How To Become An Event Planner In South Africa

An event planner, also known as an event coordinator or event specialist, is a professional responsible for organizing and coordinating meetings and special events, such as ceremonies, parties, weddings, corporate gatherings and fundraisers.

Can event planning be a side job?

For those looking at event planning as a second career, this is an awesome opportunity. … A lot of event planning can be done after hours and on the weekend, but occasionally, you may need to take some time off. We recommend approaching the subject with your boss before you take on clients.

What makes an event successful?

It’s often been said that the success of anything stems from good planning. So, if you’re wondering what makes an event successful, then the best way to start is by making sure it is planned meticulously, comprehensively and accurately. And that means getting things moving well in advance.

Is there money in party planning?

There are tons of event planners that make more than six figures a year by planning their own simple and fun events. But planning your own events is just one way that you can make huge earnings. Helping other people plan their events can be just as profitable, if not more!

Below are steps to Become An Event Planner In South Africa

Complete a bachelor’s degree

Generally, professionals are required to earn a bachelor’s degree in meeting and event management. Some of the courses that students may complete in these programs include human resource management, event sales and sponsorships, financial accounting, agreement negotiating, and relationship management.

People can also enter the field by earning a degree in business management, marketing, public relations, communications, or hospitality management.

Get hands-on experience

In order to put their classroom studies into practice, students should get hands-on experience planning events on their own or by participating in an internship at an event planning company.

Aspiring planners can gain experience by volunteering for activities at their school, such as helping the student union plan concerts, comedy shows, festivals, and sporting events.

Learn industry technology

Event planners are required to master programs that are used in the industry, including project management, customer relationship management, and sales and marketing software.

Some specific programs these professionals may use include Marketo Marketing Automation, Microsoft Project, Blackbaud The Raiser’s Edge, Convention Industry Council CIC APEX Toolbox, and Active Network EventRegister.

Choose a specialization

While some event planners are generalists, others choose to specialize in a certain type of event—especially if they want to start their own business. Some of the niches people can focus on include weddings, birthdays, business meetings, conferences, fundraisers, mall events, and corporate retreats.

How do I start an events company in South Africa?

Starting an Events Company?

What You Should Know

Listen to your client. .

Always be a step ahead. .

Brainstorm for ideas.

Create memorable, immersive experiences.

Be authentic.

Don’t be scared to share your ideas and to collaborate.

Use social media to stand out.

Create a website and show-stopping portfolio.

Is Event Planning a good career?

Absolutely! The industry is growing, and events are only getting better. For people who feel they have the skills to succeed in the world of events, event management makes a great career.

How long does it take to become an event planner?

Event planners who start their careers after earning a certificate or degree can take one to four years to get started. Some gain a few years of related experience working in hotels or other hospitality businesses before becoming event planners.

How much does it cost to start an event planning business?

You should plan to set aside at least R 219178.95 to R 219178.95to start a small event planning business.

Do I need a degree to be an event planner?

To become an event planner, you will typically need a Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing or Hospitality Management. Individuals without a degree may qualify for an entry-level position, but they should have at least one to two years of experience in the field.

How do I become a virtual event planner?

Key Skills Needed for Successful Virtual Events

Be knowledgeable of the best virtual platforms.

Know what a good livestream looks like.

Understand best practices for hosting a virtual conference.

Knowing how to measure the success of a virtual event.

Have up-to-date knowledge of the latest restrictions for in-person events.

Is it free to host an event on Eventbrite?

Eventbrite is free to use for free events!

Is it difficult to become an event planner?

In reality it is hard work. It involves long, long hours and plenty of pressure to ensure everything goes to plan. If you are looking for a set 9 to 5 job this probably isn’t the career for you to choose.

Do event planners get benefits?

One of the benefits of being an event planner is that you often get special access to unique experiences, people, and places not typically available to the public.

What education do you need to become an event planner?

Many event planners that work in the field have public relations, communications, and business degrees. There are many aspects of all of those fields that carry over into event planning and hospitality. One important event planning qualification when entering the field is work experience.