AACWP has set the standard for training courses for wedding planners with our In-House Training program, and we have now recreated our content virtually to offer the option for more students to take advantage of our curriculum on their own time.
The online course consists of videos from our in-house course and digital downloads of course materials. Each student has four weeks to complete the entire course (4 sections divided over one-week periods each). The best part? They still get direct interaction with our amazing Training Course Director in a live Q&A session!
Come and learn all about becoming a wedding planner and owner of a wedding planning business from the best in the business and let us help you take the next step in your career path!
AACWP’s training is the first step towards a successful career as a Certified Wedding Planner. Upon training course completion, you will receive a course completion certificate. You are then eligible to apply for membership as a Trained Wedding Planner (TWP) with AACWP.
AACWP has three designations for its members:
- Trained Wedding Planner
- Certified Wedding Planner
- Certified Master Wedding Planner
AACWP has been training professional wedding planners since 2007. Engaged couples and vendors in the industry look for professional planners, and they know the first thing to ensure competency is training and certification. There are many programs available, but only AACWP offers you an excellent curriculum, a mentor experience, continuing education, and fellowship with other professional planners.
AACWP’s online training courses provide in-depth training by experienced professional planners. Our Curriculum Committee continually strives to review, update and ensure the attendees receive the most current information on wedding planning, how to build a business and trends in the industry. AACWP believes in the importance of great education and growth. As we expand our course and broaden our curriculum, we encourage you to join us!
Payment for the complete course includes:
- Videos from our in-house training course
- Digital downloads of course materials
- Direct interaction with our Training Course Director in live Q&A sessions
For more information, please contact our Training Course Director, Stephanie Evans (training@aacwp.org).
The course sessions will be available at 1-week intervals:
The first week will give you the opportunity to go through the videos and information provided.
The second week, you will be given a homework assignment and have an opportunity for a scheduled live chat.
To receive a Certificate of Completion, you must attend all courses, pass the examination at the end of each session, and complete and pass the assigned homework.
The sections are broken down as listed below.
Defining the Role of the Wedding Planner
- Identify skills needed
- Service categories and different services offered by professional planners
- Understanding services offered by professional planners
Basics of Planning
- First phone call/email correspondence
- Building a budget
- Wedding planning timeline
- Assembling the “Dream Team” for your client
Choosing Vendors
- Building a contact list
- Compiling your database
- Organization
Presentation Personality and the Interview
- Professionalism and Personalit
- The Initial Interview
- Certification
Sales
- How to close the sale
- Utilizing your personal toolbox to make the experience beneficial for all
Systems
- How to prepare and handle as a planner
- Emergency Kit
Business Plan
- Business ownership
- Start-up information
Business Fundamentals
- Defining and developing your business
- Building your portfolio
- Advertising
- Registering
Handling Emergencies
- How to prepare and handle as a planner
- Emergency kit
- Learn a few of the most common how-to fixes that will come in handy on
- Wedding Day
Ceremony Planning
- Basic elements and ceremony structure
- Religious and cultural traditions
- Mock rehearsal and ceremony walk-through
Reception and Guest Panel
- Choosing a venue
- Floor plan—table sizes, seating, dance floors, etc.
- Banquet event orders
- Reception traditions and etiquette
- Role of planner during the reception
- Mock reception walk-through
What Our Students Are Saying
“I felt that all of the material that was covered was extremely beneficial for those of us who’ve already had a few years of experience under our belts and to those just beginning their career as a wedding planner. I would highly recommend this course to anyone that is looking to gain more knowledge and expertise in the field.”
When does the course start and finish?
Our training course dates are always published on our homepage. At the present time, we are offering one in-house training course annually in July and three online sessions in January, April and September.
Does this course apply to my area?
Yes! AACWP developed these courses using general information that applies to most weddings in the United States.
Do you allow international students?
Yes, however, we do not offer certification to international students as this requires a membership. Membership is only available to those in the United States.
Will I be certified after taking the course?
After the course, if you complete all requirements, you will receive a Certificate of Completion. To become a Certified Wedding Planner, you must become a member of AACWP and complete the requirements listed here.
When will the next course be offered?
The best way to learn about future courses is to sign up to receive our emails.
Who can I contact with more questions?
Please contact our Training Course Director, Stephanie Evans, with questions about our courses at training@aacwp.org.
