Patience is certainly a virtue, too. Meetings and phone calls with clients before an event can seem endless as you iron out all the details. Computer, printer, fax and cell phone and a car, van or SUV to carry decorations and props to party locations. You'll also need a portfolio containing party photos, sample invitations and menus to show potential clients as well as business cards. Subscriptions to several lifestyle magazines will give you ideas and inspiration.
Some event planners tote their own ladder and tools too.
But you still have to do your own marketing to build a customer base. If you're interested in starting your own business, word of mouth is the best marketing tool. Hand out business cards to everyone. Submit an ad or blurb about your business to newsletters published by local churches, merchants' or neighborhood associations, garden clubs and schools. Anderson got to know her local direct sales representatives from organizations such Mary Kay Cosmetics, Pampered Chef and Tupperware to plan their home shows.