Event Planner Salary in Lawton, OK
Event Planners in Lawton, OK, earn approximately $22.50 per hour, which calculates to around $900.00 per week, $3,900.00 per month, and $46,800.00 per year.
The job market for Event Planners in Lawton, OK shows positive growth, with a projected increase of 8% per year, indicating a healthy demand for professionals skilled in managing and organizing events across the region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Lawton, OK?
The salary of an Event Planner in Lawton, OK can vary based on several factors including experience level and employer size. Below is a breakdown of expected earnings at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.50 | $900.00 | $3,900.00 | $46,800.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
Do Event Planners in Lawton, OK Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is based on salaried or hourly wages rather than gratuities due to the nature of their professional role.
Event Planner Salary in Lawton, OK vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of about $25.00 per hour and approximately $52,000.00 per year.
Compared to this, Event Planners in Lawton earn slightly less on average at $22.50 per hour and $46,800.00 annually. This difference may reflect variations in cost of living and industry concentration.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lawton for Event Planners
Within proximity to Lawton, certain neighborhoods offer higher pay rates for Event Planners:
- Downtown Lawton: $24.00 per hour
- West Lawton: $23.50 per hour
These areas could be attractive for Event Planners seeking higher compensation opportunities in the region.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Lawton, OK?
Several key factors can impact an Event Planner’s earning potential in Lawton:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned Event Planners with proven successful events typically command higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Advanced skills such as vendor negotiation, budgeting, and event marketing, as well as certifications, can increase pay.
- Type of Employer: Working for large event venues or corporate clients usually offers better pay than smaller event service companies.
- Event Scale and Complexity: Managing large or high-profile events can result in higher compensation.
- Location Within Lawton: Areas with higher demand and commercial activity tend to offer increased wages.
How To Become an Event Planner in Lawton, OK
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Lawton involves several strategic steps:
- Education: Consider enrolling in programs like the Cameron University Event Management Program, which covers comprehensive event planning skills.
- Training: The Great Plains Technology Center Hospitality and Tourism Program provides valuable training tailored to event planning and management.
- Certifications: Pursuing certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) demonstrates expertise and can enhance job opportunities.
- Networking: Building connections with local vendors, venues, and clients is key to advancing in this career.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Lawton, OK
Lawton has several prominent employers currently recruiting Event Planners:
- Lawton Event Center
- Comanche Nation Casino
- Fort Sill MWR
Establishments That Event Planners in Lawton, OK Work At
Event Planners typically find employment in a wide variety of establishments including:
- Event Centers and Conference Venues: Often provide robust opportunities with higher pay and responsibilities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Hosting weddings, corporate events, and banquets with competitive salaries.
- Catering Companies: Focused on food and beverage events, often part of larger event planning roles.
- Non-Profit Organizations and Corporations: Managing fundraising and corporate meetings, sometimes offering specialized salary structures.
The salary can vary significantly depending on the stature and budget of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lawton, OK for Event Planners
If you’re exploring roles similar to Event Planner, consider the following positions in Lawton:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles that share overlapping skills in the hospitality and event management industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Lawton, OK
It’s essential for Event Planners to stay informed about relevant labor regulations and tax responsibilities. Helpful resources include:
- Visit the State of Oklahoma official website for information on employment laws, minimum wages, and workers’ rights.
- For federal labor laws, see the U.S. Department of Labor official website.