As an Event Planner Columbia, SC, you orchestrate and manage events that connect with attendees and meet client objectives. Your responsibilities are varied, from the glitz of Hollywood premieres to the logistics of a tech company’s product launch. To thrive in this career, you need to possess a combination of skills: event management, vendor coordination and customer service. You also need creativity to think outside the box and a flexible approach to solving problems when they arise, says Kaitlyn Hostetler, marketing manager of EVOKE, an event-design, planning and management firm in Washington, DC.
To stand out from the competition, create an online portfolio that features photos, videos, testimonials and results that demonstrate your value to clients. Link it to your social media, and promote it at events you attend to generate interest and exposure for your brand. This helps build trust and leads to referrals.
In the first meeting with a potential client, listen closely to their needs and goals for the event. Take notes and ask questions to ensure that you understand their vision. Then prepare a proposal that speaks directly to those needs. The proposal should include a timeline that includes key milestones for the event and deadlines for securing vendors. It should also provide a cost estimate or range based on the services you will provide. This allows you to set expectations for how much the event will cost and lets clients know that additional expenses, such as a venue rental fee, could be required.
When drafting the proposal, be sure to include your qualifications and previous experience in the industry. You should also include a list of your professional associations and relevant certifications. For example, if you’re organizing a charity event for a women’s health initiative, include the organization’s mission and details about its accomplishments. This shows your dedication to the cause and demonstrates that you have the expertise to deliver an impactful event.
Throughout the event planning process, keep in close contact with the client to stay abreast of any changes or issues that may come up. For example, if the client wants to add an extra table or change the location, you need to be able to respond quickly and effectively. You might even need to remain on site during the event, especially for a wedding or corporate event, in case anything goes wrong.
To expand your business, reach out to influential bloggers and influencers who can help spread the word about your events. You can also partner with other organizations or businesses to help defray costs and increase the scope of your audience. In addition, be sure to offer incentives and special discounts to attract new customers. Finally, it’s important to maintain a blog that highlights your successes and provides helpful tips for others in the industry. This will help you establish your expert status and generate more business opportunities.