Online Schools? Which ones are worth it?

Kelli in Aurora, Colorado said: I enrolled in the QC School of Event Planning. It has the lessons for event and wedding planning. All of my course materials should be arriving tomorrow. So far I like it. I got some of the lessons online and I like that they give different templates for how to plan and budget everything. I will let you know what everything looks like once I get it.

How much does the program cost????

D2DEventplanning in Lorton, Virginia said: Hey Ali,

I am in the process of completing the course at QC Event Planning Course, it is a wonderful course and have enjoyed it very much, looking forward to getting my certification. This school provides a free website, IEWP seal and will add you to the international posting for event planners. The staff there is wonderful.

that is awesome to hear!!!! congrats. i was just wondering how much the program cost total?

Hello,
I was interested in finding out more info about what happens after getting your certificate. From what I've heard and from speaking to several event planners I understand that you can pretty much bet that you will be working long nights and weekends, when your clients are normally off of work and weekends of course when the event/wedding usually takes place. I was just wondering what type of schedule would an event planner work in the more corporate position. Like maybe a hotel or a business that conducts several meetings a week etc.. Is it at all possible to ever have a structured schedule?

I need the email address for qc wedding planning school

QC Event Planning in Ottawa, Ontario said: Hi all,
I am a student support specialist for QC School of Event Planning and I think it’s amazing that you’re taking the steps towards becoming an event planner, as it can be an incredibly fun and rewarding career. We have been offering career-based distance education training for more than 20 years, and our students receive cadillac training in business giving them the edge needed to work in this industry.
We've had the pleasure of watching thousands of dedicated students successfully complete their courses, receive their IEWP™ certification, and then go on to launch their own thriving businesses. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have. Feel free to call me toll free or email info@qceventplanning.com
Cheers,
Marina
Student Support- QC School of Event Planning

Hello, Marina
I'm extremely interested in the Event and Wedding Program , howvever, its of uttermost importance to me to become certified as an Event Planner and not just receive a certificate that is of no value. Does your program actually certify you and is it accredited?

lafinesse-weddings@hotmail.com in Kingston, Jamaica said: I need the email address for qc wedding planning school

info@qcweddingplanning.com

Hope this helps!

Tosh in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma said: Hello, Marina
I'm extremely interested in the Event and Wedding Program , howvever, its of uttermost importance to me to become certified as an Event Planner and not just receive a certificate that is of no value. Does your program actually certify you and is it accredited?

Hi Tosh,
After completing our program, you will receive the IEWP™ certification.
Our school is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB)and we have an A+ standing. Please note that the event and wedding planning industry is currently not regulated by the government, there is not one specific certification or accreditation.

In fact, you can work as an event and wedding planner without any certification. However, most event planning professionals choose to go through schooling to gain industry knowledge and trust from clients. Make sure you choose the course that's right for you so you can gain confidence as a professional.

Please contact me if you have any other questions.

Shirley Hsu
QC Event and Wedding Planning

I just enrolled at U.S. Career Institute for Wedding Consulting and Event Planning and got my first materials for my first module couple of days ago. I'm one of those who don't have much knowledge and experience on the field - but these materials that I just got are setting the path much clearer for me.

I'd definitely appreciate reading and knowing anyone's progress on this field that we're in.

Hi Melissa,

Does Sheffield offer templates such as ceremony and reception forms, photography checklists, vendor sheets ect?

Diana

Vangie in Milpitas, California said: I just enrolled at U.S. Career Institute for Wedding Consulting and Event Planning and got my first materials for my first module couple of days ago. I'm one of those who don't have much knowledge and experience on the field - but these materials that I just got are setting the path much clearer for me.

I'd definitely appreciate reading and knowing anyone's progress on this field that we're in.

Hi Vangie,

Does USCI offer hands on projects/activities that could be used to build a portfolio?

Diana

Hi Shirley,

How long does to take to get the next unit after you send in your test from the previous unit?

Diana

I am looking into taking classes for Wedding/Event Planning. I have been looking into taken classes from PennFoster, and from what I have read out of all the most recent posts you have actually taken courses from PennFoster and I was wondering what was the overall experience for you like?

