Wedding Planner Permit Requirements in Nashville, TN

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees, operate as an LLC/corporation, or file certain business tax returns. Free from the IRS. Sole proprietors with no employees may use their SSN instead.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

1. Tennessee Business Tax License

   All Tennessee businesses must obtain a business tax license from their local county or municipality. State sales tax registration is also required for taxable businesses.

   Official government source

   $15 (standard); varies by municipality·1–2 weeks

   $15 (standard); varies by municipality

   1–2 weeks

2. General Liability Insurance (Recommended)

   Wedding planners in Tennessee are not legally required to carry liability insurance, but most venues require proof of $1M–$2M general liability coverage before allowing a planner to work on-site. Many clients also require it in your contract.

   $400–$1,200/year·Same day (online quotes)

   $400–$1,200/year

   Same day (online quotes)

1. Nashville Business License

   All businesses operating in Nashville must obtain a general Business License from the Nashville Finance Department. Wedding planners operating as sole proprietors, LLCs, or corporations need this license to legally conduct business. Renewal is required annually.

   Official government source

   $25–$100/year·1–3 weeks

   $25–$100/year

   1–3 weeks

2. DBA (Doing Business As) Registration

   If operating under a trade name (e.g., "Perfect Day Events" rather than your legal name), you must file a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) with Davidson County. This is required before accepting payments under a business name.

   $15–$50·1–2 weeks

   $15–$50

   1–2 weeks

Official Sources

• City of Nashville — Business Licensing
• Tennessee Secretary of State
• IRS — Apply for EIN

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