19 Business Ideas For Wedding Planners [2024]
Interested in starting a business as a wedding planner in 2024?
If managed well, building a business as a wedding planner could be more lucrative than employment. So, which are the best business ideas for Wedding planners?
We put together 19 of some of the best wedding planner business ideas you can start in today.
For each business idea, we'll show you real-world examples of other wedding planner businesses to help you see what it takes.
Here's the full list:
1. Rent party & events venue ($184K/month)
As a wedding planner, you could diversify your income by starting a rent party & events venue. Given the increasing demand in the events industry, you'll find a steady stream of clients ranging from individuals planning birthdays and weddings to businesses hosting meetings, tradeshows, and conferences.
With your expertise in organizing and executing flawless weddings, you could leverage your skills to manage a versatile event space, ensuring it meets various clients' needs. Additionally, your existing network and reputation as a wedding planner could help you attract a broad clientele, making marketing your new venture easier.
By choosing a niche, such as corporate events or social celebrations, and using your event planning expertise, you could transform any unused space into a profitable business. This approach allows you to supplement your income and potentially expand into a full-time, standalone business.
How much you can make: $3,500 — $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Akshay Patel's event rental and decor business, Simply Decor, Tents, and Events, saw an average ticket price of $2,000, as their advertising budget decreased from $20k to $5k, leading to 40% of their clients coming through social media advertising, 30% from expos, and 30% online in google, yahoo, and other platforms.
2. Start a photography business ($19.1K/month)
As a wedding planner, you could consider starting a photography business to supplement your income and diversify your offerings. Your existing expertise in managing events would give you an edge in understanding the perfect moments to capture, and you could offer bundled services that include both planning and photography. This complementary skill set could attract more clients who appreciate the convenience and consistency of working with a single vendor for both planning and photography needs.
Additionally, leveraging your current client base and network could jump-start your photography business, reducing the time and effort needed to build an initial customer base. Social media platforms, where your wedding planning portfolio already shines, can double as a showcase for your photography work, amplifying your reach. With a good camera, basic editing skills, and a touch of creativity, you could transform your passion for capturing beautiful moments into a thriving business.
How much you can make: $1,200 — $100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $6,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
The Match Artist helps singles take amazing photos for their online dating profiles through a 3-hour executive shoot, coaching, and email course, pioneering a new genre of photography, with an average monthly revenue of $5,000-$6,000 and a plan to double down on paid ad campaigns in the future.
3. Start an event management company ($131K/month)
As a wedding planner, you already possess valuable skills such as managing complex logistics, coordinating with multiple vendors, and creating memorable experiences. By starting an event management company, you could leverage these skills to expand into a broader range of events, including corporate functions, social gatherings, and entertainment events. This diversification could not only supplement your current income but also provide you with a more stable revenue stream throughout the year, beyond just the traditional wedding season.
Event management is a rapidly growing industry, projected to grow by 10% in the next few years, making it a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurial minds. With your existing network and expertise, you could seamlessly transition into event management, utilizing your talent to handle everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate events. Diversifying into event management allows you to tap into a new client base, collaborate with brand sponsors, and interact with a wider range of industry professionals, thus opening up endless opportunities for professional growth and financial gain.
Starting your own event management company could not only enhance your career portfolio but could also position you as a versatile event expert in an ever-growing market. By embracing this evolving field, you have the chance to create a thriving business that complements your passion for planning unforgettable events.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 160 days (?)
A successful ticketing platform that grew from a side project into a business that issues over 5 million tickets annually, using a combination of cold calling, word of mouth, and partnerships to attract and retain customers while navigating the challenges of COVID-19.
4. Start a BBQ reality shows business ($8.69M/month)
As a wedding planner, you could branch out into the exciting world of BBQ reality shows, leveraging your project management skills and event planning expertise to create compelling content that combines the thrill of competition with the savory appeal of BBQ. Your experience in scouting vendors and managing logistics would translate seamlessly into finding charismatic contestants, securing filming locations, and overseeing the production of mouth-watering episodes.
