Are you thinking of starting your wedding planning business in 2015? I’ve found that this is the time of year when people start thinking about the changes they want to make in the future.
If you currently have a full time job and think that you might want to quit to have a wedding planning business sometime in 2015, here are 5 ways to prepare for your transition:
1) Create a business plan
Take the time to think about what you want your business to look like. Who are the brides you want to serve? How will you promote yourself to them? What services do you intend to sell? How big do you want your business to be?
2) Save extra money
Skip the fancy coffee drinks and impulse buys and put away some money from your paychecks so you’ll have some in case any emergencies occur before your business becomes fully successful.
3) Take your vacation time
It may be difficult to take time off while your business is new so take advantage of your paid vacation time while you have it. If you don’t want to go on a trip, use the time to create your new business.
4) Become familiar with the wedding industry in your area
Before you strike out on your own, attend local bridal fairs and wedding industry association meetings. These events will give you a good sense of what the market is like in your area and you can create a successful business based on what you learn.
5) Plan (or keep planning) weddings during your off hours
I know it may be difficult to do this, but you don’t want to quit your job to start a business unless you have had some experience planning weddings, and the more experience, the better. And, collect testimonials and photos so you can build your portfolio.
Of course, never work on your wedding business while at your full time job and resist the urge to talk about it in your workplace, even if a coworker is getting married. You don’t want to be accused of misusing company time and property or for using your workplace to find clients.
And if you want more help to become a top wedding planner, sign in to get my ezine “Wedding Planner Tips.”
