Event Planner Salary in Surprise, AZ
Event Planners in Surprise, AZ, earn approximately $23.52 per hour, which translates to about $940.80 per week, $4,076.80 per month, and $48,921.60 per year.
The job demand for Event Planners in Surprise is growing positively at about 6.6% per year, signaling a bright outlook with increasing opportunities in the event management field locally.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Surprise, AZ?
In Surprise, AZ, Event Planner salaries vary by experience level. Below is a breakdown of earnings at different stages in this career.
| 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 Surprise Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their role primarily involves planning, organization, and coordination behind the scenes rather than direct service to customers during events.
Event Planner Salary in Surprise vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn around $24.02 per hour and approximately $49,961.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Surprise earn slightly less hourly at $23.52 but may close the gap or exceed it as they gain more experience.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Surprise for Event Planners
Looking at nearby locations, these cities offer higher hourly wages for Event Planners:
- Tempe, AZ: $30.94 per hour
- Goodyear, AZ: $30.31 per hour
Commuting to Tempe or Goodyear may be lucrative for Event Planners seeking higher pay.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Surprise?
The salary of an Event Planner in Surprise can be influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Expertise: More skilled and experienced Event Planners command higher salaries due to their ability to manage complex events successfully.
- Specialized Skills: Proficiency in budgeting, marketing, vendor negotiation, and technology use can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Working for large corporations, luxury hotels, or event planning firms often pays better than smaller venues or freelance roles.
- Event Size and Complexity: Planning large-scale corporate events or weddings usually comes with higher pay compared to smaller social gatherings.
- Networking and Reputation: A strong network and positive client feedback often lead to higher-paying assignments and roles.
How To Become an Event Planner in Surprise
Becoming an Event Planner involves several pathways and potential certifications to enhance your career prospects:
- Gain Relevant Experience: Many Event Planners begin as Event Coordinators or assistants to learn the ropes of managing logistics and vendors.
- Earn Certifications: Consider pursuing the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) credential, which requires meeting management experience and passing a comprehensive exam covering critical event planning topics.
- Specialize with Designations: The Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) designation offered by the International Live Events Association recognizes mastery of all components of special event planning.
- Participate in Academic Programs: Enrolling in programs such as the Event Planning Certificate Program at Arizona State University equips students with essential skills like budgeting and marketing strategies.
- Build a Professional Network: Connecting with local vendors, clients, and event professionals is invaluable for career advancement and opportunity discovery.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Surprise
Several notable employers in Surprise are actively hiring Event Planners, including:
- Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
- Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant
- Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
- Barrio Queen
- O.H.S.O. Brewery + Distillery
Establishments That Event Planners in Surprise Work At
Event Planners typically find employment across a variety of establishment types in Surprise, AZ:
- Hotels and Resorts: These venues often host business conferences, weddings, and private parties, providing Event Planners with steady work and opportunities to manage large events.
- Restaurants and Banquet Halls: Event Planners working here may earn more depending on the size and type of events.
- Corporate Offices and Meeting Centers: Planning meetings and corporate events can offer salaries aligned with professional business sectors.
- Nonprofits and Community Organizations: These roles may offer less pay but offer diverse experience and community engagement.
The nature and prestige of the establishment play a key role in salary differences, with premium venues typically offering higher compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Surprise for Event Planners
If you're exploring jobs related to Event Planning, here are some similar roles you might consider:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner positions, all focusing on event organization but varying in responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Surprise
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Event Planners working in Surprise, AZ.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Arizona for detailed information about state-specific employment regulations and resources.
- For federal labor laws and workers’ rights, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Tax guidelines and resources for both individuals and businesses can be found at the Internal Revenue Service website.