How to Become a Wedding Coordinator Plan Your Dream Career

Do you love arranging and managing things at weddings, such as manpower, vendors, etc? Does wedding planning excite you? Do you like helping couples in your community to bring their wedding vision to reality? If you have yes as an answer to all these questions, then surely you are born to become a wedding coordinator. Trust that it is one of the most lucrative career options today.

It is, in fact, an interesting job, especially meant for those who don’t get tired of planning, arranging, and managing things at weddings or any event. Even if you have done all these things at a very small level, such as arranging your cousin’s sister’s wedding, you can think of wedding coordinator as a career option.

It’s an interesting job but complex. As a wedding coordinator, you will organize an event from the grand vision to the end. If you have a passion for event planning and bringing couples’ dreams into reality, then being a wedding coordinator is your perfect career path. The world of a wedding coordinator is glamorous. You need to be determined and dedicated if you must succeed. If you have no experience in planning an event but still want to become a wedding coordinator, this post is for you! We’ll guide you on the steps and skills required to become a successful wedding coordinator. Let’s guide you on how to transform your passion for weddings into a fulfilling profession.

Are you ready?

Let’s get started…

First, let’s take a look at the skills you need to become a successful wedding coordinator.

The Skills Needed To Become a Wedding Coordinator

Like other career choices, wedding coordinators also need to possess some skills to help function effectively in the job. Take a look at a few of the skills you need.

1. Leadership

As an upcoming wedding coordinator, you must have the qualities of a leader inside of you. You need to have a thick skin since you will be dealing with many people from different backgrounds, such as wedding vendors, florists, venue coordinators, parties, couples, and so on. You must be able to handle the people and responsibilities that come along with this role. The couples, their families, and vendors will need your attention. Also, you need to know that it is going to be a high-pressure job at times. Hence, you must be capable of working under high pressure. As a good leader, you should be able to lead, listen, and be calm even when you’re stressed.

2. Attention to Detail

Another important skill you must possess is the ability to pay attention to details. You must be highly organized while carrying out your job. All the arrangements must be according to the couple’s demands. The wedding details must be followed with precision.

If you don’t have these qualities, worry not! You don’t need to give up on your dreams. You can develop it over time! As you continue in your journey as a wedding coordinator, you’ll begin to have these skills gradually. Remember experience and continuous learning will help sharpen your skills.

3. Ability to Solve Problems

Are you always ready to solve problems that come up suddenly?

Managing things for others can be challenging at times. Know that every couple wishes to host a unique wedding. You act as their representative. You do things on their behalf to bring their dream to life. As an aspiring wedding coordinator, you must be ready to face any challenges that come during a wedding. Problems are inevitable parts of marriages. Things can go wrong at any point, but your ability to handle it can make you a good wedding coordinator. You need to be a fast thinker and a problem solver to gain the trust of your clients.

If an unexpected situation pops up and it needs an urgent solution, you must find a solution without being weighed down.

4. Empathy

One of the primary factors that can differentiate you from other wedding coordinators is “Empathy”. Striving to ensure everyone is cared for during a wedding event makes you different from others in the industry. You should be able to handle the demands of the couples and their family members. Listen and help them with a solution. You’ll be an excellent coordinator if you have empathy.

5. Strong Research Skills

You should know all you need to meet your client’s expectations. Couples count on you for their weddings. As a wedding coordinator, it becomes your duty to help make their dream wedding a reality. So, you must know where to get all the requirements for a beautiful wedding party.

6. Time Management

A person who can manage time can do wonders in life. Nothing is as good as meeting deadlines during a wedding. You must be time-conscious if you want to be a wedding coordinator. Be efficient in managing your time while working hard to give the best in a wedding.

7. Financial Management

Last but not least, you should have the ability to manage funds or finances wisely. Remember, you’ll be handling your clients’ money while planning their wedding event. You must work with the budget they have given you. You will be responsible for ensuring their wedding event goes well and in their budget. You need to have skills to manage your finances properly; don’t be extravagant!

Let’s now take a look at the steps that you can take to become a wedding coordinator and succeed in the process. Here we go…

How to Become a Wedding Coordinator

Here’s a step-by-step guide for becoming a wedding coordinator. Take a look.

