-based highly recommended. businesses)These and tryoptions to see are howavailable you can to make beginners: a difference. If the others are not willing to beThe toofollowing helpful or to share information with you, maybe you can check with your friends and family for should be included in the business plan: Services you will provide feedback a) University on events&organized College by Programsthem. ThisThese way, you are cancomprehensive also get an idea of programs how muchusually they charge offered for Your location eventsthrough and be sure hospitality that your departments charges areinwithin universities. the accepted According range.to Petersons.com, there are about Your (prospective) clients 204 universities and colleges providing such courses. It is worthwhile to check out whether they Possible competitors Competition cater to isyour very specific important needs. inproducts business. gives you a pulse of the business, the way the industry is Vendors who will provide andItservices behavingCharges and also how consumer preferences are changing. You can also visit many online for your services Howevent you will advertise and market professional b) Certificate Courses planning and sites Continuing and get some Education idea Programsabout how These they work. are mostly Initiallypart-time it is vital courses, that you How much money you need to get started understand whichthe arebusiness conveniently and the held processes during weekends thoroughly. or in Sothe spend evenings, a lot oftotime accommodate studying how those different who peopleare handle working. different The businesses. courses are also Fire some more flexible. calls to event planners and see what they ask, how they 4.1 How to get the pricing right? respondMajor and how event best to planning impressassociations customers first-hand. also offer professional certification programs. The Charges depend on several factors as your business aspirations, locality, for of advantage here is that, onsuch successful completion, you will be market part ofsegment, a widedemand network and your qualifications 3.2services What professionals is unique in inthis them? field.and experience. If you live in an upbeat, urban neighborhood where event planning is in high demand, the prices can be towards the higher end of the spectrum. Each year of experience adds value to your service too. In the book “How to Start a Home-Based Event Planning Business” by Jill Once b) Moran, you Physical gather Resources information different types of event planners, you will see that some offer unique four methods of pricingfrom are given: Event Planning A business plan is a kind of roadmap to outline all the aspects of your business. It will help to arrange your ideas and to avoid costly decisions. But the business plan is not only for you. It will be useful to obtain a loan from the First, This isfind notout a must about butthe if you event areplanners ambitiousalready and want operating to moveinonyour to relatively locality (check large-scale if there projects, are similar then bank or from any other source, because the lender needs to know whether your business idea is promising. things which others don't offer. And also each planner has some different approach and offering which Pricing by the Hour -Thisthem. is considered a very method many. Anthose hourly rate is setknow for your service makes Even a customers home-based prefer business cannot For example be run practical alone. it can be You where can by approach the concept andwho the you creative idea wellisfamily given and this can range from $25 per hour to $125 per hour. The type of service that you offer is not taken into free and friendsas a package, in orderor to where try to find they people provide who helpers will be to interested look after to the join kids you in atthis the line party of work. for free, Familiarity or even account. provide will definitely a complete help torecorded streamline video event footage planning of theprocesses. event free.And it is a convenient way to go about until you have acquired the funds tothe hire qualified people, if need Pricing by Percentage -Here, charges come in the form of abe. percentage of the total budget, say about 203.330%. How expensive they?on what you have negotiated with your client. This means that this approach The percentageare is based one client tofinances the next. have to be in place. Initially, there will be several expenses, so a bank Todiffers start, from the necessary The loan fees mayevent soundplanners like a good charge idea.isYou critical. need But to people invest in don't a high always speed go computer for the cheapest, with internet, because a fax, they a Pricing by Fee for Services -If there is a lot of work involved and/or your client wants to experiment, you may might color printer feel theand work themaybe paraphernalia cheap too. thatAnd goes they with would maintaining think twice a steady beforestream going to ofacorrespondence. premium priced prefer to use this method of charging. Each specific task that will need to be carried out to organize the event will planner, Needless torate say, all athey mobile phone is a small is a must party. have. Ideally Foryour transportation pricing should purposes, dependa from van or event a SUV to event is best,and as have a when set and anywant other additional task will be charged on an hourly rate. depend you will need on time ample youspace. need to spend, additional people you need to hire, amount of calls and traveling Pricingand by the Commissionable Rates or 'Add-On's -In this approach a compensation/handling fee will be involved size of the event itself. added to all the services provided. A discount will have to be negotiated with your service