Event Planner Salary in Lafayette, LA
Event Planners in Lafayette, LA, earn approximately $31.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and $64,480.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Lafayette is growing steadily at about 6.6% per year, reflecting an expanding market for professional event coordination and management in the region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Lafayette, LA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Lafayette varies based on experience, skills, and employer, but the following gives an overview of earnings across different levels.
| 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 | $5,866.67 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Planners in Lafayette Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their compensation is typically included in their salary or hourly wage. Their earnings are usually based on contractual agreements or employment terms without additional gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Lafayette vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $27.37 per hour, translating to about $56,929.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Lafayette earn more, roughly $31.00 per hour and $64,480.00 annually, which reflects the demand and economic conditions specific to the Lafayette area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lafayette for Event Planners
Nearby areas around Lafayette offer slightly varied salaries for Event Planners:
- Downtown Lafayette: $32.00 per hour
- River Ranch: $33.00 per hour
These neighborhoods provide some of the highest compensation opportunities nearby, influenced by the local event market and client base.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Lafayette?
Several factors can influence the salary of an Event Planner in Lafayette, LA:
- Experience: More experienced Event Planners can command higher salaries due to demonstrated skills in managing complex events.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in areas like wedding planning, corporate events, or large-scale conferences can impact pay.
- Type of Employer: Professionals working for large corporations, hotels, or established event companies often earn more than those in smaller firms or freelance roles.
- Local Market Demand: Lafayette's growing economy and event scene contribute positively to salary levels.
- Certifications and Education: Holding recognized certifications or completing relevant education programs can enhance earnings potential.
How To Become an Event Planner in Lafayette
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Lafayette involves several key steps:
- Education: Pursuing relevant programs such as the University of Louisiana at Lafayette's Hospitality Management Program, which includes event planning courses, or South Louisiana Community College's Business Administration Program with electives in event planning and management.
- Certifications: Obtaining industry-recognized credentials like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can significantly boost career prospects.
- Gain Experience: Working as an assistant or coordinator in events helps build practical skills and a professional network.
- Networking: Join local chapters of event planning associations and attend industry meetings in Lafayette to connect with employers and peers.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Lafayette
Some of the leading organizations hiring Event Planners in Lafayette include:
- Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission
- The Event Company
- Social Southern Table & Bar
Establishments That Event Planners in Lafayette Work At
Event Planners in Lafayette typically work in a variety of venues, such as:
- Hotels and Convention Centers: These often offer higher salaries due to the scale and frequency of events managed.
- Catering and Event Management Companies: Specialized companies may provide diverse projects and competitive pay.
- Corporate Settings: Corporations with in-house event planners generally provide stable employment with benefits.
- Nonprofit Organizations and Community Centers: These may offer lower salaries but valuable experience.
Salary differences are shaped by the establishment size, budget for events, and the complexity of projects managed.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lafayette for Event Planners
If you're interested in careers similar to Event Planning, here are a few related roles you might consider:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner itself, which all play important roles in the hospitality and events industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Lafayette
Event Planners should be aware of regional and federal labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and manage their earnings well.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Louisiana state workforce development and labor laws, check the Louisiana Workforce Commission.
- The City of Lafayette official website provides local resources for residents and businesses.