Event Planner Salary in Garden Grove, CA
Event Planners in Garden Grove, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $28.91 per hour, which translates to about $1,156.40 per week, $5,011.07 per month, and $60,132.80 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Garden Grove is growing positively at around 7% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities and career prospects for Event Planners in the area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Garden Grove, CA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Garden Grove varies based on experience and employer, but here is an overview by experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.83 | $833.20 | $3,610.67 | $43,206.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.91 | $1,156.40 | $5,011.07 | $60,132.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.62 | $1,504.80 | $6,493.87 | $77,249.60 |
Do Event Planners in Garden Grove Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips because their roles focus on coordination and management behind the scenes rather than customer-facing service where tipping is common.
Event Planner Salary in Garden Grove vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $23.71 per hour, translating to about $49,316.80 annually.
When compared to the national average, Event Planners in Garden Grove earn notably higher, at about $28.91 per hour and $60,132.80 per year. This can reflect the local market demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Garden Grove for Event Planners
In areas close to Garden Grove, salaries for Event Planners vary slightly:
- Garden Grove Downtown: $30.50 per hour
- West Garden Grove: $29.80 per hour
Those working in Garden Grove Downtown may find better pay compared to other nearby areas, though all remain competitive.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Garden Grove?
Several factors affect how much an Event Planner can earn in Garden Grove:
- Experience: More years in event management typically lead to higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Skills such as budgeting, marketing, and vendor coordination improve earning potential. Certifications like CMP or CSEP add professional value.
- Type of Events: Planning high-profile corporate, wedding, or large-scale events generally pays more than smaller or nonprofit events.
- Employer Type: Working for large hotel chains, entertainment companies, or event agencies often results in better compensation compared to smaller firms.
- Location: Urban centers or high-cost living areas like Garden Grove offer higher salaries.
How To Become an Event Planner in Garden Grove
To pursue a career as an Event Planner in Garden Grove, consider the following steps:
- Gain Formal Education: Completing certificates such as the Event Planning Certificate Program at California State University, Fullerton or the Meeting and Event Planning Certificate at University of California, Irvine provide foundational knowledge.
- Earn Certifications: Professional certifications like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can demonstrate expertise and enhance job prospects.
- Develop Relevant Skills: Build strong organizational, communication, and project management skills.
- Obtain Practical Experience: Internships, assistant roles, or volunteering at events can offer hands-on experience.
- Network: Building connections in the local event industry can help in finding job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Garden Grove
The following employers frequently hire Event Planners in Garden Grove:
- Marriott International
- Hyatt Hotels
- Live Nation Entertainment
- The Walt Disney Company
- Eventbrite
Establishments That Event Planners in Garden Grove Work At
Event Planners in Garden Grove typically find employment in a variety of settings, including:
- Hotels and Resorts: Large hotel chains offer event planning roles often with better pay and benefits.
- Catering and Banquet Services: These involve coordinating food- and beverage-related events, affecting earnings based on event scale.
- Entertainment and Convention Centers: Planning large events, conferences, or concerts can command higher salaries.
- Corporate Offices: Companies employ event planners for internal and external meetings, often providing stable income.
- Nonprofit Organizations: These may offer event planning opportunities but typically with lower pay scales.
The type and scale of establishment can significantly impact an Event Planner’s salary and career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Garden Grove for Event Planners
If you are interested in roles similar to Event Planning, here are a few related professions worth considering:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles, each with unique responsibilities but similar skill requirements and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Garden Grove
Understanding the applicable labor laws and taxes is important for Event Planners working in Garden Grove.
- For federal labor laws and employment standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Details on California-specific employment regulations and labor market information can be found at California Employment Development Department.
- The City of Garden Grove official website provides local resources and guidance relevant to workers and businesses in the area.