It's spring and many people are working to plan weddings right now. And I hear from many people who have an interest in becoming a wedding planner or starting their own wedding planning business. While I advocate that people should get as much education and build as many skills as possible, some of the same people are bombarded by advertisements with a promise into this profession (by e-books, e-courses and local seminars that are frequently promoted in different cities and communities).
My advice to anyone who is considering hiring a wedding planner is to ask themselves the following question: If you plan on spending $25K, $50K or $100K or more, what kind of professional preparation would you expect of the person who is helping you invest those dollars in this major event? Unfortunately, my position probably isn't popular with anyone who just decides one day that they think it's time to start a wedding planning business out of the blue. It frustrates me, sometimes, to know that some businesses are marketing a shortcut to this type of dream job.
It's unfortunate that some marketers go unregulated (as there really aren't any shortcuts that will help you get started and a job in less than 30 days...) So my question to readers and those in the field is this: what advice would you give to someone who wants to become a wedding planner?
Please feel free to post your responses on the general discussion board, or start a discussion of your own. Thanks!