A certified wedding planner is someone who has completed an industry-approved educational program (covering event planning and design and sometimes small business management) and who often has substantial professional experience as well. The certification is granted by the educational authority, such as Longevity University’s Wedding Planning Institute, which offers courses through several colleges. Industry associations also have certification programs. For example, the American Association of Certified Wedding Planners requires candidates to have done full-service planning for three weddings within 18 months, have completed two mentorships by AACWP members and accredited educational courses, and furnish business credentials: a business license, proof of liability insurance, client references, and two accounts with national suppliers.