Am in Fort Washington, Maryland said: I know how u feel I had to choose between 3 schools
And Sheffield seemed better for me
And I liked that they have virtual internship
And it's a real school with a real certificate
And u even get a student ID which u can get discounts
And some places.
I went to Penn foster before and it wasn't anything like
Sheffield and there books and beautiful
And easy to read. I just started yesterday
And so far I think it's a great school

Goodluck

Diana in Rocklin, California said: Hi Shirley,

How long does to take to get the next unit after you send in your test from the previous unit?

Diana

Hi Diana,
There aren't any tests you have to complete, however, you do have to finish practical assignments.
There're different shipping options based on the pricing format you choose.
Give us a call if you'd like to know more about the different options!

Shirley

Diana in Rocklin, California said: Hi Melissa,

Does Sheffield offer templates such as ceremony and reception forms, photography checklists, vendor sheets ect?

Diana

Hi Diana,

Sheffield does have templates for all of the things that you mention, as well as more that you did not. We also guide you through tailoring those templates to the specifics of the wedding or event.

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any other questions about Sheffield and our course. You can reach me at wedding@sheffield.edu.

All the best,
Caroline

I wonder if all these comments are from people working at the particular schools giving feedback as if they are a student? It is possible. Be aware and understand what you read may be written by anyone. These might be students or they may be written by the school's staff. I would call the state and check on their certifications. Check the Better Buisness Bureau for the state for a report on the business. I too am looking into on-line schools for Wedding Planning. Wish you all success and happiness. Schools need to post costs on their website. It gives the illusion the school is so expensive a phone call is required so a staff member can get your phone number and address and possibly use sale pressure to get you to join. I don't know of college in good standing that doesn't supply financial information for their students on the web. I am staying clear of them for now.

vintage_lover in Boca Raton, Florida said: Hi,
Can anyone give me advice on US Event Guide certified program? I am looking for a good school to take online Event planning coarses. Any help would be appreciated! Thank you!

I LIVE IN EAST FORT LAUDERDALE,LOOKING FOR A CREDITED SCHOOL FOR WEDDING PLANNING AND EVEN PLANNING,DOES ANYONE KNOW OF A PLACE/

Do you attend Kaplan online or a local campus? I'm looking to start online, but never noticed Kaplan has a Hospitality program.

sdL said: hi, I started one of the schools and I didnt finish..it just didn't fit what I trying to accomplish I didn't get the feel I was going to school for event planning. but the good thing is for the 1st session they didn't charge me...i've since start kaplan for hospitality ...and I love it..

I've signed up for Sheffield on June 12th and received the confirmation e-mail the next day. The total payment went through on the 15th and now on the 30th I have yet to receive anything else from the school.

I had my fiancé call and ask how long it takes to get SOMETHING from them and the receptionist said 10 business days. I called today after my mail was delivered and still nothing from the school, not even the "Welcome to the Family" post card I was promised in the e-mail. The gentleman I spoke to today took down my information and said they would get back to me as soon as possible as to why I haven't received anything either by phone or e-mail.

I'm going to wait and see what else happens and I'm hoping I wasn't tricked out of my money. It sucks being an at home mom wanting to continue education online at an affordable price only to be left in the dark about what's going to happen. I'm not working, obviously, and that money could have been used for other things.

I'm really hoping they get back to me soon before I have to contact them again to get to the bottom of everything. I chose Sheffield because of their use of color and how the school’s site is setup. The “Designer Monthly” part of their website really sold me to them as well and the course catalog I received earlier in the year while determining which school was best for me had the look and feel of what I was looking for.

I'm a color based person and really felt this was the school for me and after I had completed the wedding and event courses I wanted to take the other two courses available, both of which I've had interest in. I feel that both could help me with my career choice, but only time will tell if Sheffield is really worth it.

Here's hoping I wasn't scammed...

~ Nervously Waiting

Hi BC in Orlando,

I just saw your post on this Forum and first of all, I want to assure you that you were absolutely not scammed by the school. Secondly, I want to urge you to please contact me immediately! If you did not receive anything from us yet then it sounds like there is a serious problem.

I am the Student Advisor for the Wedding and Event Planning course and I am here to help you. Please email me at wedding @ sheffield.edu, or call me directly at the office. Ask for Caroline or punch in extension 204.

