Five Things To Consider Before Starting Up A
Party Planning Business
Author: Lynn Powers

So you adore planning parties and your friends have been
telling you for ages that you should start up your own party or
event planning business. It's something you're seriously
considering but aren't sure exactly what will be involved. Here
are a few things to think about before accepting that first job.


1. Start Small. If the thought of planning a large event
overwhelms you, start with a small get-together. Offer to plan
your friend's bridal shower or a niece's baby shower at no
charge, to get a feel for just what is involved with planning a
party for someone else.

Another option is to volunteer at a couple of large social
events or shadow an established party planner for an evening.
Write down your questions to ask when the party winds down so
you're not interrupting during the whirl of activity.

2. The Name Game. Creating a clever and catchy name for your
business is essential. Sue's Party Planning Business simply
won't cut it. Ask for opinions, brainstorm, even do some
research to come up with a name that not only encompasses your
business, but is easy to remember, particularly when you create
a website for people to check out.

3. Costs involved. This really depends on the size of the
parties you intend on planning. In most cases, the supplies will
be paid for by the client, not by you. If anything, you may need
to pay for the items and get reimbursed for them later. For
birthday parties, showers, and small gatherings, these supplies
will mainly consist of items purchased at a party store,
florist, or grocery store. For larger events, you may need to
hire outside vendors and services.

You may also choose to invest in specific party props,
equipment and decorations that your clients will be able to use.
Whether or not you charge for each one individually or include
your items in the overall fee is up to you. Another option is
for you to rent specific items as needed.

The nice thing about party planning is you are providing a
service, not a product. Besides a computer and a good organizing
system or planner, your costs are minimal.

4. How much to charge. Again, this will vary, depending on the
amount of work involved. You may want to set a standard flat fee
per event type (such as bridal shower, kids birthday party,
etc.) and add the necessary additional costs. The client will be
responsible for all of the party supplies and items, and will
pay you to ensure that everything is set up, arranged, and runs
smoothly. If you choose to charge by the hour, be sure your
rates are competitive. While you don't want to be the most
expensive in town, your time and expertise is valuable. It's
great to offer deals from time to time but don't regularly
undercharge so that when all is said and done, you end up
earning a mere $4 an hour. This sets you up for word getting
around that you are willing to do a lot of work at an extremely
low cost. Burn-out, not to mention disappointment, are
inevitable.

5. Do your homework. There is no such thing as too much
research. Cover all of your bases when it comes to technical
things like taxes and contracts. Call around to local vendors
you may need to call at some point. Inquire about prices and the
exact products and services each company offers. Have all of
this information available to show potential clients. The more
you have to present, the more professional you will appear and
the more appealing your service will be.

The party planning business can be fun and lucrative. And
starting a successful business will give you an excellent reason
to celebrate!


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