Best Side Hustles for Event Planning
Event planning is a versatile and rewarding side hustle, especially in Canada, where there’s a thriving market for weddings, corporate events, and parties.
Whether you’re passionate about organizing or just looking to earn extra income, here are some of the best side hustles for event planning.
Wedding Planning
Wedding planners organize everything from the ceremony to the reception. This includes booking vendors, choosing venues, and handling timelines. It’s one of the most in-demand event planning services in Canada, especially in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
Income Potential:
Wedding planners typically charge a flat fee, which can range from $1,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the event. On average, wedding planners can make $1,500 to $5,000 per event.
Tools and Resources:
- The Knot – A leading wedding planning website with tools and vendor directories.
- WeddingWire – A comprehensive resource for wedding vendors and planning tools.
- Trello – A free project management tool to keep track of tasks and timelines.
How to Get Started:
- Create a portfolio with photos of previous events or mock event plans.
- Join wedding planning groups on Facebook and connect with couples.
Corporate Event Planning
Corporate event planners organize meetings, conferences, and company celebrations. This is a great side hustle for people who have a background in business or enjoy creating professional environments.
Income Potential:
Corporate event planners can earn anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000 per event, depending on the size and type of corporate event. For larger conferences, planners can make upwards of $20,000 per event.
Tools and Resources:
- Eventbrite – A platform for organizing and selling tickets to events.
- Cvent – A software for managing corporate events.
- Canva – An easy-to-use design tool for creating event materials like invitations and brochures.
How to Get Started:
- Research corporate event planning trends to stay ahead in the industry.
- Join LinkedIn groups related to event planning and connect with business owners.
- Take a course in event planning from George Brown College or Event Planning Certification Canada.
Party Planning
Party planners organize celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, and holiday events. This side hustle allows you to tap into the community and create memorable events for individuals.
Income Potential:
Party planners can charge between $500 and $3,000 per event. The income largely depends on the event's complexity and the number of services offered (e.g., decorations, entertainment).
Tools and Resources:
- Party City – A supplier for party decorations, gifts, and supplies.
- Pinterest – For inspiration and DIY ideas for themed parties.
- Evite – A digital invitation tool that helps with managing guest lists.
How to Get Started:
- Advertise your services on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
- Build a website to showcase your party themes and event galleries.
- Network with local vendors for potential collaborations or partnerships.
Event Coordination for Nonprofits
Nonprofit event coordinators plan fundraising galas, auctions, and community events for charitable organizations. This role is rewarding and helps create events that raise awareness and funds for good causes.
Income Potential:
Nonprofit event coordinators typically earn between $1,000 and $5,000 per event. While nonprofit budgets are often smaller, this can still be a profitable side hustle, especially when working with multiple organizations.
Tools and Resources:
- Volunteer Canada – Find opportunities to work with nonprofits or volunteer at events to gain experience.
- Eventbrite – Use it to promote and manage event registrations.
- Canva – Create flyers, invitations, and digital materials for fundraising events.
How to Get Started:
- Reach out to local charities and nonprofits to offer your services.
- Volunteer at nonprofit events to build relationships and gain experience.
- Join platforms like Charity Village to connect with nonprofits in need of event planners.
Virtual Event Planning
Virtual event planners organize online events, such as webinars, virtual conferences, and virtual trade shows. As the world increasingly moves online, virtual event planning is in high demand.
Income Potential:
Virtual event planners charge an average of $500 to $5,000 per event, depending on its size and complexity. Virtual conferences can bring in more, especially if they involve high-profile speakers or corporate clients.
Tools and Resources:
- Zoom – A leading platform for hosting virtual events.
- Hopin – A platform for organizing large virtual conferences and trade shows.
- Eventbrite – Helps with online event registration and promotions.
How to Get Started:
- Get familiar with virtual event platforms like Zoom, Hopin, and Google Meet.
- Offer virtual event services on Fiverr or Upwork.
- Market your services on social media and join groups dedicated to virtual events on LinkedIn.
Conclusion
Event planning offers a wide range of side hustle opportunities in Canada, from weddings and corporate events to virtual events and nonprofit work. With the right tools and resources, you can easily start building your own event planning business. Whether you want to earn extra income or build a full-time career, this side hustle has great potential for growth.
Are you ready to start planning your first event? Let us know your favorite type of event to plan, and get started today!