providers. Therefore the best option is to provide packages/options. Give the consumer the option to choose 4.2 How personalized can I get? different packages at different prices, certain options which add-ons. theywant decide 3.Evaluating competition Remember, you are planning an eventwith for another person, so try tocan justbe runway with Once what you andon a package, throw inthe some fun bouncer, for her wedding car, free article suddenly surprise host other on thegoodies day. Keep(kids continuous contact flower with thedécor host, ask for opinions, though youon know the best Shewould hasto given thethem job the tohappy you toand savealso on time, so you expectedaspirations to get all theare local Formay any newspaper) business, for it option. is free. worthwhile This check make out competition, stick so that to you. yourare business for her. Always client when picking colors styles. Each one has their favorite. notinformation neatly overlapping withconsult theirs.your Since it is quite difficult for and small business owners to spend too much time and money on advertising and competing, for attention, the most sensible way is to grab a niche It is very important to build a good rapport with the client. Get to know him/her very well before starting on the market that others have not encroached, although this may not practical in some cases. job. Ask how she planned events by her own, what she thought wentbe wrong and right. These are little insights which can help you immensely in profiling your client's expectations. Copyright Copyright2008 2008Bizymoms.com Bizymoms.com 12 3.14.3What Formal qualifications do they Registering theoffer? business outflows and profits. Registering your business allows you to advertise business in public and also First, This isfind notout a must about butthe if you event areplanners ambitious already and want operating to move inonyour toyour relatively locality (check large-scale if there projects, are have similar then your own letterheads and These issue invoices. alsocan feelto comfortable when it isIf athe registered business, since to it's home-based highly recommended. businesses) and try options to seeClients' are howavailable you make beginners: a difference. others are not willing of trust. bethey too develop helpful aorsense to share information with you, maybe you can check with your friends and family for feedback a) University on events&organized College by Programsthem. ThisThese way, you are cancomprehensive also get an idea of programs how muchusually they charge offered for 5. Marketing events through and be sure hospitality that your departments charges areinwithin universities. the accepted According range.to Petersons.com, there are about Marketing plays a crucial role. No matter how good youcourses. are at being event planner or how out competitive 204 universities and colleges providing such It isanworthwhile to check whetheryou they are, ifcater people you,needs. you get business. visibility and of awareness is important. Competition to isdon't your veryknow specific important inwon't business. It givesSoyou a pulse the business, the way the industry is behaving and also how consumer preferences are changing. You can also visit many online 5.1 will I name the business professional b) What Certificate event Courses planning and sites Continuing and get some Education idea Programsabout how These they work. are mostly Initiallypart-time it is vital courses, that you What's in a name? More than you may realize! Your business name has to be snappy, provoking interest and understand whichthe arebusiness conveniently and the held processes during weekends thoroughly. or in Sothe spend evenings, a lot oftotime accommodate studying how those different who sticking in memory. Truth is the are rightalso name canflexible. maketoaevent big difference thesee success your marketing people are handle working. different The businesses. courses Fire some more calls plannerstoand what of they ask, how they campaign. The name is inextricably connected to the brand image you want to create too. So you need to get respondMajor and how event best to planning impressassociations customers first-hand. also offer professional certification programs. The moreadvantage creative than,here let's say, 'Quality Planners'.completion, you will be part of a wide network of is that, onEvent successful 3.2 What professionals is uniquein inthis them? field. 5.2 How will I create visibility for myself? for yourResources company or name can be done by leaflets, and also to offer makeunique your Once b) Visibility you Physical gather information from different types of eventbrochures planners,etc. you will seeremember that some presence in others each event you have.And Outalso your brand andhas contact number somewhere, so people can refer to things which don't offer. each name planner some different approach and offering which youaif customers they want your services. makes Even home-based prefer business them.cannot For example be run alone. it can be You where can approach the concept those andwho the you creative knowidea wellisfamily given free and friendsas a package, in orderor to where try to find they people provide who helpers will be to interested look after to the join kids you in atthis the line party of work. for free, Familiarity or even Portfolio provide will definitely a complete help torecorded streamline video event footage planning of theprocesses. event free.And it is a convenient way to go about until A portfolio is another very handy and user-friendly to show you have acquired the funds to hire qualified people,tool, if need be. what you can do. The best letters of (preferably having surnames that are different to yours!) and photographs