Top 11 Event Planner Certifications

Certifications are important for event planners because they demonstrate that the planner has the necessary knowledge and skills to plan successful events. They also provide potential employers with a sense of confidence that the planner is knowledgeable in their field. Certifications can help event planners stand out from other applicants and make them more attractive to employers. Additionally, certifications could give an event planner access to additional resources or networking opportunities which could be beneficial when planning events. Finally, certifications can demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional development, which is beneficial for any profession.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Event Planners and explain how they can contribute to an event planner's career growth.

What are Event Planner Certifications?

Event planner certification is a type of professional credential that is given to individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and proficiency in the field of event planning. Event planners are responsible for organizing and overseeing the details of events such as weddings, conferences, conventions, parties, and other social gatherings. Certification provides assurance that an event planner has the skills necessary to effectively plan and manage these events.

The certification process typically requires applicants to complete courses in event management and pass a comprehensive exam. By earning this certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to professional development and prove their ability to organize successful events. This can be beneficial for both employers who want to ensure they are hiring qualified professionals, as well as event planners who are looking to build credibility in the industry.

Having an event planner certification can give professionals an edge when competing for jobs or trying to secure more clients. It also provides access to resources such as job boards, networking opportunities, industry publications, and continuing education courses. Furthermore, it can help boost confidence when working with clients by showing them that the planner has been trained in managing events from start to finish. Ultimately, having this certification helps event planners stand out from the competition and gives them the recognition they deserve for their hard work and dedication.

Pro Tip: Take advantage of free event planner certification courses available online. These courses provide a great way to learn the basics of event planning and gain valuable knowledge that can be applied to your career. Additionally, these courses may help you stand out from other applicants in the job market, as they demonstrate a commitment to professional development.

Related: What does an Event Planner do?

Top 11 Event Planner Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Event Planners today.

1. Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP)

Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) is a professional certification program for event planners. It is the only certification of its kind that recognizes the knowledge and experience of event professionals in the industry. The CSEP program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of special events planning, from concept to completion.

The CSEP program consists of four core courses: Event Planning Basics, Event Marketing and Promotion, Event Management, and Financial Management. Each course takes approximately three months to complete and includes both online and in-person instruction. Upon successful completion of all four courses, individuals are eligible to take the CSEP exam which tests their knowledge and understanding of the material presented in the courses.

To obtain the CSEP certification, individuals must first complete an application with the International Live Events Association (ILEA). The cost for this application is $75 USD. Once approved by ILEA, applicants must then register for and successfully complete all four core courses as well as pass the CSEP exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost for each course ranges from $200-$400 USD depending on location and other factors.

In total, it typically takes about one year to complete all requirements necessary to become a Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP).

2. Certified Meeting Planner (CMP)

Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) is a professional designation given by the Convention Industry Council (CIC) to meeting and event professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, experience, and professionalism in the meetings industry. It is recognized as the premier certification for meeting planners worldwide.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria and pass an exam. The CMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover all aspects of meeting planning, including legal requirements, financial management, risk management, logistics, contract negotiation, and more. Applicants must also have three years of professional experience in the meetings industry within the past five years.

The process to get certified typically takes about six months. After submitting an application and passing the exam, applicants will receive their certification within two weeks.

The cost to become certified varies depending on whether you are a member of CIC or not. For non-members it costs $450 to apply and take the exam; for members it costs $395. There may be additional fees associated with recertification every three years.

3. Certified Event Manager (CEM)

Certified Event Manager (CEM) is a professional designation that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the field of event management. It is awarded by the International Live Events Association (ILEA), which is a global organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the event industry.

The CEM program consists of three components: a comprehensive course, an exam, and experience requirements. The course covers topics such as event planning, marketing, budgeting, risk management, and legal issues. The exam tests knowledge of these topics as well as industry trends. To be eligible for the CEM designation, applicants must have at least two years of full-time experience in the event industry or equivalent part-time experience.

It typically takes six months to one year to complete all three components of the CEM program. Applicants can register for the program online through ILEA’s website. The cost varies depending on whether you are an ILEA member or non-member; it typically ranges from $1,000-$2,000 USD.

4. Certified Wedding and Event Planner (CWEP)

A Certified Wedding and Event Planner (CWEP) is a professional designation for individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of wedding and event planning. It is awarded by the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC), an international organization that provides certification, education, and networking opportunities to professionals in the wedding and event planning industry.

