5 Things to Ask Yourself Before Starting Your Wedding Planning Business

Think you have what it takes to start your own wedding planning business? You just might! But before you take the plunge, there are some crucial questions you need to ask yourself. Grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and keep reading for the five essential questions to consider before starting your wedding planning business!

1. What draws you to the industry?

The first thing you need to understand is your "why." What draws you to the wedding industry? While some wedding professionals have pursued this path as a lifelong dream, many of us stumbled into it by chance. To be fully transparent, I never dreamed of becoming a wedding planner. It was a twist of fate—after accepting a sales job at Marriott, I discovered that my skill set was a perfect match for wedding planning. So, what’s your story? Whether it’s a burning passion or a happy accident, knowing your motivation is key.

2. How can you translate your current skills into being a planner?

My experience at Marriott taught me a lot about the event industry and the hard work that goes into executing flawless wedding days. My right-hand woman, Gina, got into the wedding industry fresh out of college, knowing she was a multitasking and administrative maven. She used her superpowers to organize room blocks and table settings effortlessly. Think about your own background—whether it's in sales, administration, or another field entirely—and how those skills can be your secret weapon in wedding planning.

Want proof that you too can be a fabulous wedding industry professional? Wedding pros in my free Facebook group for wedding pros shared how they got started: 

Here are a few industries and skills that will make you an incredible wedding planner:

• Teachers can transfer their people management skills, creativity, and dedication to fostering growth to the wedding industry. Their experience in organizing activities, managing diverse personalities, and maintaining patience under pressure equips them to handle the complex logistics and emotional dynamics of wedding planning with grace and efficiency.

• Administrative workers can bring their organizational skills, attention to detail, and multitasking abilities to the wedding industry. Their experience in managing schedules, coordinating logistics, and ensuring everything runs smoothly translates perfectly into planning seamless wedding events.

• Hospitality professionals can transfer their customer service expertise, crisis management skills, and ability to create memorable experiences to the wedding industry. Their background in anticipating guests' needs, handling high-pressure situations, and ensuring a delightful experience makes them well-suited for orchestrating unforgettable wedding celebrations.

These are just a few of the countless examples! Take the time to dive deep and do some self-discovery to understand what unique skills you bring to the table and how they can translate into exceptional service for your clients. Whether you're a teacher, an admin worker, a hospitality professional, or from another field entirely, your background holds valuable tools that can help you thrive in the wedding industry.

3. How do you legally set up and protect yourself and your new business? 

Navigating the legal aspects is crucial for your success and peace of mind. Start by choosing a business structure that suits your needs, such as an LLC or sole proprietorship, and registering your business name. Obtain any necessary licenses and permits required in your area. It’s also essential to get the right insurance to protect against potential liabilities. Don’t forget to draft clear contracts for your clients to outline services, payment terms, and policies. Consulting with a legal professional can ensure you cover all your bases and set up your wedding planning business on solid ground.

My go-to? Legally Set! Their done-for-you contracts will have your business protected in no time! Get 20% off here using the code VAULT. Take my word for it, you need a professional contract right from the start. 

4. Is business ownership right for you? 

Entrepreneurship isn’t always sunshine and rainbows—I’ve recently delved into this topic on the Weddings For Real podcast. Being realistic and upfront with yourself about the challenges and rewards of running your own business is essential.

Now, onto the exciting part: What sets you apart as a business owner? Understanding your unique strengths is key to gaining a competitive edge, attracting ideal clients, and uncovering tailored opportunities. To help you pinpoint your CEO superpower, I’ve crafted a quiz—completely free! Take it now to ensure you’re on the right path. Ready to discover your potential? Take the quiz!

5. Do you have a community for support? 

Last but certainly not least, having a support system is crucial for navigating the highs and lows of business ownership. Having someone in your corner who truly understands what you're going through can make all the difference.

That's why I founded The Planner's Vault—an online membership designed specifically for wedding professionals like you who are ready to level up without the overwhelm. It's a unique blend of courses, coaching, and community where you can find the support and guidance you need to thrive in your business. Join us and discover the power of having a supportive network by your side!

Now that you have these five important questions before you dive into starting your wedding planning business, you're on the right track! It all starts with understanding your love for the industry and how your skills fit in. Then, make sure you set up your business the right way legally, and think carefully about whether running a business is really your thing. Lastly, find a supportive group to help you along the way. With these steps, you'll be ready to jump into the industry with confidence. I'm here cheering you on every step of the way!