Event Planner Salary in Nashville, TN
Event Planners in Nashville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $23.48 per hour, which translates to about $939.20 per week, $4,069.87 per month, and $48,838.40 per year.
The job market for Event Planners in Nashville is currently growing at a rate of 8% per year, showing a positive outlook and increasing demand for skilled professionals in the event planning industry.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Nashville, TN?
The salary of an Event Planner in Nashville varies depending on experience, expertise, and employer. Below is an overview of earnings at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.41 | $736.40 | $3,192.67 | $38,236.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.48 | $939.20 | $4,069.87 | $48,838.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.07 | $1,482.80 | $6,395.47 | $76,985.60 |
Do Event Planners in Nashville Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their compensation is typically salary or hourly based, reflecting their professional planning and coordination responsibilities rather than direct customer service roles.
Event Planner Salary in Nashville vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of about $23.48 per hour and $48,838.40 annually. This matches the average salary seen in Nashville, indicating that Nashville’s Event Planner salaries are aligned with the national market.
The cost of living and demand for events in Nashville contribute to maintaining competitive pay comparable to the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Nashville for Event Planners
Exploring salaries in nearby neighborhoods gives insight into local differences for Event Planner earnings:
- Downtown Nashville: $25.00 per hour
- Green Hills: $24.50 per hour
These areas offer somewhat higher hourly rates compared to the citywide average, reflecting a concentration of corporate events, conventions, and upscale functions.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Nashville?
Several factors play a significant role in determining how much an Event Planner can earn:
- Experience and Educational Background: Seasoned planners with a history of successful large-scale events often command higher salaries.
- Skill Set: Expertise in budgeting, vendor negotiation, and technology usage can increase earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Event Planners working for high-end hotels, corporate clients, or large event management companies usually earn more than those at smaller firms.
- Certification and Training: Holding certifications like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can positively impact salary.
- Event Scope and Complexity: Planning larger or more complicated events typically correlates with higher compensation.
How To Become an Event Planner in Nashville
Entering and advancing in the Event Planning field in Nashville can be facilitated by several actions:
- Educational Degrees: Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Event Management, such as the program with a concentration in Event Planning at Middle Tennessee State University, is valuable preparation.
- Certification Courses: Consider obtaining certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) to demonstrate expertise.
- Online Certification: The Certified Master Wedding and Event Planner course from Southwest Tennessee Community College offers comprehensive training for planners focusing on weddings and events.
- Gain Practical Experience: Volunteering or interning with event companies helps build a portfolio and network in the industry.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Nashville
Several prominent companies and venues actively seek skilled Event Planners in Nashville:
- Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
- Compass Rose Events
- Weddings & Events by Raina
Establishments That Event Planners in Nashville Work At
Event Planners can work across a variety of establishments, each influencing salary differently:
- Hotels and Large Convention Centers: These venues often have complex event needs, leading to higher salaries for planners.
- Event Planning Companies: Specialized firms provide opportunities ranging from corporate events to social celebrations.
- Catering Services and Banquet Halls: Planners here might focus more on food and service coordination.
- Nonprofit Organizations and Corporate Offices: These sectors require planners for meetings, fundraisers, and conferences, affecting pay scales.
The scale and prestige of the establishment typically correlate with salary, with larger and high-profile venues usually offering greater compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Nashville for Event Planners
If you are interested in careers related to Event Planning, consider the following roles:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Food and Beverage Manager—positions closely linked with the event and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Nashville
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is vital for Event Planners working in Nashville, TN:
- Visit the official Tennessee state website for in-depth information on local labor laws and workplace regulations.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website offers comprehensive federal employment standards and resources.