The CWEP certification requires applicants to complete a comprehensive course of study that covers topics such as budgeting, marketing, venue selection, vendor management, contract negotiation, customer service, and more. The course also includes an exam that must be passed with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive the certification.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete the CWEP course depending on how quickly you can work through the material.

To get certified as a CWEP you will need to register for the ABC’s online training program which costs $595 USD. After registering you will receive access to all of the course materials and have up to one year from your registration date to complete all requirements for certification.

Once you have completed all requirements for certification you will need to submit your application along with payment of $295 USD for processing fees in order to receive your official CWEP certificate from ABC.

5. Certified Event Coordinator (CEC)

A Certified Event Coordinator (CEC) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in event planning, management, and execution. The CEC certification is offered by the International Special Events Society (ISES), which is an international organization dedicated to advancing the event industry.

To receive the CEC designation, applicants must complete a two-day course and pass an exam. The course covers topics such as budgeting, marketing, legal issues, risk management, and more. After passing the exam, applicants must submit three letters of recommendation from industry professionals and provide evidence of their experience in the field.

The cost of the CEC program varies depending on your location; however, it typically ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees for materials or other services related to the program.

The time it takes to get your CEC depends on how quickly you can complete the course and pass the exam. Generally speaking, it should take around six months from start to finish if you are working at a steady pace.

6. Certified Hospitality Event Manager (CHEM)

Certified Hospitality Event Manager (CHEM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the hospitality event industry. The program is managed by the International Association of Event Managers (IAEM), an international, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting professionalism in event management.

The CHEM program is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage successful events. It covers topics such as event planning, budgeting, marketing, risk management, customer service, and more. The program also includes a comprehensive examination that tests an individual's knowledge of the hospitality event industry.

It typically takes about four months to complete the CHEM certification process. To get certified, you must first submit an application form and fee to IAEM. Once your application has been approved, you will be required to attend a two-day training course at an approved training center or online via webinar. After completing the coursework, you will be required to take a comprehensive exam that tests your knowledge of the hospitality event industry. Upon passing the exam, you will receive your CHEM certificate from IAEM.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on where you take the training course and if you choose to take it online or in person. Generally speaking, it costs between $500 - $1,000 USD for all materials and fees associated with becoming certified as a Certified Hospitality Event Manager (CHEM).

7. Certified Professional in Catering and Events (CPCE)

The Certified Professional in Catering and Events (CPCE) is an industry-recognized certification offered by the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, experience, and expertise in the catering and events industry. The CPCE certification is a valuable asset that demonstrates a commitment to professional excellence and enhances career opportunities.

To earn the CPCE credential, individuals must complete an application process that includes passing an exam with a score of 80% or higher. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering topics such as event planning, catering operations, food safety, customer service, budgeting, marketing, and more.

The application process typically takes 4-6 weeks to complete. Candidates must submit their application along with proof of education/experience in the catering/events field and payment of the application fee ($250). Once approved, candidates can register for the exam online through NACE’s website.

The cost to take the CPCE exam is $450 for members of NACE ($550 for non-members). There are no additional fees associated with becoming certified once you have passed the exam.

8. Professional Convention Management Association Certification (PCMA)

The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the highest level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of meeting and event planning. It is designed to provide an industry-standard credential for professionals working in the meetings, conventions, and events industry.

To become certified, applicants must complete an online application and meet certain educational requirements. The certification process takes approximately 4-6 weeks to complete. Applicants must have at least two years of experience in the meetings, conventions, and events industry as well as a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution. Additionally, applicants are required to pass a written exam which covers topics such as budgeting, venue selection, contract negotiation, event marketing, risk management, and more.

The cost for PCMA Certification is $495 USD for members and $695 USD for non-members. This fee includes access to the online application form as well as the written exam. Upon successful completion of the certification process, applicants will receive a digital badge that can be displayed on their website or other digital platforms.

9. International Live Events Association Certification (ILEA-CMP)

The International Live Events Association (ILEA) Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) is a certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of meeting professionals. It is the premier global certification for meeting and event professionals. The CMP credential is recognized by employers and peers alike as a mark of excellence in the industry.

