Picture this: you’ve just wrapped up an incredible event and you’re on cloud nine because everything went perfectly. The decorations were stunning, the food was delicious and the guests had the time of their lives. Now, how do you capture all that magic so future clients can see just how amazing you are? That’s where your portfolio comes in!
Start With What You’ve Got
If you’re just getting started in party planning, don’t worry if you don’t have a massive portfolio (yet!). We all start somewhere. The trick is to work with what you’ve got—whether it’s a friend’s birthday party, a family wedding, or even a styled shoot you put together for fun. Don’t underestimate the power of a small event. Even a beautifully set dinner table or a carefully designed dessert station can showcase your talent. Get creative with what you have access to!
Take Stunning Photos
Okay, here’s the deal: No one’s going to remember how fabulous that flower arrangement was if your photos are dark, blurry, or off-center. Your portfolio photos need to be top-notch! This doesn’t mean you need to hire a professional photographer for every event (though that’s a nice bonus if you can swing it). A good-quality smartphone camera, natural lighting, and a little attention to detail go a long way!
What to focus on:
- Capture the details (like centerpieces, place settings, or creative signage)
- Include wide shots of the overall setup to show the full vibe
- Don’t forget the people! Candid shots of guests having fun bring the event to life.
Highlight Your Signature Style
Your portfolio is like a sneak peek into your personal style as a party planner. Whether you lean toward rustic, elegant, quirky, or bold, let your aesthetic shine through. Potential clients want to know what makes you different from the next planner, and your portfolio is your chance to show off what makes your events you. What kind of events do I want to be known for? Are there specific colors, themes, or vibes I love working with? Make sure your portfolio reflects your unique flair!
Include Testimonials (They’re Pure Gold!)
If you’ve planned events for friends, family, or even a client or two, don’t forget to ask them for testimonials. A glowing review can add credibility and give potential clients insight into what it’s like to work with you. Plus, it’s always nice to have someone else singing your praises! After an event, send a short, friendly email asking your client or guest of honor if they’d be willing to share their experience. Make it easy by offering specific prompts like, “What did you love most about the event?” or “How did I make the planning process easier for you?”
5. Create a Digital Portfolio
In today’s world, having an online presence is non-negotiable. You want your portfolio to be easy to access, easy to share and easy to browse. Whether it’s a dedicated page on your website, an Instagram highlight reel or even a digital PDF you can email, make sure your best work is available at the click of a button. Organize your portfolio by event type (weddings, birthdays, corporate events, etc.) so potential clients can quickly find what they’re looking for. You could even create blog posts or case studies that walk through the details of specific events to give a more in-depth look at your planning process.
Keep It Fresh!
As you book more events, don’t forget to update your portfolio regularly. You don’t want it to look like you haven’t planned anything new in two years! Rotate out older events, add new photos, and keep things fresh so your portfolio always reflects your current work and style.
Don’t Hide Your Portfolio
Building a killer portfolio is all about showcasing your creativity, style, and attention to detail. Whether you’re just starting or already have a few events under your belt, a well-crafted portfolio is your ticket to landing more clients and building your party planning empire.
Need help building your portfolio (and landing the clients to fill it)? Check out my course How to Plan Parties Like a Pro where I’ll show you how to create stunning events and grow your business from the ground up. You’ve got the talent—now it’s time to show it off!
