Event management requires superior organizational and planning skills. If you possess those skills, then you should consider it as a home business idea. You also have to excel at managing people, because your work will involve working with staff, vendors, managers at venues and others. Being a mom is great preparation for the amount of multi-tasking you'll have to do as you work on events. Here's what you need to know about this business idea:

Education and Training Requirements

Graduating from college in events management or a related major is a plus, but it's not required. You can earn a certificate from a trade organization or college, which is what many of your clients would be interested in. Some certificate programs offer distinguished designations, such as a Certified Special Events Professional, that you can earn from an organization like Meeting Professionals International. You'll be more competitive if you can earn more advanced certifications, but that also depends on your target market.

Target Market

Different individuals and groups are in need of event management. They all need help with special events, and you can pitch your services to a target market that fits your expertise and personality. Here are some examples of target markets:

• Large corporations
• Educational institutions
• Religious organizations
• Married couples
• Families
• Small businesses
• Political candidates
• Non-profit organizations

Special events are not just celebrations or commemorations. They can also include educational events, such as conferences. Rather than spread yourself thin by being everything to everyone, figure out what you're good at and what you're most passionate about. You'll have a better opportunity to earn more by becoming an expert in planning specific events.

Salary for an Event Manager

An event management business can be one of the more profitable opportunities for work-at-home moms. The salary range is between $33,000 and $53,000. The higher end is often the result of working with large corporations and institutions with a good sized budget for event planning. You may earn less working with individuals and families, but you'll also have more creative options and flexibility working with those groups. The ways that you'll get paid include an hourly rate, flat fee or on commission.

Necessary Contacts

Event management is not a good choice if you're an introvert. Your regular routine will involve making contacts so that others can assist you when you have to plan events. For example, your clients will expect you to hire the caterers, photographers and sewers for a wedding. You'll only know the vendors and suppliers by contacting them and establishing relationships. If they let the clients down, your reputation will be on the line. Learn how to network if you lack those skills, and make it a point to start establishing the contacts that you'll need to serve your target market, sooner rather than later.

Developing contacts and forming relationships is key to event management. It will take time to do both, but once it's done, you'll establish your business and you can make a living planning events.

__________________________
Daphne Mallory, Esq. is the co-owner of Mallory Writing Services and has written more than 100 articles helping home based business owners and entrepreneurs start and market their business. You can learn more about her here.