How to Trust Your Own Expertise When Starting Your Wedding Planning Business

Brandi Swanson
Sep 19
3 min read

Elegant wedding setup white throne chair surrounded by lush greenery and pastel florals decor.

Starting a wedding planning business? It’s exciting, nerve-wracking, and maybe a tiny bit like standing at the edge of a high dive wondering if you should just jump already.

When I first started, I had all the questions running through my head. I kept wondering… would I feel more confident if I had another certification? A degree? Or maybe some kind of official “yes, you’re ready” from someone else?

None of that is what truly makes you ready. Here’s what I’ve learned — your own experience, passion, and gut instincts are incredibly powerful tools. Yes, education and training are great, but trusting yourself (even when you don’t feel 100% ready) is what actually moves you forward and helps you build a business that feels like yours.

Brandi of Next Chapter Weddings smile while standing beside a beautifully set reception table.

Why Self-Trust Matters

You know your magic – No one else has your exact mix of personality, skills, and life experience. Maybe you’re a master at keeping people calm, or you have a natural eye for beautiful details.

Couples want authenticity – They’re not looking for a clone of another planner — they want someone real, genuine, relatable, and confident enough to guide them.

Mistakes are part of growth – Things can go wrong sometimes, that’s just life (and weddings). Self-trust means you’ll handle it, learn from it, and keep going.

You set your own path – When you trust yourself, you build a business on your terms and create a path that fits you.

How to Build Trust in Yourself as a New Planner

1. Reflect on Your Past Experience – Maybe you’ve planned your own wedding, helped with family events, or worked in related roles. These are all valuable foundations, even if they weren’t “official” jobs. Those experiences gave you skills that will serve you well as a wedding planner.

2. Educate Yourself Continually – Books, workshops, mentors, and online resources can boost your skills but remember, knowledge alone doesn’t equal confidence. The key is putting what you learn into practice so it becomes second nature.

3. Celebrate Small Wins – A successful event, satisfied client, or solved problem is proof that you’re capable. Don’t brush past these moments. They’re what build your confidence over time and remind you that you’re moving in the right direction.

4. Connect with a Supportive Community – Find other planners or entrepreneurs who encourage and uplift you. Being around people who “get it” can make all the difference when you’re feeling unsure or need fresh ideas.

5. Practice Self-Compassion – Remind yourself that perfection isn’t the goal — showing up authentically is. There will be days when things don’t go as planned, and being kind to yourself will help you bounce back faster.

Brandi of Next Chapter Weddings assisting a bride during outdoor wedding prep.

My Journey to Self-Trust

After my first certification, I realized no course or contract was going to define my worth. What truly matters is the heart I put into every wedding, the way I care for my couples, and the effort I show up with every single time.

Learning to trust myself didn’t just change my business — it changed how I felt about my work. And if you’re just starting out, hear me when I say: you already have more than enough to begin. Trust yourself. You’ll be amazed at where it takes you.