New York City event planners are busy, plain and simple. Between client communications, venue walkthroughs, managing timelines, and working through contingency plans, social media often falls to the bottom of the to-do list. You’re out there doing the work, not obsessing over algorithms. You didn’t sign up to be a full-time content creator. We put together this quick guide to help you decide where to focus your energy in 2025: Instagram or TikTok? Instead of guessing which platform is best, let’s figure out what actually works for you, your brand, and your ideal clients. This way, you can focus on planning unforgettable experiences and stop worrying about what to post.
First Things First: The Best of Instagram and TikTok
Both of these social media platforms offer a lot of exposure and have distinct features that are fantastic for NYC event planners. Let’s start by breaking down what Instagram and TikTok offer and how each one can help you with your event planning business.
Instagram is where visual storytelling happens. It’s been around for over a decade and has evolved into an elevated platform that’s user-friendly and wildly popular. Event planners can show off their aesthetic to potential clients in a way that feels intentional and professional. Instagram pages are usually carefully created with a specific look in mind. It’s about establishing an image that appeals to the masses.
Key Features for Event Planners:
- ✨ Visual Display: Your feed is where you make a statement. Make it look and feel like you.
- 🤝 Client-Friendly: Clients can check your Instagram before they commit to your services.
- 📸 Stories & Highlights: Quick, easy ways to show off your process, personality, or client testimonials.
- 📬 DMs & Tags: A convenient way to build relationships with venues, vendors, and future followers.
- 🎥 Reels: Short-form videos that can go viral if you pair them with trending audio and a snappy caption.
TikTok
TikTok, on the other hand, is a bit more unconventional; some would even say wild at times. It’s fun and playful with more of an authenticity factor. TikTok users are looking for a more relatable approach to content and want to see the real story. More down-to-earth, less polished.
Key Features for Event Planners:
- 🎬 Short-Form Videos: You can share quick tips, before-and-afters, or vendor shoutouts in under a minute.
- 📹 Low-Pressure Storytelling: Raw footage is welcome here. Talk through your process, tell funny stories, or share planner hacks.
- 🔍 Search-Friendly: More and more people are using TikTok like Google.
- 📈 Trends & Challenges: Hop on a trending audio clip and put your own creative spin on it.
- 🎙️ Voiceovers: Great for storytelling and walkthroughs like, “Here’s how we transformed this empty studio into a 100-guest reception.”
- 💬 Comment Threads: TikTok users love engaging, asking questions, and starting conversations.
Best Platform for NYC Event Planners
There’s no right answer here. Both Instagram and TikTok have something to offer event planners. Bottom line, you want to be where your people are looking for content.
Choose Instagram if:
- You work with clients or corporate brands who care about aesthetics.
- You already have a lot of high-quality photos from your events.
- You want a polished feed to appeal to certain clientele.
- You prefer more structured content and curated storytelling.
Choose TikTok if:
- You love sharing behind-the-scenes moments, quick tips, or vendor shoutouts.
- You want to speak to a younger, trend-savvy audience.
- You’re open to showing the real side of event planning. All the rewarding AND challenging aspects.
- You don’t mind working with video content (or learning to love it!)
Make It Work For You
If you can repurpose content across both platforms, go for it. Turn a behind-the-scenes TikTok into an Instagram reel and a highlight from your Instagram grid into a teaser video for TikTok.
But if you’re swamped (and let’s face it, you probably are), that’s okay! Choose one platform and focus on doing it really well. Social media should support your business, not stress you out. Pick the platform where you feel most natural showing up, and where your ideal clients are most likely to scroll.
Your event planning work deserves to be seen. Whichever you choose, be sure to show up authentically. That’s what clients connect with most.
Want to Know Where Else You Should Show Up? The Event Planner Expo!
Join us this October at The Event Planner Expo 2025, where the biggest names in events, marketing, and business come together in NYC for three high-energy days of inspiration, education, and serious networking. Learn from industry experts what’s trending now and leave with a game plan on how to grow your business into 2026 and beyond. Whether you’re an event professional or offer event services, this on-stop expo has one goal in mind: take your business to new heights! Get your tickets!
