Event Planner Salary in Chattanooga, TN
Event Planners in Chattanooga, TN, in 2026, earn approximately $31.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,260.00 per week, $5,460.00 per month, and $65,520.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Chattanooga is growing at around 8% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities and an expanding market in event coordination and management in the region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Chattanooga, TN?
The salary of an Event Planner in Chattanooga varies according to experience level, skills, and employer, but the following table gives a clear overview across different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Planners in Chattanooga Earn Tips?
Typically, Event Planners do not earn tips as their compensation is usually salary or hourly based. Their work behind the scenes and coordination efforts are not commonly supplemented by gratuities or tipping.
Event Planner Salary in Chattanooga vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of about $23.09 per hour and approximately $48,027.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Chattanooga earn notably more at about $31.50 per hour and $65,520.00 annually, which can be attributed to the regional demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chattanooga for Event Planners
Nearby areas that offer competitive pay for Event Planners include:
- Downtown Chattanooga: $32.50 per hour
- North Shore: $33.00 per hour
Event Planners in these neighborhoods often benefit from higher rates due to the concentration of event venues and corporate clients.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Chattanooga?
Several important factors affect how much an Event Planner earns in Chattanooga:
- Experience Level: More experienced Event Planners typically command higher salaries due to refined skills and proven track records.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in project management, negotiation, vendor relations, and certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) can boost pay.
- Type of Employer: Planners working for large corporations, upscale venues, or event management firms usually earn more than those at smaller operations.
- Event Scale and Complexity: Managing larger or more complex events tends to increase compensation due to higher responsibility.
- Network and Reputation: Established professionals with strong connections in the Chattanooga event community generally secure better opportunities.
How To Become an Event Planner in Chattanooga
To pursue a career as an Event Planner in Chattanooga, there are several key steps you can take:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Consider programs like the Event Planning Certificate at Chattanooga State Community College, which covers budgeting, marketing, and logistics in detail.
- Pursue a Degree: A bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga provides a solid foundation with specific courses in event management and marketing.
- Earn Certifications: Gaining credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) underscores your expertise.
- Gain Experience: Volunteer or intern with local event companies or venues to build your portfolio and practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Chattanooga
Some of the prominent organizations and companies seeking skilled Event Planners in Chattanooga include:
- BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee
- Unum
- CBL Properties
Establishments That Event Planners in Chattanooga Work At
Event Planners in Chattanooga typically find employment in a range of establishments such as:
- Corporate Offices: Coordinating meetings, conferences, and corporate events with often higher pay due to company budgets.
- Hotels and Convention Centers: Managing weddings, banquets, and large events which generally offer stable salaries and opportunities for growth.
- Wedding and Event Venues: Focused on private and social occasions; pay varies widely depending on clientele and event size.
- Event Planning Firms: Handling a variety of client events and often providing robust experience and competitive compensation.
Salary can vary significantly depending on the size and prestige of the establishment as well as the complexity of events managed.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chattanooga for Event Planners
Those interested in Event Planning might also consider related roles in the hospitality and events industry.
This includes opportunities as an Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner, roles that share overlapping skills and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Chattanooga
Event Planners should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor regulations to ensure compliance and proper tax handling.
- Visit the State of Tennessee's Department of Labor and Workforce Development website for state-specific employment laws and workforce regulations.
- For federal standards and guidelines, see the U.S. Department of Labor's official website, which provides detailed information about workplace rights and employer obligations.