Whats the difference between an events planner and a special events director?

Answer 1

Events Planner: Generally a person who has some kind of certification (Certified Meeting Planner or CMP, Special Events Planner or SEP, etc.) or someone who has been in the industry working with clients for 3+ years. These professionals can plan events such as conventions, tradeshows, weddings, banquets, luncheons, etc. Event Planners will sometimes have their own businesses, or work for a Special Events Company that hires them to do events contracted by the business. These planner's usually work with various venues and hotels. Special Events Director: This profession is generally more focused on special activities at a specificvenue. For instance, a Special Events Director of a cruise will oversee all on-board activities, while a Special Events Director of a camp will oversee all camper activities. This profession is much more specialized and usually only works from a single location as opposed to going to different locations for various clients. These professionals also have at least 3+ years in the industry (although usually more since this would be considered a managerial position) and also carry certifications for their specialties.