Event Planner Salary in Virginia Beach, VA
Event Planners in Virginia Beach, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.14 per hour, which translates to about $605.60 per week, $2,624.27 per month, and $31,491.20 per year.
The job demand for Event Planners in Virginia Beach is growing robustly at about 18% per year, indicating a strong and expanding market for event planning services in the area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Virginia Beach, VA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Virginia Beach varies based on experience and employer, but here’s a breakdown across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.08 | $523.20 | $2,265.60 | $27,110.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.14 | $605.60 | $2,624.27 | $31,491.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.52 | $700.80 | $3,003.20 | $36,441.60 |
Do Event Planners in Virginia Beach Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is primarily based on salaries or fees negotiated with clients. Any bonuses would usually come from employer discretion rather than direct tipping.
Event Planner Salary in Virginia Beach vs. National Average
Across the United States, Event Planners earn an average of about $23.29 per hour or roughly $48,443.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Virginia Beach earn less, at $15.14 per hour and $31,491.20 per year. This difference may reflect regional cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Virginia Beach for Event Planners
Nearby areas offering higher wages for Event Planners include:
- Suffolk: $35.92 per hour
- Arlington: $33.44 per hour
Event Planners commuting to Suffolk or Arlington may benefit from significantly higher pay, reflecting differences in local demand and economic factors.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Virginia Beach?
Several key factors determine the salary of an Event Planner in Virginia Beach:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced planners with advanced event coordination and management skills typically command higher salaries.
- Certifications and Training: Holding industry credentials like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can significantly enhance earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Working for corporate clients, large event venues, or prestigious organizations often offers better compensation than smaller event companies.
- Event Complexity: Planners managing large-scale or specialized events tend to earn more due to the increased responsibility and skills involved.
- Networking and Reputation: Building a strong client network and positive reputation can lead to higher-paying contracts or roles.
How To Become an Event Planner in Virginia Beach
Becoming an Event Planner in Virginia Beach involves several practical steps to acquire skills and qualifications:
- Earn Relevant Certifications: Consider pursuing recognized credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) to validate your expertise.
- Complete Educational Programs: The Event Planning Certificate at Tidewater Community College provides targeted training in event coordination, while the Hospitality Management Program at Virginia Wesleyan University offers a broader foundation in hospitality, including event management.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Internships or entry-level roles in event coordination help build practical skills and industry connections.
- Develop Key Skills: Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential to succeed in this role.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Virginia Beach
Some notable companies and organizations hiring Event Planners in the Virginia Beach area include:
- Amerigroup
- Christian Broadcasting Network
- GEICO
- Navy Exchange Service Command
Establishments That Event Planners in Virginia Beach Work At
Event Planners in Virginia Beach commonly work across a variety of settings, including:
- Corporations and Business Events: Planning conferences, meetings, and corporate functions with potentially higher salary scales.
- Hotels and Resorts: Coordinating weddings and social functions, often providing steady work with benefits.
- Non-Profit Organizations: Planning fundraisers and community events, which may have more limited budgets affecting pay.
- Convention Centers and Event Venues: Working in dedicated facilities that host large-scale events, often offering specialized roles and pay levels.
The variety of establishments influences salary ranges based on budget, event scope, and client expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Virginia Beach for Event Planners
If you're exploring similar career paths to Event Planner, here are some related roles you might consider that draw on overlapping skills.
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Restaurant Manager, all roles closely related to the planning and execution of hospitality and event services.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Virginia Beach
Event Planners should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations impacting employment in Virginia Beach. Useful resources include:
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Virginia state-specific employment regulations and resources are available at Virginia's official state website.
- The local government website vbgov.com provides information on regional labor laws and employment resources for Virginia Beach.