I am eager to speak to you ASAP so we can resolve this problem and get you started on the course.

All the best,
Caroline

i am in Sheffield and it does take awhile for them to get the books ready you'll receive your student ID and schedule first before yo get the books so be patient its not a scam trust me its an actual school
and there office is in NYC
they are also on Facebook.

good luck with your studies :-)

~Smiles~ Yay!

I've just gotten off the phone with Caroline and I'll be receiving my first unit hopefully no later than Monday. A complete weight has been lifted off my shoulders and I can't wait to start my courses!

Thank you again for getting in contact with me so quickly Caroline. I really appreciate it. Most of the time school's and their staff will take a day or two to get in contact with a student when they are having issues so having you call me up so quickly explaining what was going on was like a breath of fresh air.

Thank you again so much and I can't wait to start.

I'll definitely be giving updates on the courses incase anyone has any questions about the progress with the school.

~Overjoyed with Relief and Anticipation

Hi, I am considering a career change and have been looking at the QC school of event planning. I wonder if anyone can tell me if having certification allows you to charge more for your services? Also, accreditation is important to me as well, but, if you do not HAVE to be certified, then is accreditation really that important? Also, does anyone know if you can use financial aid to pay for these courses, like a PELL grant?

definetly a non credit course, gov't does not offer Pell grants,loans for certification non credit courses unfortantly, these courses are certified not degreed.

I am also looking at programs in wedding and event planning, I almost went with Us career institute but i found Sheffield and it seem to be more informational then Us career. it is only about a $100 more if that. I hope to enroll soon! good luck everyone!

Melissa in Poquoson, Virginia said: I just planned a baby shower for a friend on virtually no budget. I've been doing event planning for years but never considered making it a career until my friend suggested it. After seeing how amazed everyone was with the shower given my budget, I've started thinking about it seriously. I realized that between showers, weddings, birthday parties, fundraisers, organization events and the like, I actually have tons of experience in the field already.

Between that and my experience with running my own business, I think I could really make a go of event planning professionally. That said, I'm a firm believer in education. I feel I have solid base knowledge, but there's still so much I don't know.

I've been researching schools for the last few days, and so far I'm most impressed with the QC website. I like that it's comprehensive and gives prospective students all the information right up front. I am very busy and would rather not give my information to a school only to be plagued with calls and emails from a school that doesn't fit my needs.

Any feedback you guys can provide on programs you liked or didn't like and why would be greatly appreciated.

Hey! I am on the same page as you right now! I am currently planning a friends wedding on a budget of 5000 dollars. Though it may not turn out as beautiful as an 100,000 dollar wedding, its coming along great. I hadn't though to make it a career until a friend suggested it. I've been looking at QC, as well as Sheffield. I know you posted a while ago, what did you end up doing?

Erinne Horne in Cold Lake, Alberta said: Hi Everyone,
I am so happy I found this website too!! I have been trying to decide on a school for over a year now. I was going to take the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada course but had to cancel because my husband had to work and it was an entire weekend three hours away from home. Doesn't work with 2 small children. I basically want to learn as much as I can and be able to take what I learned and put it to work for me. I have mostly Daycare on my resume which is not going to get me anywhere in this business.
I think I have decided to go with Sheffield because it is an actual school and a lot of my friends who I have told about both schools said they would probably opt to go with someone who has done school in New York. Also I was doing the math and on QC website they state that fund are done in US Currency which makes no sense to me so in the end Sheffield in cheaper.

I am registering today and I can't wait to get started. Finally doing something for me!!

Hey Erin....how is the sheffield program going? I'm interested in that school. Let me know!

Erinne Horne in Cold Lake, Alberta said: Hi Everyone,
I am so happy I found this website too!! I have been trying to decide on a school for over a year now. I was going to take the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada course but had to cancel because my husband had to work and it was an entire weekend three hours away from home. Doesn't work with 2 small children. I basically want to learn as much as I can and be able to take what I learned and put it to work for me. I have mostly Daycare on my resume which is not going to get me anywhere in this business.
I think I have decided to go with Sheffield because it is an actual school and a lot of my friends who I have told about both schools said they would probably opt to go with someone who has done school in New York. Also I was doing the math and on QC website they state that fund are done in US Currency which makes no sense to me so in the end Sheffield in cheaper.

