Are you on the hunt for the best event planning books to catapult your soirees from meh to marvelous? Look no further, aspiring maestros of memorable moments! We’ve scoured libraries and leaped through literary loops to compile a list of the top 8 must-reads that are guaranteed to transform you into the ultimate event planning virtuoso.
Embarking on the journey of event planning is akin to setting sail on the high seas of human gatherings; one must be prepared for smooth sailing and the occasional rogue wave. In the vast ocean of event planning literature, it’s easy to get swamped by the sheer volume of guides, each claiming to be the beacon of knowledge you need. But fear not! We’ve done the heavy lifting (and reading) to ensure that you’re equipped with nothing but the crème de la crème of event planning wisdom.
From the whispers of seasoned professionals to the battle cries of the event planning gladiators, these books are brimming with secrets that can turn even the most chaotic of shindigs into a symphony of organized jubilation. Whether you’re orchestrating an intimate gathering or a festival for the masses, the pearls of wisdom nestled within these pages will have you dodging disasters and basking in the glow of event success.
So, tighten your bow tie, straighten your clipboard, and let’s dive into the literary buffet that awaits. Prepare to feast on a smorgasbord of strategies, tips, and insider know-how that will leave your guests wondering, “How on Earth did they pull that off?”
When it comes to event planning books, there are a few critical things to consider. Firstly, the book should provide practical advice and guidance that is applicable to a variety of events. It should also cover different aspects of event planning, such as budgeting, venue selection, vendor management, and more. Additionally, the book should be written by an experienced event planner or industry professional to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
With this treasure trove of best event planning books at your fingertips, you’re all set to write your own legend in the grand book of event planning triumphs. Let’s turn the page and begin crafting events that are not just occasions but cherished memories etched in the annals of party lore.
Best Event Planning Books
We understand that planning events can be a daunting task, whether it’s a small gathering or a large-scale event. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best event planning books to help guide you through the process. Our team has researched and tested various books to ensure that we’re recommending only the most informative and helpful resources. Whether you’re a seasoned event planner or just starting out, these books are sure to provide valuable insights and tips to help you plan a successful event.
Overview
You Should Become an EVENT PLANNER
We highly recommend purchasing “You Should Become an EVENT PLANNER” if you’re looking to start a home-based event planning business. This book is perfect for beginners who want to learn the ropes of event planning and start their own business.
Pros
- The book provides a step-by-step guide on how to start an event planning business from scratch.
- The author shares her personal experience and provides practical tips and advice.
- The book is well-organized and easy to read.
Cons
- The book does not come with worksheets or forms to help with event planning.
- The book could benefit from more pictures and examples.
- The book is not suitable for experienced event planners.
If you’re looking to start your own event planning business, “You Should Become an EVENT PLANNER” is a great resource to have. The book provides a comprehensive guide on how to start a home-based event planning business, from finding your niche to marketing your services. The author, Rebecca Nowak, shares her personal experience and provides practical tips and advice that will help you succeed in the industry.
One of the best things about this book is its step-by-step approach. The author breaks down the process of starting an event planning business into manageable steps, making it easy for beginners to follow along. The book covers everything from setting up your business to managing your finances, and even includes tips on how to deal with difficult clients.
Another great thing about this book is the author’s personal experience. Rebecca Nowak has been in the event planning industry for over 10 years, and she shares her knowledge and expertise throughout the book. This makes the book more relatable and engaging, as the author speaks from her own experience and shares her own struggles and successes.
Overall, we highly recommend “You Should Become an EVENT PLANNER” to anyone who is looking to start a home-based event planning business. The book is well-organized, easy to read, and provides practical tips and advice that will help you succeed in the industry.
Event Planning: The Ultimate Guide To Successful Meetings, Corporate Events, Fundraising Galas, Conferences, Conventions, Incentives and Other Special Events
If you are looking for a comprehensive guide to event planning, then this book is a must-have in your collection. It covers everything from corporate events to private parties, with practical examples and templates to help you plan successful events.
Pros
- Provides practical examples and templates for event planning.
- Covers A-Z in the event industry with relevant references.
- Excellent resource for new or experienced event planners.
Cons
- Some readers found it hard to read and absorb the information.
- The book may seem like an advertising pitch at times.
- The latest edition may not be necessary, as older editions provide the same information.
We highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to improve their event planning skills. The book is well-organized and provides practical examples and templates that you can use in your planning. It covers all aspects of event planning and is an excellent resource for new or experienced event planners.
The book is divided into several sections, each covering a different aspect of event planning. The author provides practical examples and templates that you can use in your planning, making it easier for you to plan successful events. The book also includes case studies that demonstrate how events are organized and executed.
One of the best things about this book is that it covers A-Z in the event industry with relevant references. The author provides practical advice on how to plan successful events, including how to create a budget, how to select vendors, and how to market your event.
While some readers may find the book hard to read and absorb the information, we believe that the book is well-organized and easy to follow. However, some readers may find that the book seems like an advertising pitch at times.
Overall, we believe that this book is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to improve their event planning skills. It is well-written, well-organized, and provides practical examples and templates that you can use in your planning. We highly recommend it!
Start Your Own Event Planning Business: Your Step-By-Step Guide to Success (StartUp Series)
If you are looking for a comprehensive guide to start your own event planning business, then Start Your Own Event Planning Business is the perfect book for you.
Pros
- The book provides a step-by-step guide to starting an event planning business, making it an excellent resource for beginners.
- The author provides valuable insights and tips on how to market your event planning business and attract clients.
- The book is written in a simple and easy-to-understand language, making it accessible to everyone.
Cons
- The book lacks in-depth information on some aspects of event planning, such as event design and decor.
- Some of the information in the book may be outdated, as it was published in 2015.
- The book is primarily focused on the US market, which may not be relevant to readers from other countries.
In this book, the author covers all the essential aspects of starting an event planning business, from creating a business plan to managing finances and building a brand. The book also includes real-life examples and case studies, making it easier for readers to understand how to apply the concepts in real-world situations.
The author emphasizes the importance of networking and building relationships with vendors and clients to grow your business. The book also provides valuable insights on how to price your services, manage contracts, and handle unexpected situations.
Overall, Start Your Own Event Planning Business is a valuable resource for anyone looking to start an event planning business. The book provides a comprehensive guide to the basics of event planning and offers valuable tips and insights to help you succeed in the industry.
The Art of Event Planning: Pro Tips from an Industry Insider
If you’re looking for an insightful guide to event planning, “The Art of Event Planning” by Gianna Gaudini is a great choice.
Pros
- Provides a behind-the-scenes look at the event planning industry.
- Offers practical tips and advice from a seasoned industry professional.
- Easy to read and understand.
Cons
- Some readers may find the book too focused on high-end events.
- The writing style may not be suitable for all readers.
- The book is relatively short at only 204 pages.
In “The Art of Event Planning,” Gianna Gaudini shares her experience and expertise in the industry, providing readers with valuable insights into the world of event planning. She covers everything from the initial planning stages to the execution of the event, offering practical tips and advice along the way.
One of the biggest advantages of this book is that it provides a behind-the-scenes look at the event planning industry. Gaudini shares her experiences working with high-end clients, giving readers a glimpse into the world of luxury events. This can be particularly helpful for those who are interested in working in this niche.
Another advantage of “The Art of Event Planning” is that it offers practical tips and advice from a seasoned industry professional. Gaudini shares her strategies for managing vendors, dealing with unexpected challenges, and creating memorable events. This can be particularly helpful for those who are new to the industry or who are looking to improve their skills.
Overall, “The Art of Event Planning” is a well-written and informative guide to event planning. While some readers may find the content too focused on high-end events, the practical tips and advice offered by Gaudini make this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in event planning.
Event Planning and Management: Principles, Planning and Practice
If you’re looking for a comprehensive book on event planning and management, then Event Planning and Management: Principles, Planning and Practice is a great choice.
Pros
- Provides a detailed guide to event planning and management
- Covers the latest trends and challenges in the industry, including the impact of COVID-19
- Includes real-life case studies and practical examples to help you apply the concepts to your own events
Cons
- Some readers may find the book too technical or academic in style
- The focus is on corporate and professional events rather than social or personal events
- The book is relatively new, so there are limited reviews available at this time
The book is written by a team of experienced event planners and educators, and covers everything from the principles of event planning to the practical details of budgeting, marketing, and logistics. The third edition, published in December 2022, includes updated information on the latest trends and challenges in the industry, including the impact of COVID-19 on events.
One of the strengths of this book is its focus on real-life case studies and practical examples. The authors draw on their own experiences and those of other event professionals to illustrate the concepts and techniques they discuss. This makes the book more engaging and relevant than some other event planning guides that can be dry or theoretical.
