Books Every Event Planner Should Read

Ah, “books”. A pastime to some, a treasure to others. Whether you’re a tablet reader or love the smell and feel of paper in your hands, we’ve got some awesome romantic beach reads…just kidding. We’ve picked out some killer, self-motivating books to help advance the careers of event planners.

The books on our list offer a wide variety of how-to guides to becoming a stellar event professional. Learn more about how to utilize your personality to excel, conquer the newest industry trends, create a picture perfect wedding, succeed in the restaurant world, and produce a standard event, no matter what your experience.

How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie

In 1937, leadership lecturer Dale Carnegie delivered a classic book, that is still relevant today, with behavioral pointers that demonstrate how people can achieve professional and personal success.

Carnegie believed that if people can express ideas courageously and generate excitement among others, they have the ability to lead. It’s all in the way one manages and influences others that drives success. Makes it sound easy!

Special Events: A New Generation and the Next Frontier by Joe Goldblatt

As the event industry continues to evolve, so does this amazing resource that focuses on the events of today.

Joe Goldblatt, an accomplished events professional and educator, provides an in-depth look at event management, including green events and corporate social responsibility.

The Wedding Book: The Big Book for Your Big Day by Mindy Weiss

If you’re a bride or an event planner, check out celebrity wedding planner Mindy Weiss’ wedding planning book. Planning nuptials, bridal showers, a rehearsal dinner, and a reception is usually described as costly and stressful!

Absorb the step-by-step pointers Weiss’ book gives for a wedding at any budget. We bet stress levels will decrease just a bit.

Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business by Danny Meyer

Renowned hospitality entrepreneur Danny Meyers shares his innovative ideas on how to manage teams in the hospitality industry.

His unorthodox belief that a manager’s team takes priority over the customers, and even investors, has led him to massive success in a widely cutthroat business.

Confessions of an Event Planner: Case Studies from the Real World of Events–How to Handle the Unexpected and How to Be a Master of Discretion by Judy Allen

Confessions of an Event Planner is a story about a fictional events company that endures your everyday corporate crises – scandal, last-minute snafus, budget disasters, and more.

It gives a real life look on how to think on your feet, and is a succinct training tool without the boring industry jargon.