How to get into event planning?

How to Get Experience in Event Planning

• Answer:

  There were approximately 56,950 event planners in the country as of May 2010, a Bureau of Labor Statistics survey found. Joining their ranks may require quite a bit of planning. Although the event planning industry has no specific requirements for education or experience, earning experience in everything from decor to design can only help you secure a job. Plan your way into a career in the industry by acquiring related experience. Difficulty: Moderate Instructions Join an events planning organization such as the International Special Events Society, which offers local chapters, national seminars, conferences and online training and information on its website. Membership requires a fee, which is prorated throughout a year and is discounted for nonprofit organizations and students. The Event Planners Association also offers trade shows, marketing, online education and a newsletter for a single price for all membership levels. Check the websites of events planning companies in your local area for job openings. Even if none are listed, contact the managers to inquire about internships, apprenticeships or even shadowing at a single event. An events planning manager may find it hard to turn down a free extra set of hands at a busy event and you'll get an on-the-ground viewpoint of how things work in the industry. Volunteer to head up event planning for a family gathering, upcoming work occasion, church group, community organization or other occurrence. This may be especially well-received by people who cannot afford an event planning service but who still want to benefit from someone else organizing their affair. Enroll in an event-planning educational course. Schools such as Edmonds Community College in Washington state offer both online and classroom programs in event planning, which may lead to a certificate, two-year associate degree or four-year bachelor's degree. You'll receive both classroom training or the online equivalent and hands-on learning by participating in and running your own events. Practice event-planning skills by designing your own virtual events. Create a campaign for an event, such as a Bat Mitzvah or a golden anniversary, comprising of everything from materials such as sample invitations and response cards to color layouts of seating and table arrangements. Treat the virtual event as if it were real. After creating several events, you'll have gained experience and will have a portfolio to show off to prospective customers.