Event Planner Salary in Suffolk, VA
Event Planners in Suffolk, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $35.92 per hour, which translates to about $1,436.80 per week, $6,226.13 per month, and $74,713.60 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Suffolk is growing steadily at about 8% per year, reflecting a strong and increasing market for event coordination and management services in the area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Suffolk, VA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Suffolk can vary depending on experience and specific responsibilities, but here is a breakdown of earnings across different experience 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 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Planners in Suffolk, VA Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their role primarily involves organizing and managing events rather than service roles that interact directly with customers in a tipping capacity. Their earnings are primarily based on salary or contracted fees.
Event Planner Salary in Suffolk, VA vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $23.33 per hour, which amounts to about $48,526.40 per year.
When compared to the national average, Event Planners in Suffolk earn significantly more, at about $35.92 per hour and $74,713.60 annually.
This increased salary in Suffolk can be attributed to the area's demand for skilled event coordination, local economic factors, and the complexity of events typically encountered.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Suffolk, VA for Event Planners
Nearby areas offer slightly varied salaries for Event Planners in the Suffolk region:
- Downtown Suffolk: $36.50 per hour
- Harbour View: $37.00 per hour
Event Planners in Harbour View tend to earn the highest hourly rates, likely due to higher costs of living and a concentration of upscale events.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Suffolk, VA?
Several factors can influence how much an Event Planner earns in Suffolk:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Event Planners command higher salaries, especially those with specialized skills such as corporate or large-scale event management.
- Type of Events Managed: Planning high-profile weddings or large corporate functions often yields higher pay than smaller or private events.
- Employer Type: Working for a large event management company or a high-end venue can provide better compensation than freelance or small business roles.
- Certifications and Education: Holding relevant certifications tends to increase earning potential.
- Networking and Reputation: An established reputation in the event industry often leads to more lucrative opportunities.
How To Become an Event Planner in Suffolk, VA
Starting a career as an Event Planner involves a combination of education, practical experience, and certifications.
Education: Consider enrolling in programs such as the Event Planning Certificate Program at Tidewater Community College or pursuing a bachelor's degree like the Hospitality Management Program at Old Dominion University that includes courses in event management and hospitality law.
Certifications: Obtaining globally recognized certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can enhance credibility and job prospects.
Practical Experience: Gaining hands-on experience through internships, assistant roles, or volunteering at events is crucial for developing skills and building a network.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Suffolk, VA
Several prominent organizations in Suffolk hire Event Planners, including:
- Smithfield Foods
- Sentara Healthcare
- City of Suffolk
- TowneBank
Establishments That Event Planners in Suffolk, VA Work At
Event Planners in Suffolk typically find employment in various establishments:
- Hotels and Convention Centers: Often require full-time Event Planners to manage conferences and large events, generally offering competitive salaries.
- Corporate Offices: Large companies frequently hire Event Planners to coordinate internal and external corporate events.
- Event Management Companies: Specialized firms that handle weddings, parties, and public events can offer diverse and flexible opportunities.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Event Planners in this sector often organize fundraising and community events, which might have different salary ranges.
The type and size of the establishment can significantly impact the salary and benefits offered to Event Planners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Suffolk, VA for Event Planners
If you're exploring career paths similar to Event Planning, consider related roles that leverage organizational and hospitality skills.
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles, all of which share overlapping skills and responsibilities in hospitality and event services.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Suffolk, VA
As an Event Planner in Suffolk, it is important to understand federal and state labor laws as well as local regulations.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor federal website for comprehensive information on labor laws and regulations.
- The Virginia Employment Commission provides state-specific employment resources and labor market data.
- For local guidelines, the City of Suffolk official website offers useful government and job-related information.