Know-How Exchange : Strategy

Think of the things you can do really, really well. If you don't know, ask your best friends (and they can answer anonymously ;-) That way you'll get to see what others see of you - because you won't ever see it in the mirror.

Your second task is to imagine the girl who needs what you do so specially. That's the one thing that'll make her think "my dreams have come true!" and they'll come and have a chat.

Putting those two things together should be a pretty good start. Because the beginning of being a good planner is having someone to plan it all for. Doing it for those who really appreciate those little extras - and believe me, they need not be that big - will bring you serious dividends long term.

Have fun and make some girl's dreams come true! it's their one big chance after all.

Find out what your prospective clients really need, can't get, can afford, and will pay for - and provide it!

Firstly, reiterating what Moriarty said: You need to be absolutely passionate about making it the best experience for the client. This is a very special day for a very special person, and you need to communicate that you "get" the importance of the event.

Secondly: systems, systems, systems. You absolutely cannot afford to let even the smallest things slip through the cracks, and you cannot possibly keep track of everything in your head. So you will need a robust, portable and easy-to-use project management system. I can recommend Nozbe (https://www.nozbe.com/) and the GTD system (https://www.davidco.com/ or https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Things-Done-Stress-Free-Productivity/dp/0142...).

Your network of business contacts will be very valuable. You need to have a list of photographers, videographers, dj's, cake-makers, shoe-makers, dress-makers, rental companies, jewelers, graphic designers, printers, etc. etc. that you have very good relations with and will go that little bit further for you. You will also need to have backup contacts and backup-backup contacts, for that unforeseen disaster. I've had a little bit of experience as a "roadie" in the past and believe me, no matter how organised you are, at some point something will go wrong in a pretty major way. How you deal with it is what will set you apart.

And of course, you will need to keep up-to-date with trends, fads and have some pretty funky fashion and decorating ideas yourself. All of which is outside my sphere of knowledge, so I will let someone else help you with that... :)