of events you have 3.3recommendation How expensive are they? be selected and inserted here. They alone will be testimony to the good work that you have done To organized start, thecan necessary finances have to be in place. Initially, there will be several expenses, so a bank in the past. Clients and even vendors may prefer to have a look at your achievements, rather than hear it from The loan fees mayevent soundplanners like a good charge idea.isYou critical. need But to people invest in don't a high always speed go computer for the cheapest, with internet, because a fax, they a you. A portfolio will also indicate that you are keen and serious about your work. might color printer feel theand work themaybe paraphernalia cheap too. thatAnd goes they with would maintaining think twice a steady beforestream going to ofacorrespondence. premium priced planner, Needlesswhen to say, allathey mobile want phone is a small is a must party. have. Ideally Foryour transportation pricing should purposes, dependa from van or event a SUV to event is best,and as Web depend you will need on time ample youspace. need to spend, additional people you need to hire, amount of calls and traveling Nowadays, the internet is a marketer's dream. You are not 'in' if you are not on the web. So have a website or a involved and the size of the event itself. Event Planning Though you may start your business as a home-business, you need to register it, since there will be inflows and webpage dedicated to your business and be sure to update information regularly. A website with outdated information is worse than not having a website. Your portfolio can be posted online or a few choice photographs Therefore the best option is to provide packages/options. Give the consumer the option to choose and letters of recommendation can do the trick equally well. different packagescompetition at different prices, with certain options which can be add-ons. Once they decide on 3.Evaluating a package, throw in some other goodies (kids fun bouncer, flower décor for wedding car, free article on Blog local For any newspaper) business,for it is free. worthwhile This would to check make them out the happy competition, and also stick so that to you. your business aspirations are Perhaps one of the trendiest ways to market your services is by maintaining a blog. A blog is effective because not neatly overlapping with theirs. Since it is quite difficult for small business owners to spend too much it's informal and provides a steady flow of fresh content. Apart from providing useful information, it gives that all time and money on advertising and competing, for attention, the most sensible way is to grab a niche important personal touch to your business. You can use your blog as a two-way tool too. It allows the customer market that others have not encroached, although this may not be practical in some cases. to know what you can offer but also gives you insight on the customer too. This is a convenient alternative to time-consuming market/customer research. You can very well spend the time saved on improving your credentials. Copyright Copyright2008 2008Bizymoms.com Bizymoms.com 13 Personal interaction Formal 3.1 What qualifications do they offer? your spare time. What their favorite foods, what aretothe preferred doifthey likeare to go on First, This isfind notout a must about butthe ifare you event areplanners ambitious already and want operating move inonyour toactivities, relatively localitywhere (check large-scale there projects, similar then it's home-based highly recommended. businesses) andseem tryoptions totrivial see are how available you make beginners: a difference. If the others areare notplanning willing to holiday? This information These may at first butcan theyto can make all the difference when you besocial too helpful share information with you, maybe you canyou check yourprofiled friendsyour andpotential family for events,orinto order to create the right atmosphere. Plus, when havewith already feedback a) University on events &organized College by Programsthem. This These way, you are canwhen comprehensive alsoyou getare an entrusted idea of programs how usually theyan charge offered for customers, it will save you from having to fire away questions withmuch managing event. events through and be hospitality that your departments charges areinwithin universities. the accepted According range.an to image Petersons.com, there are about Perception willsure surely give you an edge over your competitors and create of competency. 204 universities and colleges providing such courses. It is worthwhile to check out whether they Competition cater to isyour veryspecific important needs. in business. It gives you a pulse of the business, the way the industry is If you are in the Social Events Market, then your marketing campaign should be more personal and more behaving and also how consumer preferences are changing. You can also visit many online emotional. Cheerful photos will boost your reputation in this field. On the other hand, if you are in the Corporate professional b) Certificate event Courses planning and sites Continuing and get some Education idea Programsabout how These they work. are mostly Initiallypart-time it is vital courses, that you Events sector, play it more sedate and professional. Zoom in on your efficiency and reliability. You can also understand whichthe arebusiness conveniently and the held processes during weekends thoroughly. or in Sothe spend evenings, a lot oftotime accommodate studying how those different who attend industry meetings, professional societies and chamber of commerce activities. It's about being in the peopleare handle working. different The businesses. courses are also Fire