Corporate event planner

Small and mid-size companies, HR and office managers, associations and nonprofits.

Project fees or a percentage of the event budget, plus monthly retainers for companies that run regular events. Some vendors pay commissions, which should be disclosed to clients.

• Project management
• Professional networking and sales
• Budget tracking
• Handling last-minute problems

• General liability insurance, and check whether clients or venues ask for a certificate of insurance
• Contracts that clearly set scope, payment schedule, cancellation terms and who is liable for vendor deposits
• Late payment from companies, so ask for deposits and set clear payment terms
• Check with your city or county about business license requirements
• Check whether you need workers' compensation insurance once you hire event staff

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $4,000, depending on insurance, your website and the tools you use to track budgets and schedules. These are estimates, so confirm what clients and venues require before you budget.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many companies you work with and the size of their events. Late payment can happen, so ask for deposits. Plan for around 15 hours a week at minimum.

Check whether you need general liability insurance, since clients or venues may ask for a certificate. Also check your city or county about business license requirements, workers' compensation once you hire event staff, and contract terms.