Last Updated on July 2, 2025 | 6 : 41 am by Fiestasline
So you’ve launched your party planning business—but now comes the big question: how do you actually get clients, especially when you don’t have a big ad budget?
Good news: you don’t need paid ads to get your first 10 clients. In fact, most successful event businesses grow first through referrals, social media, and networking. This guide shows you exactly how to land your first bookings without spending a dime on advertising.
1. Leverage Your Personal Network
Your first clients are closer than you think. Start by reaching out to:
- Friends and family
- Former coworkers
- Local connections (churches, schools, community groups)
Action Step: Send a simple message: “I just launched my party planning business! If you or someone you know needs help with a party, balloons, or setup, I’d love to help.”
Offer a launch special or discounted package in exchange for testimonials and photos.
2. Post Consistently on Instagram
Instagram is your free portfolio. Use it to show:
- Past events (even practice setups!)
- Behind the scenes of your work
- Before/after transformations
- Stories about your clients or process
Hashtag Tips: Use 3-5 local hashtags (e.g., #AtlantaEvents #HoustonBalloonDecor)
Reel Idea: Speed up a balloon garland install and set it to music.
3. Offer a Free Gig (Strategically)
One well-documented free event can bring you paid bookings fast.
Choose someone with:
- A good following or local reach
- A nice venue or aesthetic location
- An event you can fully showcase (baby shower, milestone birthday, etc.)
Deliverables:
- Get great photos + videos
- Ask for a public tag and testimonial
- Use the content in Reels, website, and Pinterest
4. Use Facebook Groups the Right Way
Join local Facebook groups related to:
- Moms or parenting
- Weddings or vendors
- Neighborhood and city groups
Best Practice: Don’t spam! Instead, answer questions, post helpful tips, or share before/after photos with a casual mention: “I helped with this party setup last weekend—it was so fun!”
You’ll build trust—and people will DM you.
5. Create a Simple Landing Page
Even without a full website, you can build trust fast with a one-page site. Use a tool like Carrd or Canva Sites.
Include:
- What you offer (balloons, decor, rentals)
- Starting price or packages
- Photos of your work
- Testimonials
- Contact form or WhatsApp/DM link
Link this page everywhere: Instagram bio, email signature, Pinterest pins.
6. Partner with Local Vendors
Reach out to:
- Bakers
- Florists
- Kids’ party entertainers
- Venue owners
Pitch: “Let’s collaborate! I’ll tag you on social posts, and you can refer clients who need decor or planning.”
Create a mini vendor referral network. Some of your best clients will come through vendors who already have events booked.
7. Add Your Business to Google Maps
Set up your free Google Business Profile. This helps you show up when people search:
- “Party planner near me”
- “Balloon garlands in [city]”
Ask your first clients to leave a review. Even 2–3 five-star reviews build major trust.
8. Document Everything Like a Pro
You don’t need a photographer—just good lighting and angles.
Content Ideas:
- Before & after event space
- Flatlays of your tools or supplies
- Time-lapse of decor being built
- Boomerang of balloons bouncing
The more you document, the faster you build trust.
9. Create a “Launch Offer” With Urgency
Give people a reason to book now:
“Book your next event by [date] and get 15% off or a free add-on!”
Add urgency: Limit it to 3–5 spots or set an expiration date.
Promote this:
- On Instagram stories + pinned posts
- In Facebook groups
- Through DMs and email
10. Ask Every Happy Client for Referrals
Once you’ve booked a few clients, ask them:
“If you know anyone planning a party, I’d love for you to pass along my info!”
Happy clients are your best marketing tool. Make it easy by giving them a link, digital card, or referral discount.
Final Word
Getting your first 10 event clients doesn’t require a big budget—it just takes strategy, consistency, and a little hustle. Use these 10 methods to build momentum, get visible in your city, and create a foundation for long-term bookings.
Start where you are. Document what you do. And remember—everyone knows someone who’s planning a party.
