How to Become an Event Planner

Event planning is one of the most exciting careers in the spectrum of professions, but it can also be extremely challenging and competitive. But the good news is, if you are outgoing, a people person, thrive on adrenaline and creativity, you may very well be a successful event planner in the making! Key to your decision-making process needs to be evaluating educational goals coupled with taking a deep dive into becoming an intern.

Education for Event Planner

Depending on what type of event planning you aspire to, corporate event planning will require some form of degree or certification. Your best bet is to study the colleges and universities offering degrees in event management, hospitality, marketing, or a related field. When researching colleges be sure to ascertain whether or not the institution is accredited. It is imperative to earn a degree from a reputable and respected college or university. There are a plethora of options at esteemed institutions of higher learning, both on campus and online. If you cannot financially afford to attend a four-year program initially, consider attending a junior or community college to satisfy your general education requirements. One important thing to remember—make sure your credits from the junior or community college will transfer to the 4-year college you are interested in eventually attending.

You may want to try to break into the industry by starting at the bottom and working your way up the ladder, but the wisest use of your time and money is to first earn a bachelor’s degree. Several accredited colleges and universities offer Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees in Hospitality Management or related fields, which may include concentrations or coursework in event planning. Here are a few examples of institutions known for their hospitality management programs (which encompasses event planning), and a brief description of their degrees in their own words.

University of Central Florida (UCF)

One of the most popular destinations for those wanting a tropical, yet event-filled vacation is Florida. Their Rosen College of Hospitality Management offers a Bachelor’s of Science in Event Management (BS). In their words,

“Event planning is a highly complex and dynamic field that comes with many challenges and opportunities. The BS in Event Management program provides you with the theoretical and practical tools needed to lead the future of the event industry. Our program provides you with a toolbox of resources, best practices and other skills needed to succeed.”

University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV)

As one of the resort and event capitals of the world, it’s natural for Las Vegas to be the home to one of the most prestigious hospitality programs available. In their words,

“UNLV’s William F. Harrah College of Hospitality offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management. Our program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of hospitality operations, including resort management principles and practices.”

To give you an idea of their dedication to a well-rounded hospitality degree, visit this article they have written for aspiring event planners: https://www.unlv.edu/event-planning

Johnson & Wales University

“Johnson & Wales University has campuses in multiple locations, including Providence, Rhode Island, and Denver, Colorado. We offer a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management with a concentration in Resort and Hotel Management. As a student, you will learn about various aspects of resort operations, including guest services, food and beverage management, and event planning.”

Florida International University (FIU)

“FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management with a specialization in Resort & Spa Management. The program covers topics such as resort development, operations management, sustainable tourism practices, and event planning.”

Michigan State University

“Michigan State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Business with a concentration in Club Management and Resorts. The program emphasizes business fundamentals as well as specialized coursework in resort management, club operations, and guest services.”

Penn State University

“The School of Hospitality Management at Penn State offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management with an emphasis in Club and Resort Management. Our students learn about various aspects of managing resorts and clubs, including financial management, marketing, and guest relations.”

Internships and Trade Associations/Professional Networking

Experience is key in becoming a successful event planner. The best and most desirable way to gain experience is through interning with a reputable company. Internships also lead to jobs and are typically geared for those still working on their bachelor’s degree. The quickest way to find internships is by joining a trade association or professional organization (most all have student memberships). These organizations are also the lifeblood of the industry and will keep you in the loop as to all things event planning. They offer everything from free classes to mentoring programs.

There are several professional associations which encompass event planning, and offer valuable resources, networking opportunities, and an updating in industry standards. Here are some prominent associations:

Meeting Professionals International (MPI)

MPI is one of the largest associations for meeting and event professionals. It offers education, networking opportunities, and a certification program. They have annual conferences and events, Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation, and extensive online resources and courses.

Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA)

PCMA focuses on the business events industry, offering educational programs, industry research, and networking opportunities.

International Live Events Association (ILEA)

ILEA provides a global community for creative event professionals, emphasizing collaboration, education, and inspiration. They have Esprit Awards for excellence in event planning, educational webinars and local chapter events, and creative resources and networking opportunities.

Here are some of the corporations currently offering event planning related internships.

David Stark Design and Production: Known for high-end events, often offers internships in New York City.
Eventive: Specializes in experiential marketing and events, offering internships in various locations.
Marriott International: Frequently offers internships in event management at their hotels and resorts worldwide.
Hyatt Hotels Corporation: Offers internships in event planning and coordination.
Make-A-Wish Foundation: Often has internships available for those interested in planning fundraising and wish-granting events.
American Red Cross: Offers internships for those interested in planning blood drives, fundraising events, and disaster relief efforts.
Live Nation: Offers internships in event planning, production, and marketing for concerts and festivals.
Warner Media: Provides internships for planning corporate events, premieres, and special screenings.

Job Outlook For Event Planners

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (https://www.bls.gov/), Event Planners have positive job opportunities for the time period spanning 2022-2032. The field is growing by 8% per year, which is in contrast to the 6% average growth rate with other professions. Government experts predict that each year over 15,200 openings will become available (between 2022-2032), due to replacing workers who leave the profession, leave the work force and/or retire. Those openings are more than the openings currently being experienced in the majority of professions. In 2022 there were 132,000 individuals working as event planners. The median pay per year was $56,920, while the median hourly wage was $27.36. (As a reminder, the “median” amount is not an average, it is the middle value of a dataset. For the U.S. BLS definition go to: https://www.bls.gov/cps/definitions.htm#medianearnings).

Begin Today!

You aspire to enter a competitive profession—be prepared to meet the challenges. Learn how to be best-in-class utilizing formal educational avenues and obtaining an internship, along with joining/participating in a professional or trade association. If you need to work through your educational process, consider getting an entry-level position in order to hone your skills and develop self-confidence. You can do anything you set your mind to, begin today becoming the very best event planner possible!