Holy moly! The crazy, crazy stories I’ve heard! And once you’ve been around the block a time or two, you’ll hear them too. Maybe you heard about the planner who burned down a venue? Or the one where a planner hired a catering company and all the guests got sick?
Wedding Planner Business
Or what about the one where sparklers lit a bride’s dress on fire? You can search for that one on YouTube. You just never know what is going to happen at any given wedding. And for this very reason, you can’t afford not to be prepared and protected. Download our Free guide for more information the 7 most important steps you need to open a wedding planner business.
Insurance
Don’t play fast and loose with your responsibilities as a professional. Doing so can not only hurt you, but also your client. For example, if you don’t have insurance to cover an unforeseen accident, who do you think they will go after next? Your client, maybe? Get insurance! Most venues you work with will require general limited liability insurance anyway. It is also a great selling point if you have a bride looking for a cheaper planner. Check out Hiscox for insurance. I have used them in the past, and they made things very easy (and who doesn’t like easy?).
Become an LLC
If you are currently registered as a sole proprietor but are now booking more clients and making more money, consider becoming an LLC. An LLC can give you protection that a sole proprietorship can’t. As an LLC, only your business assets can be levied against. So, in layman’s terms, your house or personal possessions can’t be touched if you get sued. Hiring a lawyer can be expensive and isn’t necessary for setting up an LLC. Try Incfile.com for fast and easy service that will also save you a pretty penny.
Contracts
This should be a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many wedding planners don’t have a good contract. A contract will protect you in the event that you have to go to court. It also sets boundaries between you and your clients. I cannot express to you just how many times clients have asked me to do things that were outside of the scope of my contract. It’s always reassuring to point them to the contract we both signed and explain to them why I can’t do what they’re asking. If you don’t already have a contract, check out The Engaged Legal Collective. They provide plenty of good information about why you should have a strong contract.
… and a detailed diary!
LOL, so true!
These are the 3 most important must haves – for sure! Thanks 🙂
So glad you agree Chelsea!