Event Planner in Newport News, VA
Event Planners in Newport News, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $17.88 per hour, which translates to about $715.20 per week, $3,099.20 per month, and $37,190.40 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Newport News is growing positively at about 7% per year, indicating a steady increase in job opportunities and expanding events industry within the area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Newport News, VA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Newport News varies based on experience and employer type. Here is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.38 | $615.20 | $2,660.27 | $31,923.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.88 | $715.20 | $3,099.20 | $37,190.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.78 | $831.20 | $3,599.47 | $43,206.40 |
Do Event Planners in Newport News Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their role is usually salaried or hourly pay-based. Their compensation is tied to planning and coordination responsibilities rather than direct customer gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Newport News vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $22.76 per hour, which translates to about $47,340.80 per year.
Compared to this, Event Planners in Newport News earn less, making approximately $17.88 per hour and $37,190.40 annually, reflecting local economic conditions and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Newport News for Event Planners
Nearby areas offer the following pay rates for Event Planners:
- Downtown Newport News: $18.50 per hour
- Port Warwick: $19.00 per hour
Those working in Port Warwick could potentially earn higher wages compared to Downtown Newport News.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Newport News?
Several factors affect the salary of an Event Planner in Newport News:
- Experience and Skill Set: More years of experience and specialized skills in event marketing, budgeting, or logistics coordination can boost earnings.
- Type of Clients and Events: Planning corporate events or high-profile weddings tends to offer higher compensation compared to smaller-scale gatherings.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Holding certificates such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can increase earning potential.
- Networking and Reputation: A strong professional network and reputation for excellence contribute to better job offers and pay.
- Employer Type: Working for universities, corporations, or large-scale event companies often provides higher salaries than smaller event venues.
How To Become an Event Planner in Newport News
To pursue a career as an Event Planner in Newport News, consider the following paths:
- Educational Programs: Enroll in programs such as the Event Planning Certificate at Christopher Newport University which provides comprehensive training in logistics, budgeting, and marketing.
- Hospitality and Event Management Courses: The Hospitality Management Program at Thomas Nelson Community College covers essential skills including customer service and business management.
- Obtain Certifications: Industry-recognized certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) demonstrate expertise and can improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level positions in event coordination help build relevant skills and professional connections.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Newport News
Some of the prominent employers in Newport News recruiting Event Planners include:
- Christopher Newport University
- Ferguson Enterprises
- City of Newport News
Establishments That Event Planners in Newport News Work At
Event Planners typically work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Universities and Educational Institutions: Larger budgets and recurring events may increase salary potential.
- Corporate and Conference Centers: These often offer consistent work with competitive pay.
- Event and Wedding Venues: Salaries can vary depending on location prestige and event scale.
- Nonprofit Organizations: May offer lower salaries but provide valuable experience.
Establishment type significantly impacts compensation, with more commercial or high-profile clients typically leading to higher pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Newport News for Event Planners
If you’re interested in careers similar to Event Planning, here are a few related roles in hospitality you might consider:
These include Event Manager, Event Planner, and Event Coordinator, requiring similar organizational skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Newport News
When working as an Event Planner in Newport News, it is important to understand labor laws and tax responsibilities.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for federal employment regulations.
- Check the Virginia state government website for state-specific labor laws and employment resources.
- For local regulations, visit the Newport News city website providing employment and labor information.