Almost no one grows up saying, “I want to work in live events.”

So how do people actually find their way into event planning and event management?

In this episode of So You Want to Be an Event Planner, we break down the real entry paths into live events and normalize non-linear career journeys. We explore how people migrate into the field from hospitality, theatre, marketing, sport, nonprofits, corporate roles, and technology—and why transferable skills matter more than having a “perfect” background. This episode also addresses the permission problem that causes many capable people to hesitate before claiming a place in the field.

If you’re a student, career-switcher, or early professional wondering how to get into event planning or whether you belong in this industry, this episode is for you.

1. There is no single or “correct” path into event planning
2. Most event professionals migrate from adjacent fields
3. Transferable skills matter more than credentials at entry level
4. Career switching is common—and often advantageous
5. Belonging in events is claimed through practice, not permission

1. Career migration
2. Transferable skills
3. Entry pathways
4. Permission problem
5. Adjacent industries

Map your own path—real or hypothetical—into events.

What skills do you already have that live events need?

Episode 4: Where the Jobs Actually Are

If people get into events in many ways, where do they actually work? Next, we’ll break down who hires event planners and event managers—and how the event labor market really functions.

1. Hospitality and venue operations
2. Theatre and live performance production
3. Marketing and experiential teams
4. Nonprofit fundraising events
5. Corporate internal events