In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through launching an event management business from scratch — from planning to registration, branding to marketing, and growing. Whether you're a seasoned planner or simply a just-out-of-school event enthusiast, this guide will help you build a successful business.
The global event management industry is booming. According to Allied Market Research, the events market was in excess of $1,135 billion in 2019 and will grow tremendously by 2028. It is fueled by corporate events, entertainment events, and private events. Going into an event management business allows you to catch this growing market, be your own boss, and earn good money doing something that you love doing.
Here is a step by step guide to start an event management business:
Spend time learning about the event management business before you dive in. You need to understand what services event planners offer, what their clients require, and how the business operates.
Types of events you can specialize in:
Corporate events (conferences, product launches)
Weddings and private parties
Music festivals or sports events
Fundraisers and charity galas
Trade shows and exhibitions
Research local competition to identify what services are required where you are and how you can offer something unique.
Having a solid business plan is crucial when starting any business. Your event management business plan must include:
Business objectives
Target market
Services offered
Competitor study
Pricing strategy
Marketing strategy
Financial projections
A strong business plan not only will help guide you but also assist in securing funding when the time comes.
Choose a business name that is simple to remember, memorable, and illustrates your services. Make sure it's available as a domain name and register a professional website address.
Then, choose the legal business structure:
Sole proprietorship
Partnership
Limited liability company (LLC)
Corporation
Register your business with the local government and secure all required licenses and permits. Don't forget to apply for a tax ID if it's needed.
Branding makes a significant contribution to your event management company's success. It says a lot about your professionalism, creativity, and values to potential customers.
Key branding aspects:
Logo design
Tagline or slogan
Brand colors and fonts
Web design
Social media accounts
Your website should showcase your services, display a gallery of previous events (or mockups for beginners), testimonials, and a contact form.
Each event is different, and so should your services. Start to determine what you will offer.
Possible services:
Event planning and coordination
Vendor management
Venues booking
Catering coordination
Theme development
Audio-visual production
On-site management
Create packages (entry, premium, luxury) to accommodate various budgets. Price your services competitively but ensure that you are covering your time and expenses.
You do not need an elaborate office to start off. An office at home with a phone, computer, and access to the internet will do initially.
Most important tools and software:
Event planning software (like Trello, Asana, or Eventbrite)
Customer relationship management (CRM) tools
Invoicing and accounting tools (like QuickBooks or FreshBooks)
Design tools (like Canva for creating invites and promotion materials)
Invest in basic office supplies and form relationships with vendors such as florists, caterers, DJs, decorators, and photographers.
In the initial stages, your priority would be to create a solid portfolio. Provide your services at a reduced fee or even for free to friends and relatives for their events. Take good-quality photographs and videos of the event, and obtain testimonials.
This experience will assist you:
Understand real-life event challenges
Build confidence
Establish a professional reputation
Create content for your website and social media
Successful marketing is key to getting clients. Begin by promoting your business online and offline.
Create an SEO-friendly website with keywords like event planner, wedding coordinator, corporate event organizer, etc.
Create a social media presence (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn)
Upload photos, behind-the-scenes videos, and customer reviews
Network with suppliers and in-town businesses
Promote your services on on-line directories
Place Google Ads or social media ads to your local market
Protect your business with event insurance. It can insure:
General liability
Professional liability
Damage to property
Cancellation coverage
You may either hire a legal expert or use templates specifically designed for event planning businesses.
Once your event planning business grows, you may have more help needed to manage. Start hiring part-time aides or freelancers for larger projects.
Full-service event planning
Destination event management
In-house decoration or catering
Equipment rental (such as lighting, seating)
The events industry is evolving. Trends, technologies, and customer expectations change on a regular basis. Be one step ahead by:
Attending workshops and expos
Membership in event planner associations
Reading industry-related blogs and magazines
Taking certified event planning courses
Staying updated keeps you latest and innovative, and you get a competitive edge in the market.
Starting an event management business requires planning, patience, and persistence. From creating a solid business plan to branding and marketing, every step matters. Keep your attention on delivering exceptional experiences and building long-term relationships with vendors and customers. Whether it is a wedding, a product launch, or a gala, every successful event adds to your brand value and your reputation. You now know how to open an event management business. It's time to put your plan into practice. Don't wait for the ideal moment and learn event management at London Crown Institute of Training and develop your brand, network, and grow event by event!