The book is also well-organized and easy to navigate. Each chapter begins with a clear overview of the topics covered, and includes helpful summaries and review questions to reinforce the key points. The authors also provide a variety of tools and templates, such as event planning checklists and budget spreadsheets, to help readers apply the concepts to their own events.
Overall, Event Planning and Management: Principles, Planning and Practice is a valuable resource for anyone involved in planning and managing events, from novice to experienced professionals. While the book may be too technical or academic for some readers, those who are looking for a comprehensive guide to the industry will find it to be a worthwhile investment.
Event Management For Dummies
If you are looking for an easy-to-read guide to event planning, then you should consider purchasing Event Management For Dummies.
Pros
- The book provides a comprehensive overview of event planning, covering everything from budgeting to marketing.
- The author writes in a clear and engaging style that makes the book easy to read and understand.
- The book includes practical tips and advice based on the author’s real-world experience in event planning.
Cons
- Some readers may find the book to be too basic, as it is geared towards beginners.
- The book focuses primarily on corporate events, so it may not be as useful for those planning social events.
- The book was published in 2013, so some of the information may be outdated.
In the first few chapters, the book covers the basics of event planning, including budgeting, venue selection, and vendor management. The author provides practical tips and advice on how to stay organized and manage your time effectively.
The book also covers more advanced topics such as event marketing, sponsorship, and risk management. The author provides real-world examples and case studies to help illustrate these concepts.
One of the strengths of this book is the author’s writing style. She writes in a clear and engaging manner that makes the book easy to read and understand. The book is also well-organized, with each chapter covering a specific topic in-depth.
However, some readers may find the book to be too basic, as it is geared towards beginners. Additionally, the book focuses primarily on corporate events, so it may not be as useful for those planning social events. Finally, the book was published in 2013, so some of the information may be outdated.
Overall, if you are new to event planning and looking for a comprehensive guide to get started, then Event Management For Dummies is definitely worth considering.
The Non-Obvious Guide to Event Planning 2nd Edition
If you’re looking for a book that will help you plan an event that will leave a lasting impression, then The Non-Obvious Guide to Event Planning 2nd Edition is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The book is written in a conversational tone that makes it easy to read and understand.
- It’s packed with practical tips and techniques that will help you plan an event that is both engaging and impactful.
- The online resources provided in the book offer more in-depth information and are incredibly useful.
Cons
- Some of the tips and strategies may seem obvious to experienced event planners.
- The book is focused on in-person events, so it may not be as helpful for those planning virtual or hybrid events.
- The book is relatively short, so it may not cover every aspect of event planning.
Overall, we think The Non-Obvious Guide to Event Planning 2nd Edition is a great resource for anyone looking to plan a successful event. The book is full of practical advice that is easy to understand and implement. Whether you’re a seasoned event planner or just starting out, this book is definitely worth checking out.
In the first few chapters, the author, Andrea Driessen, emphasizes the importance of defining the event’s purpose and audience. She also provides tips on how to create a memorable event experience that leaves a lasting impression on attendees. The book is organized in a way that makes it easy to follow along, with each chapter focusing on a specific aspect of event planning.
One of the things we really appreciated about this book is the online resources that are provided throughout. These resources offer more in-depth information on specific topics and are incredibly useful for anyone looking to dive deeper into event planning.
Overall, we highly recommend The Non-Obvious Guide to Event Planning 2nd Edition to anyone looking to plan a successful event. The book is full of practical advice and useful resources that will help you plan an event that is both engaging and impactful.
The Event Planning Toolkit: Your Guide to Organizing Extraordinary Meetings and Events
We highly recommend The Event Planning Toolkit for anyone who wants to plan successful events.
Pros
- The book covers everything you need to know about event planning, from start to finish.
- The author provides an excellent toolkit that you can use to plan your own event.
- The audiobook version is well-narrated and easy to follow.
Cons
- The book is quite long, so it may take some time to get through.
- The author’s writing style can be a bit dry at times.
- The book is focused more on corporate events, so it may not be as useful for those planning social events.
The Event Planning Toolkit is a comprehensive guide to event planning that covers everything from choosing a venue to creating a budget to managing vendors. The author, Linda Joyce Jones, has years of experience in the event planning industry, and it shows in the depth and detail of the book.
