Why Now Is the Best Time to Become Self-Employed in NZ: Event Planning & Decor Edition
Kia ora event planners and decor specialists! If you’ve been thinking about going self-employed, there’s no better time than now in New Zealand. As events bloom back to life, Kiwis are eager to celebrate with personal, creative touches only a passionate self-employed planner or decorator can provide. This handy guide offers actionable tips to help you build a thriving event planning and decor business tailored to NZ’s unique vibe.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Ride the Event Resurgence Wave
With gatherings back on, there’s an upswing in weddings, corporate events, and community celebrations all over NZ. This provides ample opportunities for self-employed planners and decorators to secure steady work.
From Auckland’s big city soirées to rustic farm weddings in the Waikato, each event offers a chance to showcase your creativity and build your reputation.
2. Highlight Your Unique Style
Think of your style as your signature. Whether it’s eco-friendly decor using native NZ flowers and materials or themed event planning with local flavour, specialising helps attract clients craving something authentic and unique.
Weirdly enough, Kiwis love personalised touches that reflect their culture and landscape-incorporate these into your decor and event concepts.
3. Use Yada for Easy Job Matches
Yada’s platform connects you with clients seeking event planning and decor assistance across New Zealand. Posting and responding to job requests is simple and free, without any commission or lead fees.
The rating system helps ensure you get matched with clients who value your skills, helping build a positive local reputation in cities and smaller towns alike.
4. Collect and Share Client Testimonials
Nothing sells like happy clients singing your praises. After completing an event, request testimonials that you can showcase on Yada and social media to build credibility.
Sharing real stories or photos from successful weddings or corporate events helps new clients envision the magic you can create.
5. Offer Transparent Pricing and Packages
Sets client expectations and builds trust by clearly communicating your pricing structure, including any setup or breakdown fees. Consider themed packages for certain event types to simplify choices for clients.
Yada’s no-fee setup lets you keep your pricing competitive without worrying about hidden costs cutting into earnings.
6. Leverage Local Community Marketing
Engage with local hubs like community centres, markets, and wedding expos to showcase your work and meet potential clients face-to-face. Places like Rotorua and Dunedin often host events that attract locals keen on unique event ideas.
Being visible in your community builds trust and opens doors to word-of-mouth referrals.
7. Maintain a Strong Online Presence
Clients often search online first-ensure you have a professional, easy-to-navigate profile on Yada with a portfolio of your work, pricing, and glowing reviews.
Social media posting of your latest event themes or behind-the-scenes shots also helps keep followers engaged and spreads the word organically.
8. Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Keep your skills fresh with workshops on sustainable decor, event technology, or latest NZ wedding trends. This knowledge helps you offer innovative services clients love.
Networking with other local event professionals also provides fresh inspiration and partnerships that can boost your offerings.
9. Organise Your Business Smartly
Managing bookings, suppliers, and client communications efficiently is key to smooth operations. Use digital tools alongside Yada’s internal chat and job management to keep organised.
This professionalism reassures clients and helps you handle multiple events without stress.
10. Balance Creativity with Practicality
Event planning and decor can be physically and mentally demanding. Set realistic goals, schedule downtime, and plan ahead for busy seasons to keep your passion alive.
Successful Kiwi planners know the value of looking after their wellbeing alongside their vibrant creative work.