1. Do your Research

Everything begins with good research. Since it’s your first time in the field, you need to do good research about your new job. Get answers to questions related to planning a wedding, such as how to get your first client, how much you can make from an event, etc. Take time to do your market research.

Some wedding coordinators specialize in handling some specific type of event, such as destination weddings, while others work with all sorts of clients, including locals. Conducting research will help you know what is required to function effectively in your new job.

2. Seek Out Learning Opportunities

You don’t need to acquire a certificate from any institution to become a wedding coordinator. However, you should learn more about the industry. There’s a saying that “desperate heart takes desperate measures.” Your desperation to become a wedding coordinator will push you to take extra steps in achieving your dreams. You can follow wedding coordinators on social media, attend seminars and trainings, and listen to wedding podcasts.

You will always remain at the top of your career if you keep seeking to learn. Consistent learning will make you relevant and renowned in the industry. Also, learning helps you gain deeper insights that you can utilize to master your role. You’ll be updated with all that’s trending. You can also get trained by an approved wedding and event coordinator for a few weeks.

3. Acquire Hands-On Experience

Gaining knowledge and experience is an important aspect you must consider when becoming a wedding coordinator. For this, you can choose to join as an intern, volunteer, or work closely with an expert wedding coordinator. The person should be an expert in the type of event you want to learn. This way, you will be able to learn faster and become a skilled coordinator who can handle any sort of wedding event.

4. Network With Professionals

Networking is an important aspect you need to consider when it comes to becoming a wedding coordinator. Don’t be isolated from other people in the industry. Your relationship with others will give you more knowledge about the job and how it works. You’ll get motivated to keep pushing to achieve your goals.

When you network with other professionals in the field, you’ll learn how to build good relationships with clients in the future. Since you’ll be working with different people, networking allows you to build your communication skills. It’s something you can’t walk away from, so start networking. You can join various online forums and attend wedding events, such as seminars, etc., to stay abreast and network with like-minded people.

5. Join Organizations

Here’s another step you can take to become a wedding coordinator. Join organizations where there are professional wedding coordinators. These are people who are ahead of you in the field. You will learn more from them and also move forward in your new career.

6. Consider Getting a Certification

You don’t need a certificate to start a career as a wedding coordinator. However, getting a certification from an association of certified wedding planners will give you an edge in the wedding space. Some clients may ask you about your certification. In such a situation, certificates from various associations can be helpful. Moreover, your experience in the field will also matter. All in all, getting some certifications for yourself is going to be a plus.

Your certification will make you more relevant in the industry. Find out more about the trade groups and associations within your reach, then get enrolled!

Wrapping it up…

If you don’t have a degree in planning events, it shouldn’t stop you from chasing your dreams. Keep your passion for helping couples achieve their dream wedding alive in you. Acquire the skills required, follow the steps listed above, and you’re on your way to greatness.

We know you might have a few questions regarding becoming a wedding coordinator. Let’s now take a look at some frequently asked questions associated with the field of wedding coordination. Here we go…

FAQs

Here are answers to some of the questions you might have. Take a look…

1. How Can You Make Your Money as a Wedding Coordinator?

You can earn money by charging your clients a flat fee or hourly rate. You can also charge the couple based on their wedding size and budget.

2. How to Get a Certification as a Wedding Coordinator?

Getting your certification depends on where you have enrolled. Some organizations offer training for an estimated time of 12 study hours. While some Event Academies provide training for a minimum of three months before giving a certificate.

3. Do You Need a Degree to Become a Wedding Coordinator?

No! Whether you want to join a company as a wedding planner or be self-employed, you don’t need a specific degree. You can achieve your goals without having a degree in event planning or hospitality. Dream big and work hard, then you’ll be a successful wedding coordinator.

4. Can You be Employed as a Wedding Coordinator?

Yes, you can be employed as a wedding coordinator. As a wedding coordinator, you can work for event planning companies, resorts, or hotels. It can be a full-time or contract-based job – it all depends on your client. However, it is crucial to know that some renowned hotels may ask for a degree in hospitality. Make sure you confirm this before applying.