Education Needed to Become a Wedding Planner
There are several educational routes you can take to become a wedding planner. Professional wedding planning organizations offer courses both in classrooms and online. Many online institutions offer courses in wedding planning and consulting. Community colleges also offer certificate programs in this field. Alternately, a degree from a college or university, such as a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management, provides a solid foundation for a career as a wedding planner.
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Professional Organzations
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Programs are offered online, through correspondence courses or at special workshops and training session. Many of these organizations award a certification to those who complete their program. Programs last from several weeks to several months. Some can be completed at the student's own pace.
Online
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In addition to on-ine training offered by professional organizations, many online institutes offer programs in wedding planning or bridal consulting. These programs often culminate in a certificate of completion.
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Community Collge
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Community colleges are another venue for wedding planning education programs. These programs may award a certificate of completion or a 2-year associate's degree.
Degree Programs
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Many 4-year colleges and universities offer related degrees, such as a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management. These degrees provide broader knowledge on subjects that apply to the wedding planning industry, such as project coordination, customer service, business skills and marketing.
Wedding Planning Skills
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Wedding planners need a basic understanding of all the elements involved in a wedding, such as flowers, formal attire, food and drink, entertainment, churches and reception venues.
Project Coordination Skills
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On the day of the event, the wedding planner must ensure that all of the pieces come together. The planner must have knowledge of time management and how to communicate effectively with all parties involved.
Business Skills
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Since many wedding consultants are self-employed, business management skills are essential. Wedding planners need knowledge of basic accounting and finance, sales, marketing and the ability to manage budgets. Planners also need to understand contracts and negotiations with vendors.
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