How to start an event planning business in Nigeria
You need skills, a clear niche, a registered business, a vendor network, a price list and simple tools. Here are the steps in order.
In short: To start an event planning business in Nigeria, choose a niche, register your business name with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), build relationships with reliable vendors, set your pricing and put simple systems in place for budgets, guests and vendors. You can start with little capital and grow through referrals.
- Build the core skills. Organisation, budgeting, negotiation and calm under pressure matter more than décor taste. Assist an established planner for a few events if you can.
- Pick a niche. Weddings, corporate events, children's parties, church programmes or galas. A clear niche makes your marketing and pricing easier.
- Register your business name with the CAC. Sole proprietors can register a business name online without a lawyer. You will need an available name (with two alternatives), ID such as your NIN, proof of address, a passport photograph and your business details.
- Open a business bank account in the registered name, so client payments and vendor costs stay out of your personal account.
- Build your vendor network. Caterers, decorators, photographers, MCs, DJs, venues and rental companies. Reliable vendors are your reputation.
- Set your prices. Decide between a flat fee, a percentage of the budget or a package. See how much event planners charge.
- Put systems in place. A contract template, a budget sheet and one place for guest lists and vendors. Attend's free Basic plan covers up to two events while you start.
Source: Moniepoint on CAC business name registration; Shecluded on starting an event planning business.
Getting your first clients
- Plan one or two events for friends or family at cost and document them well.
- Post your work on Instagram and WhatsApp Status, with the vendors tagged.
- Ask every happy client for a referral and a short review.
- Partner with venues and vendors who can recommend you.
Tools you need on day one
A contract template, the free budget template, a vendor list and a way to send invitations and track RSVPs. Attend brings the last three together and is free for up to two events.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to register my event planning business in Nigeria?
Registering your business name with the Corporate Affairs Commission gives you a legal identity for contracts and a business bank account. Sole proprietors can do it online without a lawyer.
How much capital do I need to start event planning in Nigeria?
You can start with little capital because vendors are usually paid from the client's budget. Your main early costs are registration, marketing and basic tools.
What is the most profitable event planning niche?
It depends on your network. Weddings and corporate events usually have the largest budgets; pick the one where you already have contacts.