Why WPIC Certification is the Global Standard for Professional Wedding Planners

By Tracey Manailescu, Co-Founder of WPIC Inc.

If you’re a wedding planner, whether brand new or years into the game, here’s something I want you to know:

Being passionate about weddings is a beautiful thing. But being prepared to run a business and lead your clients with confidence? That’s where true success begins.

Since 2003, we’ve certified over 10,000 wedding professionals in 37 countries through The Wedding Planners Institute of Canada (WPIC Inc.). And I can tell you this with my whole heart, there’s something incredibly powerful about being part of a global community of educated, ethical, and business-savvy planners who take their craft seriously.

So, if you’ve ever felt like you need more support, more knowledge, or just want to be seen as the go-to professional in your market, this is your invitation.

We’re More Than a Course. We’re a Global Movement.

WPIC-Certified planners are working all over the world planning luxury weddings in Paris and Dubai, managing multi-day events in Mexico, creating magic in the Caribbean, and making dreams come true in small towns and big cities alike.

They’ve been featured in Vogue, Wedluxe, Martha Stewart Weddings, Wedvibes Media, Munaluchi Bride, Wedding Chicks, The New York Times, and countless other top media outlets. And they all started right here, with us.

Why? Because WPIC Certification gives you the real tools you need to run a successful wedding business, not just how to style a tablescape (although we love a good charger plate, too 😉).

What You’ll Actually Learn

This isn’t fluff. This is foundational. In our certification course, we cover:

• Business Basics: How to register your business, protect yourself legally, price your services, and build systems that keep you organized.
• Client & Vendor Communication: Because setting expectations and maintaining professional boundaries are non-negotiable.
• Cultural Sensitivity: You’ll learn how to serve clients from all backgrounds with the respect and intention they deserve.
• Planning & Coordination: From timelines to crisis management, we make sure you’re ready for anything.
• Ethics & Industry Standards: WPIC-certified planners are held to a professional Code of Ethics, and we don’t take that lightly.

We teach you how to show up as a business owner, not just a creative.

This Certification Opens Doors

And no, I’m not just talking about figurative doors. WPIC Certification can literally change your career:

✔ Get listed on our planner directory that couples and venues use to find professionals they can trust
✔ Be part of our private global alumni community full of support, referrals, and collaborations
✔ Gain credibility with venues, vendors, and international resort brands
✔ Be recognized as a trained, ethical, and insured planner who means business
✔ Access exclusive WPIC events, summits, masterclasses, and travel opportunities

From One Planner to Another

Look, I know firsthand how isolating this career can feel sometimes. Like you’re figuring it all out on your own. Or wondering if people will take you seriously. Or asking yourself if you’re “doing it right.”

That’s exactly why WPIC exists. We built this certification to empower planners, not gatekeep knowledge. We’re here to support your growth, not judge your path. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been planning for years without a formal certification, you’re welcome here.

Because this industry is big enough for all of us, and it’s stronger when we lift each other up.

Are You Ready to Stand Out?

If you’re ready to get the tools, knowledge, and confidence to own your role as a professional planner—WPIC Certification is your next step.

Let’s take your passion and turn it into a thriving, respected business that clients (and vendors!) are proud to work with.

Visit wpic.ca to learn more and join thousands of certified planners around the world who are doing what they love, and doing it right.

You deserve to be seen. You deserve to be respected.
Let us help you get there.