How to start an events business
Weddings, birthdays, funerals, corporate functions and festivals: South Africans love an occasion. Event planning, décor, DJs, sound and party hire are all businesses you can start small. Here is what to know before you take your first booking.
Pick your niche
Planning and coordination, décor and flowers, tents and furniture hire, sound and DJs, photography, kiddies parties: each is its own business. Starting with one lets you build a portfolio and a name. Partner with others for the rest.
Permits and safety for bigger events
- Public events need permission from the municipality, and larger events fall under the Safety at Sports and Recreational Events Act, with safety planning involving the municipality and SAPS.
- Temporary structures such as large marquees and stages can need municipal approval and an engineer's sign-off.
- Noise by-laws apply. Agree finishing times with the venue.
Alcohol
Selling alcohol at an event needs a licence from the provincial liquor authority, including special event licences. If the client or venue handles the bar, put that in writing.
Contracts and deposits
Every booking needs a written agreement: date, times, what is included, payment stages, cancellation terms, and who is responsible for damage to hired items. Take a deposit to secure the date. Your stock is your capital, so insure it. Use the free quote maker.
Getting bookings
Events are visual: post every setup on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook, and partner with venues, caterers and photographers who refer each other. A free verified BizBoost listing helps clients planning an event find you, and our guide how to choose an events company brings them looking.
Common questions
Do I need a permit to host an event in South Africa?
Public events generally need municipal permission, and larger events fall under the Safety at Sports and Recreational Events Act, which requires safety planning with the municipality and SAPS. Private functions at a venue usually rely on the venue's approvals.
Do I need a liquor licence for an event?
If alcohol is sold, yes: a licence from the provincial liquor authority, such as a special event licence. If the venue or client handles the bar, agree that in writing.
How do I get event bookings?
Show your work on social media, build referral partnerships with venues, caterers and photographers, and list your business free on BizBoost and Google.