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Tiffany Denny, CMP

Get the career you want by doing what you love. In this course, you will learn the foundations of event planning. These concepts can be applied to social events, corporate events, weddings, fundraisers, etc... The concept of this course is to walk away with tangible resources and the confidence you need to get a job in the industry or start your own event planning business. This course is unique and is taught by a CMP (Certified Meeting Professional).

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Creating a vision
  • Event marketing
  • Event production
  • Event design
  • How to set goals and objectives
  • Event project management
  • Risk management
  • Financial management and budgeting
  • Site and venue management
  • Building a portfolio

Syllabus

Meet your Instructor and overview of the course
Instructor Introduction Video

Introduction to the course

Have knowledge of what a vision is and how to create a vision for an event.
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The student will learn the components of creating a vision for an event.

In this module you will learn how to set goals and objectives using the SMART method

After completing this module the student will be able to define their goals and objectives for their event clearly using the SMART Goal system.

Students will be able to define project scope, create a project roadmap, create a RFP and know the basics of an event contract.

After completing this module the student will be able to define project scope, create a project roadmap, have knowledge of contracts, and know how to construct and submit an RFP.

Module #4- Risk Management

This module teaches the basics of risk management. The student should come away knowing what risks in event planning are, and how to manage them. There is a link to a SWOT analysis included in the module. Students will also have an event & safety plan checklist to download.

Module #5- Financial Management and Budget

Students will learn the basics of budgeting and accounting in events. They will be reviewing basic accounting procedures and learning about setting up cash handling protocols.

Module #6- Site and Venue Management

The student will know the criteria on selecting a site, different types of venues, how to design a site layout, and how to do a basic site inspection.

Students will learn how to create a marketing plan, have knowledge of marketing distribution channels, know the importance of branding and implementation of the marketing plan.

Students will know how to develop a marketing plan and how to implement it. They will also discover marketing channels of distribution, and the importance of branding and message.

Students will gain a basic knowledge of event design, content delivery form, selection of speakers, what should be included in a speaker contract, and how to license music for an event.

Students will learn the design process, how to engage speakers, the basic components of a speaker contract and the basics of a hybrid event.

Students will learn the components of a Events Specification Guide used to produce events.

Students will learn the main components of an Events Specification Guide (ESG) and will be able to scale a version that will best fit their needs.

Students will gain the knowledge on how to build a portfolio even before getting their first client

Students will walk away knowing how to build their portfolio event even if they have never planned an event.

This quiz covers all 10 of the modules covered.

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Learn how to become an Event Planner with these activities:
Review 'The Event Planner's Handbook'
Familiarize yourself with industry-standard practices and gain a broader understanding of the event planning landscape.
View Weddings on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Event Planner's Handbook'.
  • Read the chapters relevant to the course modules.
  • Take notes on key concepts and best practices.
Review Basic Accounting Principles
Strengthen your understanding of financial management and budgeting, which are crucial for successful event planning.
Browse courses on Accounting
Show steps
  • Review basic accounting principles online.
  • Practice creating a simple budget.
Plan a Mock Event
Apply the concepts learned in the course by planning a hypothetical event from start to finish.
Show steps
  • Choose a type of event (wedding, corporate, etc.).
  • Define the event's vision, goals, and objectives.
  • Create a budget and timeline.
  • Develop a marketing plan.
  • Design the event layout and select vendors.
Four other activities
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Show all seven activities
Develop an Event Safety Plan Checklist
Solidify your understanding of risk management by creating a comprehensive safety plan checklist for events.
Show steps
  • Research common event safety hazards.
  • Create a checklist of safety measures.
  • Organize the checklist by event phase.
Build a Portfolio Website
Showcase your skills and experience by creating a professional portfolio website.
Show steps
  • Choose a website platform (e.g., Wix, Squarespace).
  • Select a template and customize it.
  • Add information about your skills and experience.
  • Include examples of your work (mock events, designs, etc.).
Attend an Event Planning Conference
Expand your network and learn from industry professionals by attending an event planning conference.
Show steps
  • Research event planning conferences in your area.
  • Register for a conference and plan your attendance.
  • Attend sessions and network with other attendees.
  • Follow up with contacts after the conference.
Review 'Event Planning: The Ultimate Guide'
Gain a broader understanding of the event planning industry and explore different event types.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Event Planning: The Ultimate Guide'.
  • Read the chapters relevant to your interests.
  • Identify areas for further research.

Career center

Learners who complete Learn how to become an Event Planner will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Learn how to become an Event Planner.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the event planning process, covering everything from initial concept to post-event evaluation. It's a valuable resource for understanding industry best practices and developing essential skills. The book is particularly helpful for grasping the practical aspects of event execution and can serve as a useful reference throughout the course.
Provides a broad overview of the event planning industry, covering various event types and management techniques. It's a good resource for understanding the different facets of event planning and gaining a holistic perspective. While not as detailed as some specialized texts, it offers a solid foundation for further learning and exploration.

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