I'm thinking of starting a Wedding Planning Business...?

Anyone know where to start? My best friend and I are helping so many people with their weddings lately and we thought that it would be fun to do this. We have a lot of the resources like friends to help with a website and bakers, caterers, florists, dj's and access to a company that would give us deals on stuff that you'd need for receptions. Our significant others are on board with us wanting to do this too. We just don't know where to start. Anyone a wedding planner or know one that could offer some advice? It would be greatly appreciated!!!

I'm thinking of starting a Wedding Planning Business...?
You should do what anyone starting any kind of business should do...put together a Business Plan. This will help you think through all the aspects/costs/etc. of running the business.





It's good you have some resources but it takes more than just that network...


You have to have a good planning system (you will be dealing with HIGH stress, particular clients.)


What kind of arrangement will you make with referred vendors?


How will you charge?


How will you collect?


What kind of contracts will you structure?


What kind of capacity will you have (how will you handle it if you have a two weddings in one day??)


Remember "friends to help with websites, etc" are just that. I suggest you consider paying for services either from your friends or others (you get what you pay for). A friend developing a website on the side isn't going to be as responsive as a paid web developer.





Take a very serious approach to it. Plan it out and you can really succeed!





Good luck!
Reply:Wow good Luck, it is a great career. I am a Conference and Banqueting Supervisor .Weddings were my Specialty. I have thought about this as well ,I wish you all the best in your new venture.
Reply:I am also a Wedding Planner. I have a degree in Marketing and I am Certified by the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada.





I would suggest taking a course - there are so many legalities to know. A wedding is the biggest day of a lot of people's lives and one mistake can open you up to a world of lawsuits. There are so many laws and regulations that apply to Wedding Planners that do not apply to Event Planners - because messing up someones Christmas Party is a lot different than messing up a wedding.





You mentioned various deals from suppliers -





It is illegal to take "deals" from a vendor for yourself. For example if Joe's Floral Shop offers you 10% of every dollar of business you get for him. It is illegal to take it. You are being paid by the bride and groom and you can t double dip.





Then you will start recommending Joe's flower shop to all of your brides all the while you are receiving kickbacks from Joe.





This is illegal because you are recommending Joe's Flower Shop not because he is the best choice for your client but because he is giving you money on the side.





You should recommend the vendor that is best for this couple not the one who is giving you $$ on the side.