I am registering today and I can't wait to get started. Finally doing something for me!!

Hey Erin....how is the sheffield program going? I'm interested in that school. Let me know!

Hi AlexisV, I am shopping around right now, but I like the QC product, as it helps you set up a website, shows you what to do to start your own business, etc. I, like you, have alot of practical experience in throwing showers, my family and I did all of our own weddings, and plus I worked at a private country club and did all the planning for events there. I have a great eye, and I think I would be very good at this but cash is my problem right now.

You sound right on track. Good luck! Kate

I am also bouncing back and forth between QC and Sheffield at the moment. The big seller for me with QC is they are a member of the Better Business Bureau. They also list their rates on the website. My two questions for Sheffield would be 1) Are you BBB certified and 2) Why WOULDN'T you put tuition rates on your website, especially given that you're such an allegedly affordable / comparable deal?

Sheffield almost sounds too good to be true. But I really want to believe they're the amazing deal they seem to be.

Hi Chandra!
Do let us know if you have any further questions about our course and/or how to break into the event planning industry! We're always here to help!

Shirley

Hi Kate!
Did you have a chance to check out our monthly payment options? :)
Give us a call if you'd like and we can provide you with more info!

Shirley

Hi Chandra,

Thanks for you interest in Sheffield! Regarding your specific questions:

1) We do have an A rating with the Better Business Bureau which you can find on their website. We have not chosen to seek BBB accreditation for a variety of reasons. If you are curious about BBB accreditation and what it means I encourage you to check out the info here: newyork.bbb.org/Business-Accreditation/

2)We offer different ways to pay for the course to maximize flexibility for the students, and its a lot for the website. I would be happy to explain it all in full.

Thanks again and all the best,
Caroline

This forum has been wonderful in clearing up a couple of things for me! I am not long out of school and am really interested in doing an online course in event planning. I was looking into QC as there is a school in Australia so thought that might be better for me. Now i've heard of Sheffield, I'm interested in that but am not sure whether being overseas, there would be any disadvantages. Would it even matter being overseas?

Renae

Renae in Perth, Australia said: This forum has been wonderful in clearing up a couple of things for me! I am not long out of school and am really interested in doing an online course in event planning. I was looking into QC as there is a school in Australia so thought that might be better for me. Now i've heard of Sheffield, I'm interested in that but am not sure whether being overseas, there would be any disadvantages. Would it even matter being overseas?

Renae

Hi Renae!
There’re a few industry trends and numbers that will differ between the North American markets vs. other markets. Our course was developed with an international audience in mind, allowing you to plan events and weddings anywhere in the world!

However, the most important thing is finding the right course that fits your needs. We encourage you to find the perfect course for you :). Contact us if you’d like more information about the course or about the event planning industry.

Renae in Perth, Australia said: This forum has been wonderful in clearing up a couple of things for me! I am not long out of school and am really interested in doing an online course in event planning. I was looking into QC as there is a school in Australia so thought that might be better for me. Now i've heard of Sheffield, I'm interested in that but am not sure whether being overseas, there would be any disadvantages. Would it even matter being overseas?

Renae

Hi Renae,

Sheffield has students all around the world. There is no disadvantage to living overseas as far as our course is concerned; just the shipping logistics are different. Let me know if you have any other questions about the school or our program. Good luck!

All the best,
Caroline

I too am interested in the Wedding/Event planning Field. I was confused with sooo many schools. But I did all my research and USCI (us careers institute) was my first choice than I saw the enrollment papers etc. that they sent and they just seemed so outdated so I researched more on USCI and I read many comments saying that the course and materials were as if if it wa still the 1970's so I decided to look for another school. After Browsing about 8 online schools that didnt interest me I came across Cal State East Bay in Hayward Ca and they offer a hands on 6 month program off their Oakland campus BUT they were charging 2500 upfront. So I decided to continue a search for an online school and found Sheffield..After reading all the reviews on here and checking out their website I finally made my descision. So I will be enrolling soon...hopefully

Okay, I am also looking into Event planning and hopes to one day have my own business. I am also torn between 2 schools, Sheffield & US. Yes cost is very important to me but right now my career, education and the outcome tops it all. I want the best and rewarding school. Has anyone completed Sheffield or US Careers and if so has it been successful?

