How to Learn Bridal Consulting

As a bridal consultant, you can make wedding dreams come true.

Weddings are a joyous occasions that couples tend to remember for a lifetime. When a bride envisions her wedding, she usually has certain expectations and ideas in mind to make it a perfect day. Unfortunately, most people are so busy in that pulling off that perfect vision can be challenging, if not impossible. If you love the logistics and details involved with weddings, becoming a bridal consultant not only could be a fulfilling career for you, it also could allow you to realize many brides' wedding dreams. There are several routes you can take in learning to become a bridal consultant, most of which can be done on your schedule.

Things You'll Need

• Computer Internet access

Instructions

1. Take home-study courses. Many of these courses are accessible online or through home-study materials. The Association of Certified Professional Wedding Consultants (ACPWC), for example, offers a training course that covers all aspects of wedding consultancy, from working with clients to selecting vendors and establishing your prices. After completing some formal training, you're eligible to become a member of certain wedding-related associations and receive their certification.

2. Attend live classes. Although home and online courses are convenient, there also are live classes. Some classes may be held once or twice a year, while others occur regularly as part of a semester or session. Search for wedding planner classes at your community college in your area.These can last from a few days to several months.

3. Learn on the job. This provides hands-on experience that you don't receive from study programs. Apply for a job as an assistant to a respected bridal consultant. Work as an assistant for at least a year to learn the business and experience wedding consulting during all seasons of the year.

4. Hire a bridal consultant mentor. This may be a good option if you're ready to start a wedding planner business, but want guidance from an experienced consultant. Go online and search for bridal consultants who offer training or mentoring programs for a fee. Choose a mentor who has solid wedding experience and references. Mentoring sessions usually take place over the telephone or on an as-needed basis.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're uncertain about the authenticity of a training program, check the Better Business Bureau for any complaints against the program.

References

• ACPWC: Wedding Planner Courses
• Entrepreneur: How to Become a Wedding Consultant

Resources

• Weddings Beautiful Worldwide: Wedding Certification
• Association of Bridal Consultants: Home Study Program