One of the best things about The Event Planning Toolkit is the author’s toolkit, which includes templates, checklists, and other resources that you can use to plan your own event. This is especially helpful for those who are new to event planning and may not know where to start.
The audiobook version of The Event Planning Toolkit is well-narrated by Carol Jacobanis, making it easy to follow along. However, the book is quite long at over 9 hours, so it may take some time to get through.
The author’s writing style can be a bit dry at times, which may make it difficult to stay engaged with the material. Additionally, the book is focused more on corporate events, so it may not be as useful for those planning social events.
Overall, if you’re looking for a comprehensive guide to event planning that includes a toolkit of resources, The Event Planning Toolkit is an excellent choice.
Buying Guide
When it comes to selecting the best event planning book, there are a few factors to consider. We recommend taking the following into account before making your purchase:
1. Level of Expertise
Consider your level of expertise in event planning. Are you a beginner or an experienced event planner? Look for books that cater to your level of expertise. Beginners should look for books that cover the basics, while experienced event planners may want to look for books that cover more advanced topics.
2. Topics Covered
Consider the topics covered in the book. Does it cover the specific type of event planning you are interested in? Look for books that cover a wide range of topics, including budgeting, vendor management, and event marketing.
3. Writing Style
Consider the writing style of the book. Is it easy to read and understand? Look for books that are written in a clear and concise manner. Avoid books that are overly technical or difficult to follow.
4. Format
Consider the format of the book. Do you prefer a physical book or an e-book? Look for books that are available in the format that you prefer.
5. Reviews
Consider the reviews of the book. Look for books that have positive reviews from other event planners. Check online reviews and ratings before making your purchase.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose the best event planning book that meets your needs and helps you achieve your event planning goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top recommended books for mastering event planning?
There are numerous books on event planning available in the market, but some of the top recommended books by experts include “The Complete Guide to Successful Event Planning” by Shannon Kilkenny, “Event Planning: The Ultimate Guide to Successful Meetings, Corporate Events, Fundraising Galas, Conferences, Conventions, Incentives and Other Special Events” by Judy Allen, and “The Art of Event Planning: Pro Tips from an Industry Insider” by Jennafer Ross.
Which party planning books are essential for a beginner?
If you’re just starting with event planning, some essential books that can help you get started include “Event Planning for Dummies” by Susan Friedmann, “Party Planning Secrets: The Ultimate Guide to a Successful Party” by Jillian Coleman Wheeler, and “The Best Party of Your Life: Expert Tips and Inspirations for Celebrations to Remember” by Debbie Lillard.
How can an event planning organizer help in planning successful events?
An event planning organizer can help you in planning successful events by handling all the logistics, from venue selection and decor to catering and entertainment. They can also help you stay within your budget and ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day of the event.
What are some must-read books for understanding the business side of event planning?
If you’re interested in understanding the business side of event planning, some must-read books include “The Business of Event Planning: Behind-the-Scenes Secrets of Successful Special Events” by Judy Allen, “Event Planning Business: Secrets to a Successful Business Launch” by Anthony James, and “The Event Planner’s Essential Guide to Balancing Work and Life” by Judy Allen.
Final Thoughts on Best Event Planning Books
And there you have it, the curtain call on our show-stopping lineup of the best event planning books your bookshelf (and career) could ever yearn for. By now, your mind is likely brimming with strategies, your spirit is itching to innovate, and your events are practically planning themselves with the newfound knowledge you’re about to absorb.
Remember, the path to becoming an event planning maestro is not just about reading; it’s about applying the golden nuggets of wisdom you’ll unearth in these pages. So, take these books, let their pages flutter like the tent flaps of an outdoor gala, and allow the words to dance off the page and into your next big bash.
As you close the back cover on the last of these eight tomes, don’t just pat yourself on the back—stand up and take a bow. You’re not just an event planner; you’re a maestro of memories, a conductor of celebration, and now, a sage of soirees. Your events are about to become the talk of the town, the envy of competitors, and the highlight of every calendar.
We can’t wait to see the dazzling events you’ll craft with the wisdom you’ve gained. So go forth, armed with the best event planning books, and carve your name into the hall of fame of event planning extraordinaires. And when you’re basking in the glow of your next successful event, remember where your journey of enlightenment began. Now, go out there and plan, execute, and revel in the magic you create!
Ready, set, plan!