How to Become A Destination Wedding Planner
Do you dream of getting the opportunity to plan a couple’s special day? Work with other like-minded and creative people from all over the world? My career as a destination wedding planner gives me that and so much more.
After years in my profession, I am ready to share my experience to help others achieve the same. There are so many rewarding aspects to being a destination wedding planner. From experiencing different cultures and traditions to having the honor of seeing my couples happy on their wedding day. I’m here to answer all your questions to get you started in this profession.
What is the difference between a destination and a local wedding planner?
Local wedding planners generally work with couples within their state. A destination wedding planner works with couples whose weddings are more than 100 miles away from where the couple lives. For example, I may work with a couple based out of New York to plan their special day in Tuscany.
It’s very important that as a wedding planner, you have a network of vendors wherever the wedding is taking place. There is a lot of work that goes into researching and meeting with vendors. Generally organizing projects or styled shoots is a great way to get to know the vendors before referring them to our clients. This type of relationship-building develops over years and is a crucial part of what couples trust their planners with - their expertise.
Does this profession require a degree or certification?
There is neither a specific degree nor certification you need to become a wedding planner. With that said, I personally believe that it is a culmination of skills and dedication to the profession that allows for success.
For example, I have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Oregon State University. My degree has helped me navigate the foundation of starting a business. From finding my target audience and developing a marketing plan, to executing administrative and strategic efforts.
However, studying in a different country has also gotten me out of my comfort zone and has pushed my boundaries. It has broadened my horizons and taught me that I have the ability to create whatever it is I want to achieve.
Before starting my own business, I worked with other wedding planners. This kind of hands-on experience was the most beneficial for my business. I educate myself constantly by reading books, attending industry events or seminars, listening to podcasts, and staying connected with other professionals.
What are some steps one should do to get started?
Reflect on your strengths: Are you super organized and can juggle many tasks at once? Are you a good leader or do you prefer to work co-lead a project? Are you a people person? Can you stay calm in high-pressure situations? All of these are questions to ask yourself before getting into this profession. Reflecting on these answers will help you determine if this is a fitting role for you.
Do your research: A lot of people have the image of a wedding planner lighting candles and putting pretty decorations on a table while sipping champagne. This career is so much more than how it’s actually perceived. Make sure to do your research on the different tasks and coordinating skills a wedding planner is required to do. Learning in-depth will give you realistic expectations of what this job entails. Try seeking advice from other planners and vendors about the industry and their experience in working with wedding couples.
Get hands-on experience: Planning a styled shoot to build a network is great, but not always the real deal. Actual experience is essential. One of the best ways to get hands-on experience is to reach out to local wedding planners and event designers for intern or assistant positions. The best time to coordinate this is close to peak wedding season. For most countries, peak wedding season falls between the Spring and Fall seasons of the year.
We love that no weddings are the same. Even though it may seem like a similar framework, we get to design and plan a day unique to our couples. To us, it feels like a new experience with each opportunity we get. If this is something you’ve been considering, we are here to support you on this journey.