The growing popularity of cooking shows and the universal love of BBQ present an opportunity to attract sponsorships and build a loyal viewership. By showcasing diverse BBQ styles and engaging passionate audiences, you could tap into a thriving market and possibly secure streaming partnerships, ultimately adding a lucrative stream of income to your portfolio.
How much you can make: $70,000 — $25,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Grew BBQ cleaning service to 240 US locations with multi-unit businesses making six figures and boasting 99%+ customer satisfaction rate.
5. Start a mobile photography business ($104K/month)
As a wedding planner, you could seamlessly expand your services by starting a mobile photography business. This venture aligns well with your existing expertise and clientele, giving you the opportunity to offer packaged services that include planning and photography. With the increasing demand for social media-worthy wedding photos, you could capitalize on your event coordination skills to capture and create stunning visual content that highlights the magic of each wedding you plan.
By investing in high-quality, professional cameras and photo-editing software, you could enhance your client offerings and differentiate yourself in a competitive market. Providing mobile photography services also allows you to operate with minimal overhead cost and the flexibility to work at various venues. This diversification can not only supplement your income but also position you as a one-stop solution for clients, thereby driving more business your way.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 190 days (?)
Photobooth Supply Co. offers a profitable business opportunity through their sleek and portable photo booths, with up to 97% satisfaction rate and a focus on customer experience, in a fast-growing event industry where photo booths are exploding.
6. Start a photography blog ($10.1K/month)
Starting a photography blog could be an excellent way for a wedding planner to supplement their income and make extra money by leveraging their existing skills and network. You could share the beautiful moments you capture at weddings, offer tutorials on photographing bridal parties, or provide behind-the-scenes stories that could attract both photography enthusiasts and prospective clients. This can help you establish yourself as an authority in the wedding industry, thus attracting more business opportunities.
Furthermore, you could monetize your blog through avenues such as advertising, sponsorships, and offering paid content like e-books or online courses about wedding photography techniques. Networking with other industry professionals and staying updated on photography trends can also help you build a loyal following. Over time, this following could translate into additional bookings for your wedding planning services or even a new source of revenue from partnerships and collaborations.
How much you can make: $1,200 — $27,400/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
A software engineer turned founder started a digital camera review website as a side-hustle which turned into a successful online publication with up to 1.3 million unique monthly visitors, generating around $1,000 per month, attracting visitors through guest posts, focusing on desirable quality content, and through answering popular questions on Stack Exchange, providing helpful advice for other entrepreneurs.
7. Start an athletic fundraising business
As a wedding planner, you already possess essential organizational skills and an eye for detail, which are crucial for starting an athletic fundraising business. You could leverage your event-planning expertise to manage fundraising events that support local sports organizations, such as charity runs, sponsorship drives, and online auctions.
Acting as the liaison between teams and potential sponsors, you'll create compelling campaigns to raise funds for equipment, travel expenses, and facility improvements. This not only supplements your income but also enhances your community engagement by empowering local sports teams to achieve their full potential.
With your passion for planning and a creative approach, you could make a substantial impact while diversifying your professional portfolio. It’s about fostering community spirit and supporting athletic dreams, making this side business both fulfilling and financially rewarding.
8. Start a short sleeve button down brand
As a wedding planner, you could explore the opportunity of starting a short sleeve button down brand to supplement your income. This venture allows you to leverage your understanding of aesthetics, tailoring those casual yet elegant shirts for various events, including casual wedding-related gatherings like rehearsal dinners or bridal party prep.
With your eye for detail and quality, you could source high-quality fabrics and offer designs that blend comfort with style, appealing to both wedding clients and a broader audience. Additionally, this new business could benefit from your existing network and marketing experience, giving you an edge in promotion and sales. Combining your skills in planning and fashion could open new doors and elevate your entrepreneurial journey.
How much you can make: $5,000/month
Short Steve Button Downs is a New York-based online retailer that specializes in producing high-quality short sleeve button down shirts (SSBDs) out of soft, breathable performance fabric; the company, which launched in May 2019, is currently making about $5,000 per month in revenue.