To obtain the CMP designation, applicants must meet the following criteria: have at least three years of full-time professional experience in meeting or event management; complete an approved application; successfully pass the CMP exam; and agree to abide by ILEA’s Code of Ethics.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete all requirements to obtain the CMP designation. During this time, applicants must gather their work history, take and pass the CMP exam, submit an application form with supporting documents, pay any applicable fees, and attend a required orientation session.

The cost for obtaining the CMP designation varies depending on whether you are an ILEA member or non-member. For members, it costs $495 USD while non-members will need to pay $595 USD. Additional fees may apply if you need to retake any part of the exam or if you are applying after your initial application has expired.

10. Association of Bridal Consultants Certification (ABC-CWP)

The Association of Bridal Consultants Certification (ABC-CWP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills and abilities of wedding professionals. This certification is recognized by the industry as a mark of excellence in wedding planning.

The ABC-CWP program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course covers topics such as wedding etiquette, budgeting, vendor management, event design, marketing, and more. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete the course. Once you have completed the course, you can take the in-person exam at an approved testing center. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and takes about 2 hours to complete.

To become certified through ABC-CWP, you must be 18 years or older and have at least one year of experience in the wedding planning industry. You must also pay a fee for both the online course and the exam. The cost for the online course is $299 USD and the cost for the exam is $149 USD (subject to change).

Once you have successfully passed both parts of the certification process, you will receive your ABC-CWP certificate which will be valid for three years from date of issue.

11. American Institute of Floral Designers Certification (AIFD-CPE).

The American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) Certification Program (CPE) is a professional certification program that recognizes and promotes excellence in the field of floral design. The program is designed to enhance the knowledge, skills, and abilities of floral designers across the country.

The AIFD-CPE certification requires successful completion of a comprehensive written exam as well as an oral presentation of a floral design project. The written exam covers topics such as flower identification, color theory, design principles, and business practices. The oral presentation involves demonstrating your ability to create a high-quality floral design in front of a panel of certified AIFD members.

To be eligible for the AIFD-CPE certification, applicants must have at least three years’ experience in the floral industry and must submit proof of their work experience along with their application. Additionally, applicants must complete an approved course from an accredited institution or attend an AIFD-sponsored workshop prior to taking the exam.

The cost for the AIFD-CPE certification varies depending on whether you are taking the exam for the first time or renewing your certification. For first-time applicants, there is an initial fee of $400 USD plus any additional fees associated with completing an approved course or attending a workshop. For those renewing their certification, there is an annual fee of $150 USD plus any additional fees associated with completing continuing education courses or attending workshops.

In total, it can take up to one year to complete all requirements necessary for obtaining the AIFD-CPE certification.

Do You Really Need a Event Planner Certificate?

Whether or not you need an event planner certificate depends on your individual circumstances. If you are looking to start a career in event planning, then having a certificate may be beneficial. A certificate from an accredited program can give potential employers assurance that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the field. It also demonstrates that you have taken the time to formally study the profession and specialize in it, setting yourself apart from other applicants who may not have done the same.

On the other hand, if you are already experienced in event planning and do not need to pursue a formal education, then a certificate may not be necessary. You could still benefit from taking additional courses or workshops related to event planning to stay up-to-date on best practices and trends, but this is not required either. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if pursuing a certificate is worth your time and money depending on your goals and current skill set.

Related: Event Planner Resume Examples

FAQs About Event Planner Certifications

1. What is an Event Planner Certification?

Answer: An Event Planner Certification is a professional designation that demonstrates a level of expertise in the event planning industry. It is awarded by specialized organizations, such as the International Live Events Association (ILEA) or the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA).

2. How do I become certified as an Event Planner?

Answer: Becoming certified as an Event Planner typically involves completing a training program and passing a certification exam. The requirements for the certification vary depending on the organization offering it; however, some common elements include coursework in event design, management, and budgeting, as well as experience in the field.

3. What are the benefits of having an Event Planner Certification?

Answer: Having an Event Planner Certification can help you stand out from other professionals in the field, demonstrate your commitment to your profession and increase your credibility with clients. Additionally, it may provide you with access to educational resources and networking opportunities.

4. How long does it take to get certified as an Event Planner?

Answer: Depending on which certification you are pursuing and your prior experience level, it can take anywhere from several months to two years or more to become certified as an Event Planner.

5. Are there any costs associated with getting certified as an Event Planner?

Answer: Yes, there are usually fees associated with becoming certified as an Event Planner such as registration fees for training programs or exams, plus additional fees for study materials or travel expenses if required.