I want to be an event coordinator (planner) but do not know how to get into the business. Where do I start?
Asked by Julie
I am interested in Art and architecture and am trying to tie that into a career of planning events for nonprofits, whatever. Should I major in PR? I have an AA in general studies but I don't know what to do next. Any good sites for internships? What schools offer event planning? Looking for answerers who have job related experience but not neccessary.

Best Answer:
If you live in a medium-size or large city, chances are there are firms in your area that specialize in event planning. Look for a job in one. Also look for jobs in sales/catering department of large hotels with convention or meeting facilities, or in a local convention/visitors bureau, or in a large corporation with an in-house special events office. If you have an AA degree you probably don't need more schooling, though some employers may prefer a bachelor's degree. If you decide to continue your education, a business-related field would probably be most relevant (I do not know of any specialized programs in event planning, though they may exist). In any case, good organizational, interpersonal, and communications skills would be extremely helpful.

you should try to get a job working FOR an event planner and then see if it is really up your alley. a related field would be catering and/or hospitality. i would try to get on-the-job experience rather than anymore college because when a person goes to hire an event planner they will probably not be looking for any type of college degree--much more interested in experience and references from past parties that you have done--take lots of pictures and create a portfolio. good luck! event planning can be a very fun and lucrative business.
Answered by missbeckythacher

If you're trying to figure out what to major in, try hotel management. It will give you everything you need to know about event management, and more, and you'll leave college ready to jump right into your new career. A PR major won't really give you the background or training you need for event coordination. I agree that, in the mean time, you might try to get a job with an event coordination company. You could also try working with caterers, venues (you may want to find work specifically at an art gallery or similar venue, considering your interests), or some similar event-related company.
Answered by Vicster

Julie, Entrepreneur Magazine has a number of proffessional guides for businesses. (They are available at www.smallbizbooks.com, They run from $40 to $70 and are an amazing bargain.) An Event Planner course is available. You'll also find related and supplementary materials. Baloon bouquets, catering, public relations, making a business plan, etc. These programs are written by seasoned professionals. They contain many resources for you to contact, start up plans, and dozens of organizations that use various types special events. As well as other opportunities to look for. You may find providing services to established event planners a way to get to know the biz. I know it sounds counter intuitive, but as a beginning copy writer, I found the nonprofits field cut throat in nature. It's a crowded field, and many 'cause' enterprises want it all for nothing. They are frequently run by unprofessional do gooders and volunteer kooks. But that was just my experience. But get the event planner course I mentioned. You will really need your 'creative' act together. But your in for a life of fun festivity and money once you get going! bill
Answered by billblue0072003