9. Start a backyard office design & building company
As a wedding planner, you already possess exceptional organizational skills and an eye for design—both of which are crucial when starting a backyard office design & building company. This business could be a perfect supplement to your existing career by allowing you to use your creativity and project management expertise in a new, yet complementary, industry.
With the rise of remote work, many professionals are seeking dedicated, distraction-free workspaces, making backyard offices increasingly popular. By starting this side business, you could tap into a growing market, utilizing your knowledge of spatial design to create functional and aesthetically pleasing work environments. Transforming unused backyard space into productive powerhouses not only allows you to diversify your income but also positions you as a versatile entrepreneur adaptable to evolving market needs.
10. Start a food item business ($758K/month)
As a wedding planner with a passion for food and an entrepreneurial spirit, starting a food item business could be a natural extension of your skillset. You already understand the importance of quality, presentation, and timing, which are critical in the food industry. Imagine creating, packaging, and selling handcrafted specialties like gourmet sauces or organic snacks that could be used as wedding favors or incorporated into wedding menus.
You could leverage your existing network of clients and vendors to test and market your products, offering them a unique and personalized touch for their special day. Marketing your new food items through social media and local events where you already have a presence can help you build a strong customer base quickly. With dedication and strategic planning, your food creations could add an exciting revenue stream to your wedding planning business and become a favorite among couples and their guests.
How much you can make: $15,000 — $1,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Food Fleet grew over 160% in just one year and managed over 20 million in sales for its clients, securing multiple contracts with the likes of Sodexo, Levy Restaurants and more, due to its understanding of catering client needs and its advanced turnkey and design services.
11. Start a day trade bitcoin account
As a wedding planner, you already excel at multi-tasking and managing high-stress situations, skills that can be valuable in the fast-paced world of day trading Bitcoin. By starting a day trade Bitcoin account, you could leverage the flexibility of your current schedule, allowing you to trade during off-peak hours or in between client meetings and events.
Trading Bitcoin offers the potential for significant profits, which can supplement your income or even become a primary source of revenue over time. Given the volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, disciplined trading strategies and vigilant monitoring are crucial, much like the meticulous planning required for successful weddings. Transitioning into day trading could diversify your financial portfolio while still allowing you to pursue your passion for creating memorable wedding experiences.
12. Start a computer accessory business
As a wedding planner, you could supplement your income by starting a computer accessory business. This new venture would take advantage of your existing skills in logistics, negotiation, and client relations. You already have the organizational expertise needed to research popular accessories like mice, keyboards, and speakers, find reliable suppliers, and manage inventory efficiently.
Your knowledge of marketing could be leveraged to promote your new business both online and offline, just as you do with your wedding planning services. Providing quality products at competitive prices and top-notch customer service could help you build a strong reputation in the market. By keeping an eye on new trends and technologies, you could ensure your offerings remain relevant and attractive to consumers, thereby securing a steady stream of additional income.
How much you can make: $5,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
TechKeys, an online retail store dedicated to mechanical keyboard parts and accessories, grew from a hobby to a niche business earning $5,000 a month in revenue by leveraging the buying power of the group buy to manufacture additional inventory and offering them to buyers at a standard retail markup.
13. Start a horse insurance agency
As a wedding planner, you could tap into the lucrative niche of providing horse insurance, especially if you already work with equestrian-themed weddings or events. Given your expertise in event management and vendor coordination, transitioning into horse insurance could be a natural extension, allowing you to leverage your existing network and organizational skills.
Moreover, starting a horse insurance agency could offer you a stable, supplementary income. With clients seeking comprehensive coverage for high-value horses and equine events, you could position yourself as a trusted advisor, enhancing your professional portfolio and diversifying your revenue streams.
14. Start a woodworking supplies business
As a wedding planner, you could leverage your keen eye for detail and creativity by starting a woodworking supplies business. This venture allows you to tap into the woodworking market by selling essential tools, quality lumber, and finishing materials. Your experience in planning beautiful, memorable events could help you curate an appealing product line and create compelling marketing strategies that resonate with woodworkers and hobbyists.
