Thursday, April 29, 2010

What are your thoughts on the event planning franchise, Plan Ahead Events? And as an independent, successful planner what do you see as the pros and cons between franchise and independent businesses. Thank you!

I really don't know much about them. This is the first time I've heard of a franchise event planning company. Interesting...

I don't think it's something I would consider investing in...especially for social events like weddings. Too much emotion is involved and I fear that a "corporate" planner would eliminate the personal touch. The bottom line...the net profit...would become the motivator instead of helping a couple host the ultimate party. IMO

Ask me anything about me or the wedding biz!

2 comments:

Kylie Carlson said...

Hi Wendy,
I have been following your site for some time now and enjoy reading your informative posts. I am based in Australia and run the Academy of Wedding and Event Planning. Australia is a very difference market to the US one & thought I would give you some feedback to the above discussion on the event planning franchise.
Franchises are huge over here in Australia & the Aussies tend to be a suspicious bunch of people. I think they would feel a little more relaxed about hiring a planner from a larger organisation than using an individual.
They still haven't really embraced the idea of hiring a wedding planner and the average bride doesn't often hire a planner for a full service. They tend to opt for 'On the Day' or 'Venue Search' packages.
I do agree with you regarding the personal touch, but we have trained many corporate girls and helped them make the transition into weddings. I think it would really come down to how the franchise agreement was set up and whether there was a huge monthly fee involved which would put financial pressure on the individual.
I suppose the other plus point for the franchise is the fact that this can be a very isolating industry and it is a way for girls to feel part of a larger group with shoulders to lean on. That would be the appeal for the planner whilst the knwoledge of dealing with a larger company would be the appeal for the bride.
Anyway, that is just my take on it all the way over here in Australia.
Keep up the great work as I love your site and often refer our girls to read your blog.

Unknown said...

Interesting Kylie...thanks for the input. I see your point and I guess there are pros and cons to everything.

Thanks for recommending the blog to your students. I welcome your feedback! :)

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