For someone who enjoys planning parties, vacations, or casual get togethers, an excellent career option would be to become an event planner. Event planners either work independently, for an organization, or through an event planning company to put together events of all sizes. Due to the current economic conditions, landing a job as an event planner can be very competitive. To establish a career in event planning, there are several steps a person should take.

The first step in establishing a career in event planning is to get a college education. While an education is not always required for this career path, it is something that would help set you apart from other candidates. If the school you wish to attend does not have an event planning degree, you should look to majoring in either marketing, advertising, or a sales based degree. While you are in school you should constantly look for part time jobs and internships which would provide you with some basic experience.

After graduating from school, the next step in getting a career in event planning would be to get a job in the event planning industry. If you haven’t already had an internship or found a focus in which you would like to take your career, it would be wise to attempt to get a job working for an event planning firm. These firms plan events for a wide range of clients. This should give you exposure to many different people in the industry and should help you find a focus for your career.

After you have started working, it would be wise to network with as many people in the field as possible. There are various organizations in the field which allow people in event planning to network. One of the most popular organizations in the field is the Event Planner’s Association. This association holds regular events all over the country. There may also be other regional based organizations in which you could join.

Another good idea for those looking for a job in event planning would be to become certified. The Certified Meeting Professional certification will require you to take and pass a test. This test will focus on all areas of event planning including planning, management, and logistics.