Hi all!

I came across this website months ago and it is what made me decide to enroll with Sheffield. I've been in the program for 3 months and haven't have much time for study. I have to say, it's a great comfort to me that I can work on it in my own time (since I work in retail management currently I work upwards of 60 hours some weeks), so it leaves very little time for study. It is definitely beneficial to busy ladies to have the ability to lengthen the study to make it convenient for YOU. What I've gotten so far? I have my first book and study guide and lesson plans and all that. They are great so far. The course it really really focused on wedding planning, though. I would not worry about that, however, because I am hoping to eventually plan charitable events, but I don't feel that having lessons focused on weddings will hinder me in anyway, because weddings, showers and sweet 16's are where you get your start and then you can move onto corporate planning after that.
Sheffield is all about responsibility. If you're not responsible enough to follow the lesson plans on your own and set aside time to study and work on your schooling, then it may not be a good idea for you, but the freedom is one of the things I like the most.
Hope that helps anyone who's looking into Sheffield!

I am enrolled in US career institute and I am on my last lesson. I like it so far and will be certified as an Event/Wedding Coordinator. The classes have been easy to read and to follow. I will tell ypu when I get my diploma :):):):):)

Angie in Brooklyn, New York said: THE INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF WEDDINGS REVIEW

Well I must say already I am greatly impressed and I know why others have said that their training is thorough. The training packet is 325 pages long. So for now this is my initial review as it will take me quite some time to really give it a once over. However I have flipped through a few of the pages and I again greatly impressed. I am very confident that when I am done I will have no problem opening and running my own wedding consultant buisness.

The packet comes in a binder which I love. I can add loose leaf pages of my own personal notes. Its like a textbook. Each page is typed from top to botton in your basic Times New Roman 12 pt. font. Anyway the table of contents alone is three pages front and back with a little at the top of the fourth page. Tons of information.

What I like most so far is the Business units. Just some of the things included are Proprietorship, Tax implications, book keeping and accounting, zoning requirements, Insurance requirements, Marketing strategies, Income projection, target marketing, press releases, Ads, Bridal shows, business hours, wholesale buying, pricing your services, payment policies, Assembling your portfolio, showroom office appearance, building a vendor database, how to arrange price breaks, discounts, legal warnings, defining your services, the consultation, getting the booking, performing your services, budget, managing the budget, written estimates, developing the planning schedule, contract reviews, selecting the florist, photographer etc. formal wear, orchestras, bands, dj's, lighting, bridal gown,stationary, travel arrangements, rehearsal, ceremony, reception, catering, wedding insurance, and trouble shooting.

Dear Angie,
as wondering what you thought of the course finally? did this met your expectations? did you return the QC? thanks
Danielle

Hi Danielle

I did send back the QC Event course. I just finished the first assignment for International Institute of Weddings. The questions they ask you get you ready to run your business upon graduation. It took me longer to complete than I thought it would because it really makes you think. I can't wait to get the next assignment. Once I am done with that I will be finished and receive my certificate.

I was considering working for a company when I'm finished but I'm confident that I don't need to do that now, I can be my own boss which is great. If you have a good business and marketing plan you will do fine. This course really help me fine tune both.

The only draw back I have of this school is that I have to email them a few times before I hear back from them.

Angie in Brooklyn, New York said: Hi Danielle

I did send back the QC Event course. I just finished the first assignment for International Institute of Weddings. The questions they ask you get you ready to run your business upon graduation. It took me longer to complete than I thought it would because it really makes you think. I can't wait to get the next assignment. Once I am done with that I will be finished and receive my certificate.

I was considering working for a company when I'm finished but I'm confident that I don't need to do that now, I can be my own boss which is great. If you have a good business and marketing plan you will do fine. This course really help me fine tune both.

The only draw back I have of this school is that I have to email them a few times before I hear back from them.

So I am torn between The Intl Weddings Institute, Sheffield School, US Careers. I like the fact that Intl Weddings has so much of the business side, I really want a fair share of both business and planning lessons.
Also, about the certifications, I know they are not NECESSARY to work as a planner, but are some more noteable than others? If so, which schools offer the notable certificates?
One thing I was unsure of about the Intl Weddings was there is no phone #/Contact # and it is a lot cheaper than the others?

any guidance is GREATLY appreciated!

