Food & Hospitality

Tax help for wedding planners

Wedding and event planners offset self-employment income with travel, software, and the marketing that fills their calendar.

Prepared by real tax specialists — with Enrolled Agent or CPA review when your return calls for it.

Independent planners report on Schedule C and pay self-employment tax on net profit.

Vendor coordination, site visits, and a strong marketing presence generate most of the deductible costs.

Income you’ll report on: 1099-NEC, 1099-K.

Save money

Deductions for wedding planners

Most people in this line of work leave money on the table. Here's what we make sure to capture:

  • Event planning and client management software
  • Travel and mileage to venues and site visits
  • Marketing, website, and portfolio photography
  • A qualifying home office
  • Sample decor, supplies, and props
  • Professional association dues and certifications
  • Liability and event insurance
Watch out for

What makes your taxes different

  • Payments you collect and pass through to vendors should not be counted as your own income or double-deducted
  • Only business-use travel is deductible, not ordinary commuting
  • Income is reportable whether paid directly or through a platform
  • Quarterly estimated taxes usually apply
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Do wedding planners pay self-employment tax?

If you earn as an independent contractor, yes — self-employment tax is 15.3% (Social Security and Medicare) on your net profit, on top of regular income tax. You deduct half of it, and every business deduction lowers what you owe. We handle the calculation on Schedule SE.

What can wedding planners write off?

Common write-offs include event planning and client management software, travel and mileage to venues and site visits, marketing, website, and portfolio photography, a qualifying home office, plus a share of your phone and any home-office use. We go through your year line by line so nothing legitimate gets missed.

Do wedding planners need to pay quarterly estimated taxes?

If you expect to owe $1,000 or more for the year, the IRS generally wants quarterly estimated payments to avoid an underpayment penalty. We calculate them so next April isn't a surprise.

Do I have to report income if I didn't get a 1099?

Yes. Your income is taxable whether or not a client or platform sent a 1099. We report it correctly and offset it with every deduction you qualify for.

Taxes handled · so you can get back to work.

Tell us what you've got and we'll come back within one business day with the plan and the price · from a preparer who knows your line of work.

Tell us what you’ve got