some more flexible. calls to event planners and see what they ask, how they right place at the right time. respondMajor and how event best to planning impressassociations customers first-hand. also offer professional certification programs. The advantage here is that, on successful completion, you will be part of a wide network of an event planning 3.2Advertising What professionals is for unique in inthis them? field. business may be a more effective branding strategy, than as a way to directly get customers. Ads in local papers, telephone directories, among others can help build name recognition. Once b) Direct you Physical gather information different event planners, see that some offerevent unique mail can Resources also be used from to attract new types clients,ofalbeit less effective.you Thewill Washington DC-based things which othersThe don't offer. And also each planner has some differentsection approach offering which planning business TCI Companies even include a “Strategy for Success” that and outlines how they makes Even a customers home-based prefer business them.cannot For example be run alone. it can be You where can approach the concept those andwho the you creative knowidea wellisfamily given work to make sure that every single event they handle is successful, complete with case studies about their free and friendsas a package, in orderor to where try to find they people provide who helpers will be to interested look after to the join kids you in atthis the line party of work. for free, Familiarity or even most prominent. provide will definitely a complete help torecorded streamline video event footage planning of theprocesses. event free.And it is a convenient way to go about until you have acquired the funds to hire qualified people, if need be. 6. Finances 3.3 How expensive are they? does not require a high investment, but you should have an idea of inflows and outflows. When To Event start,planning the necessary finances have to be in place. Initially, there will be several expenses, so a bank doing events, you may have to pay several advances to supplies and sometimes on internet, thebecause scale of the The loan fees mayevent soundplanners like a good charge idea. isYou critical. need But to people invest in don't a high always speed go computer for thebased cheapest, with a fax, they a event these can be costs. And the client pays you back only after event,stream so you to have to managepriced the might color printer feel theand work thehigh maybe paraphernalia cheap too. that And goes they with would maintaining think twice athe steady before going ofacorrespondence. premium cash inwhen that period. As want youphone get and make name for your business, you acan start credit planner, Needless to say, allathey mobile is experienced a small is a must party. have. Ideally Forayour transportation pricing should purposes, depend from van or event aasking SUV to for event is best, and as depend you will need on time ample youspace. need terms from suppliers where to youspend, don't tieadditional up cash. people you need to hire, amount of calls and traveling involved and the size of the event itself. Event Planning In order to attract customer, you have to think like the customers. Find out as much about them as possible, in 6.1 Start-up costs Therefore the best option to provide Givemarket, the consumer theseveral optionexpenses. to choose At the outset, depending onisyour business packages/options. aspirations and the target there will be different packagescompetition at different prices, with certain options which can be add-ons. Once they decide on 3.Evaluating Home-based businesses don't need to start out with much capital, as there are no overhead costs. But in a package, throw in some other goodies (kids fun bouncer, flower décor for wedding car, free article on general expenses are likely to be incurred for the following: local For any newspaper) business,for it is free. worthwhile This would to check make them out the happy competition, and also stick so that to you. your business aspirations are Advertising -brochures, leaflets, business cards not neatlyEquipment overlapping theirs. it is quite difficult for small business owners to spend too much -PC,with printer, fax,Since photocopy machine for on professional affiliations time and Fees money advertising and competing, for attention, the most sensible way is to grab a niche Insurance -business insurance market that others not encroached, although this may not be practical in some cases. Legal Feeshave & Accounting Licenses and Taxes Office Supplies -Stationery, furniture Payroll Phone/Utility Bills Miscellaneous Copyright Copyright2008 2008Bizymoms.com Bizymoms.com 14 6.2What Forecasting business Formal 3.1 qualifications do they offer? growth You know there are 140 kidsplanners between already the ages of 3-12 yearinon old in your area.(check 70% of if them willare havesimilar big First, This isfind notout athat must about butthe if you event are ambitious and want operating to move your to relatively locality large-scale there projects, then it's home-based highly recommended. businesses) These and tryoptions to are howavailable you make a difference. If planners. the others arehave not willing birthday celebrations. Among those 98see birthdays, 25%can willto bebeginners: outsourced to event If you 2 more to beevent too helpful orintoyour share you, maybe you can check your friends family planners area,information you can havewith an approximate idea that your targetwith should be at least 8and birthdays forfor feedback a)year. University on events&organized College by Programsthem. ThisThese way, you are cancomprehensive also get an idea of programs how muchusually they charge offered for the