An event planning contract should contain the following terms:

• Agreement term – The start and end date of the agreement.
• Services – The scope of the event planner’s responsibilities (program scheduling, hiring decorators, booking entertainment, etc.).
• Payment terms – The event planner’s compensation for their services and the payment’s due date.
• Retainer – An upfront fee that secures the event planner’s services.
• Confidentiality – Ensures that any sensitive or proprietary information is not disclosed to outside parties.
• Independent contractor status – Establishes the event planner as a self-employed contractor.
• Signatures – The signatures and signing date of the parties.

Event planners are not required to hold certification to operate, though many institutions offer diplomas and degrees in fields such as event design, management, and planning. As organizing events can be a complex and demanding job, these types of programs offer knowledge and specialization to those seeking a career in event planning.