Imagine being a trusted resource for high-quality woodworking products, just as you are for creating unforgettable weddings. You could establish an online store or even a physical shop that complements your existing wedding planning business. By offering superior products and excellent customer service, you could attract a loyal customer base, supplement your income, and potentially turn your hobby into a thriving side business.
How much you can make: $1,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $7,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
Zack Hall started SketchUp For Woodworkers, an online course for teaching woodworkers how to use 3D design software, after acquiring an old website and investing $5,000, with the business now earning around $1k per month and attracting almost one sale per day through organic SEO traffic.
15. Start a remote grading service business
As a wedding planner, starting a remote grading service business could be an excellent way to diversify your income while leveraging your organizational skills and attention to detail. You could offer services to educational institutions, training centers, or even online course providers that require extra support in grading assignments and tests. This would allow you to work remotely, providing flexibility during off-peak wedding seasons or when you need a break from event planning.
Additionally, your experience in meticulous planning and managing timelines could easily translate to meeting grading deadlines and maintaining high standards. By offering a remote grading service, you would also be able to reach a wider range of clients and build a steady stream of income, complementing your primary wedding planning business.
16. Start a removable wallpaper and prints
As a wedding planner, you could tap into your creative talents and eye for design by starting a removable wallpaper and prints business. This niche could cater to couples looking to personalize their wedding venue or their homes post-wedding. Offering unique designs that reflect the couples' tastes or the theme of their wedding could set your business apart and provide an additional revenue stream.
You could also use your existing network to market this service, pitching it as an easy way to enhance wedding venues or even creating custom backdrops for photo booths. The flexibility and temporary nature of removable wallpaper make this product particularly appealing, providing a low-commitment way for clients to make a big impact. Since you’re already familiar with event decor, expanding into this area could seamlessly integrate with your current services while offering a fresh and trendy option for your clients.
17. Become a contractor website creator
Venturing into a contractor website creator business could be an ideal side hustle for you as a wedding planner. Given your meticulous attention to detail and creative mindset, you could easily translate these skills into designing intuitive and aesthetically pleasing websites for contractors such as plumbers, electricians, and painters. This supplementary venture allows you to leverage your planning off-season, providing much-needed flexibility and additional income.
Moreover, understanding the importance of an online presence from your own wedding planning business, you already know how critical a functional and attractive website is for establishing credibility and trustworthiness. With the website builder market valued at $1.5 billion in 2019 and continuing to grow, the demand for professional, well-maintained contractor websites is on the rise. By offering these services, you not only diversify your income streams but also build stronger ties within your business community.
How much does it cost to start: $300 (?)
How long does it take to build: 15 days (?)
18. Start an insecticide producer
As a wedding planner, you could start an insecticide production business as a side venture to supplement your current income or even grow it into a standalone business. Weddings often take place outdoors, and one of the most common concerns for clients is dealing with pests like mosquitoes, flies, and other insects. Offering a high-quality, eco-friendly insecticide not only positions you as a more comprehensive wedding planner but also provides an additional revenue stream.
Furthermore, by producing your own insecticides, you could ensure that they meet specific safety standards suitable for events, thereby giving you a competitive edge. You could package these insecticides as part of premium wedding packages, or sell them directly to other event planners and venues. This dual approach allows you to diversify your income while leveraging your existing network and expertise in event management.
19. Start a naturals2go vending franchise business
As a wedding planner, you could supplement your income and diversify your revenue streams by starting a Naturals2Go vending franchise business. This franchise offers healthy snack and beverage options, which align well with the wellness trends that many of your clients might appreciate. By placing these vending machines in venues you frequently work with, such as wedding venues, hotels, and conference centers, you could generate a steady income with minimal additional effort.
Moreover, the vending business requires relatively low maintenance, allowing you to focus on your primary responsibilities while still benefiting from this side venture. This approach not only adds value to the venues but also opens up networking opportunities and strengthens your business relationships within the industry.
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