eventsthrough and be sure hospitality that your departments charges areinwithin universities. the accepted According range.to Petersons.com, there are about 204 universities and colleges providing such courses. It is worthwhile to check out whether they Next is the profit you expect to have. So if a birthday costs approximately US$ 2000, you can't expect a Competition cater to isyour veryspecific important needs. in business. It gives you a pulse of the business, the way the industry is margin of US$ 1000, because it is ridiculous for the host to spend 50% more just for planning. If you want behaving and also how consumer preferences are changing. You can also visit many online to make US$ 300 per birthday, then you will be making US $ 2400 for a year. But remember this is without professional b) Certificate event Courses planning and sites Continuing and get some Education idea Programsabout how These they work. are mostly Initiallypart-time it is vital courses, that you the expenses for equipment, furniture, utility bills, salaries etc. understand whichthe arebusiness conveniently and the held processes during weekends thoroughly. or in Sothe spend evenings, a lot oftotime accommodate studying how those different who peopleare handle working. different The businesses. courses are also Fire some more flexible. calls to event planners and see what they ask, how they 6.3 Am I happy with the profits? respondMajor and how event best to planning impressassociations customers first-hand. also offer professional certification programs. The Therefore, you willhere be leftiswith approx. US$ 500-1000. Is this sufficient? Maybe advantage that, on successful completion, you will be and partmaybe of a not, widedepending network of your expectations. the only way to increase the profits is to do more events per year and get 3.2on What professionals is uniquein inBut this them? field. involved in larger scale events, which can give higher margins. But then again larger the event, more Once b) commitment you Physical gather Resources information from different types of event planners, you will see that some offer unique and time you need to sacrifice. things which others don't offer. And also each planner has some different approach and offering which makes Even a customers home-based prefer business them.cannot For example be run alone. it can be You where can approach the concept those andwho the you creative knowidea wellisfamily given 7. Growing the business free and friendsas a package, in orderor to where try to find they people provide who helpers will be to interested look after to the join kids you in atthis the line party of work. for free, Familiarity or even You may start this business as a part time activity; something to keep your mind buzzing… but it's always provide will definitely a complete help torecorded streamline video event footage planning of theprocesses. event free.And it is a convenient way to go about until good to have a direction and goals in the long term. you have acquired the funds to hire qualified people, if need be. 3.3 How expensive are they? Vision for my business To 7.1 start, the necessary finances have to be in place. Initially, there will be several expenses, so a bank You should develop for your business. This should be short and go specific and bewith the internet, achievable, yet The loan fees mayevent sound planners like aa vision good charge idea. isYou critical. need But to people invest in don't a high always speed computer for the cheapest, because a fax, they a difficult reach. This shouldcheap be the too. driving force behind every single you stream undertake. need to priced might color printer feeltothe and work the maybe paraphernalia thatAnd goes they with would maintaining think twice aevent steady before going to ofaYou correspondence. premium have awhen dream for your business, only then would you know what you need to achieve withor each activity. planner, Needless to say, all athey mobile want phone is a small is a must party. have. Ideally Foryour transportation pricing should purposes, depend a from van event a SUV to event is best,and as depend you will need on time ample youspace. need to spend, additional people you need to hire, amount of calls and traveling involved and the size of the event itself. 8. Summary Event Planning Then you need to anticipate how your business needs to grow. A small calculation can help you. The most important things to remember in event planning is to make it a memorable event. The function Therefore the best option is toactivity. provide theevaluators consumerof the option choose should run smoothly with each Andpackages/options. at the end of the dayGive the best an event aretothe different packagescompetition at different prices, with certain options which can be add-ons. Once they decide on 3.Evaluating guests or participants. So make them happy, give what they need, feel what the crowds will ask for and a package, throw in some other goodies (kids fun bouncer, flower décor for wedding car, free article on give it to them, and that will be your success. local For any newspaper) business,for it is free. worthwhile This would to check make them out the happy competition, and also stick so that to you. your business aspirations are not neatly overlapping with theirs. Since it is quite difficult for small business owners to spend too much time and money on advertising and competing, for attention, the most sensible way is to grab a niche market that others have not encroached, although this may not be practical in some cases. Copyright 2008 Bizymoms.com No part of this work may be copied or transferred in any way without expressed written permission from Bizymoms.com Copyright 2008 Bizymoms.com 15