Event Planner Salary in Little Rock, AR
Event Planners in Little Rock, AR, earn approximately $22.50 per hour, which translates to about $900.00 per week, $3,900.00 per month, and $46,800.00 per year.
The job demand for Event Planners in Little Rock is looking up, with a positive growth rate of 8% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for event coordinating services in the area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Little Rock, AR?
The salary of an Event Planner in Little Rock varies depending on experience. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| 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 Little Rock Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on coordinating and managing events behind the scenes. Their income is generally based on salary or contractual fees rather than gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Little Rock vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $25.00 per hour, which amounts to about $52,000 annually.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Little Rock earn slightly less per hour at $22.50 and make approximately $46,800 annually. This difference reflects regional cost of living and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Little Rock for Event Planners
Looking at nearby areas within Little Rock, pay rates for Event Planners vary slightly by district:
- Downtown: $24.00 per hour
- River Market District: $23.50 per hour
Event Planners working in Downtown Little Rock tend to earn marginally higher wages compared to other districts.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Little Rock?
Several important factors affect the salary potential of Event Planners in Little Rock:
- Experience and Skill Level: Those with more years of organizing events and expertise in areas like budgeting, logistics, and marketing usually command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Event Planners working for large venues, corporations, or upscale event firms typically earn more than those in smaller agencies or non-profit organizations.
- Certifications and Education: Holding professional certifications related to event management can boost salary potential significantly.
- Network and Industry Contacts: Building strong relationships within the event industry often leads to better opportunities and higher compensation.
How To Become an Event Planner in Little Rock
To pursue a career as an Event Planner in Little Rock, consider these steps:
- Complete Relevant Educational Programs: Programs such as the University of Arkansas at Little Rock's Event Planning Certificate provide comprehensive training covering budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- Gain Hospitality Management Knowledge: Education like Pulaski Technical College's Hospitality Management Program offers valuable insights into managing venues and client relations.
- Obtain Certifications: Acquiring credentials like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) signifies proficiency and enhances employability.
- Develop Practical Experience: Working as an assistant or coordinator on smaller events builds skills and credibility.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Little Rock
The following employers in Little Rock actively hire Event Planners:
- Acorn: An Influence Company
- Cromwell Architects Engineers
- Arkansas Children's Hospital
Establishments That Event Planners in Little Rock Work At
Event Planners in Little Rock typically find work in a range of settings, including:
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues offer complex events and generally provide higher salaries.
- Convention Centers and Event Venues: These establishments employ planners for corporate functions, conferences, and social events, often with competitive pay.
- Non-Profit Organizations and Cultural Institutions: Salaries may be more modest but opportunities for meaningful work arise.
- Corporate Firms and Marketing Agencies: Corporate events with bigger budgets tend to pay more and offer varied challenges.
The salary an Event Planner earns can be significantly influenced by the type and size of the establishment they work for.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Little Rock for Event Planners
If you're interested in careers related to Event Planning, you might also consider the following roles:
Similar positions include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and other Event Planner roles, each offering unique responsibilities and compensation scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Little Rock
Event Planners in Little Rock should be aware of federal, state, and local labor laws and tax obligations to protect their rights and ensure compliance.
- Information on federal labor standards can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-level employment laws and resources, visit the Arkansas government website.
- The Little Rock city website provides local ordinances and labor-related information relevant to workers and employers.