You might want to try searching the directory at www.mycollegesandcareers.com if you're looking to back to college. They have a whole bunch of schools listed.

Another good way to find the perfect event planning course for you is to check out each school's Facebook page! Lots of information and great discussions going on!

Check us out at "QC School of Event and Wedding Planning" on Facebook!

Shirley

hey guys,

I'm interested in Sheffield and Qc. I just want to let everyone know that you can request brochures from both schools and they do have a lot of information including tuition. They are around the same price but sheffield is cheaper when paid in full. Both schools get certificates. I am leaning more towards Qc but the virtual internship Sheffield offers seems like it would be very helpful too.

Hi April,

I'm interested in the same two schools. The internship at Sheffield really interests me, but the business focus of QC seems to be very valuable. I'm not sure which would be most beneficial???

Diana

Angie in Brooklyn, New York said: Well I researched all the schools and decided to go with QC wedding planning. I opted for the payment plan of four monthly payments but I still get all the items upfront. I like that they included all the contracts and such that you will need to start your own business.It just seemed like the right fit for me, I had a good feeling about it deep down. I almost went with Penn Foster but I didn't have a relaxed feeling about it the way I do with QC.

I have helped friends and family plan weddings and everyone loved how they turned out. My mom kept telling me I should do it professionally and well, with the aggrevation that comes with working for someone else and the recession that caused so many to lose their jobs. I figure now is the time to do it. I really do enjoy weddings and helping others plan them.

As soon as I get the packet I will review it all and come back and tell you all what I think. I want to be ready to start working with a company by this summer to get my feet wet in a few situations. Then begin saving for my own business set up. Honestly I would love to have a bridal boutique/wedding consulting firm all in one. Great way to recruit customers for the consulting business without spending extra on advertising and if planning is slow there is always the sale for gowns and accessories.

So I am torn between The Intl Weddings Institute, Sheffield School, US Careers. I like the fact that Intl Weddings has so much of the business side, I really want a fair share of both business and planning lessons.
Also, about the certifications, I know they are not NECESSARY to work as a planner, but are some more noteable than others? If so, which schools offer the notable certificates?
One thing I was unsure of about the Intl Weddings was there is no phone #/Contact # and it is a lot cheaper than the others?

Angie in Brooklyn, New York said: Hi Danielle

I did send back the QC Event course. I just finished the first assignment for International Institute of Weddings. The questions they ask you get you ready to run your business upon graduation. It took me longer to complete than I thought it would because it really makes you think. I can't wait to get the next assignment. Once I am done with that I will be finished and receive my certificate.

I was considering working for a company when I'm finished but I'm confident that I don't need to do that now, I can be my own boss which is great. If you have a good business and marketing plan you will do fine. This course really help me fine tune both.

The only draw back I have of this school is that I have to email them a few times before I hear back from them.

So I am torn between The Intl Weddings Institute, Sheffield School, US Careers. I like the fact that Intl Weddings has so much of the business side, I really want a fair share of both business and planning lessons.
Also, about the certifications, I know they are not NECESSARY to work as a planner, but are some more noteable than others? If so, which schools offer the notable certificates?
One thing I was unsure of about the Intl Weddings was there is no phone #/Contact # and it is a lot cheaper than the others?

Hello all!

I noticed a few people talking about our Virtual Internship and I just wanted to say that it is actually my favorite part of the course, as it truly ties together everything you have learned and gives you the benefit of a professional critique.

We also dedicate a good portion of the course to starting and running your own business; including information about accounting, contracts, business structures, advertising and marketing, and more.

As always, I am happy to answer any and all questions about our course and content. You can reach me at wedding@sheffield.edu

All the best,
Caroline

Hi EA

Honestly I don't think one is better than the other. How can they be when they aren't even really necessary. I think its more important to be a part of a Bridal Association but you can't join one unless you have a certificate so.....

I'm planning on taking the course by ABC once I'm done with this one only because they don't let you join their Bridal Association without having their cert. and being apart of two Associations is better than one. International has an Association that you join upon graduation.