Event Planner Salary in Wilmington, DE
Event Planners in Wilmington, DE, in 2025, earn approximately $32.26 per hour, which translates to about $1,290.40 per week, $5,591.73 per month, and $67,100.80 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Wilmington is growing positively at about 7% per year, indicating increasing opportunities and industry expansion for those in the event planning profession.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Wilmington, DE?
The salary of an Event Planner in Wilmington can vary based on experience, skill level, and specific employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different career stages for this role.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $29.14 | $1,165.60 | $5,051.73 | $60,683.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $32.26 | $1,290.40 | $5,591.73 | $67,100.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.69 | $1,427.60 | $6,182.13 | $74,255.20 |
Do Event Planners in Wilmington, DE Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips, as their compensation is typically included in their salaries or hourly wages. The nature of their job being more project and coordination-based means tips are uncommon.
Event Planner Salary in Wilmington, DE vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of about $27.37 per hour or $56,929.60 annually.
Compared to this, Event Planners in Wilmington are paid higher wages, earning approximately $32.26 per hour and $67,100.80 annually. This difference suggests a relatively strong local market for skilled Event Planners in Wilmington.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Event Planners
Event Planner salaries vary within Wilmington’s vicinity. Noteworthy areas include:
- Downtown Wilmington: $33.50 per hour
- Riverfront: $34.00 per hour
Those working near the Riverfront may find slightly higher pay, reflecting the demand for event coordination in more upscale or bustling sectors.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Wilmington, DE?
Several key factors determine how much an Event Planner can earn in Wilmington:
- Experience and Expertise: More years of experience and proven success in managing complex events typically lead to higher pay.
- Type of Events Managed: Planners working on corporate, high-profile, or large-scale events tend to command better salaries compared to those focusing on smaller personal events.
- Geographic Location Within the City: Working in high-demand areas like the Riverfront can influence pay rates positively.
- Additional Skills: Expertise in budgeting, marketing, contract negotiation, and vendor management enhances earning potential.
- Education and Certifications: Formal education and recognized professional certifications can contribute to higher wages.
How To Become an Event Planner in Wilmington, DE
To pursue a career as an Event Planner in Wilmington, consider the following essential steps:
- Education: Programs like the University of Delaware's Hospitality Business Management Program provide courses in event planning and hospitality management, equipping students with valuable foundational skills.
- Certification: Obtaining credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) can enhance your qualifications and career prospects.
- Practical Experience: Gaining on-the-job experience through internships or entry-level positions helps build your portfolio.
- Specialized Training: Delaware Technical Community College's Event Planning Certificate offers comprehensive instruction covering logistics, budgeting, and marketing specifically for event planners.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Wilmington, DE
Some of the leading organizations actively seeking Event Planners in Wilmington include:
- Sodexo
- Aramark
- Compass Group
- Marriott International
- Hyatt Hotels
Establishments That Event Planners in Wilmington, DE Work At
Event Planners in Wilmington typically find employment in a variety of venues and organizations such as:
- Hotels and Resorts: Often offer higher salaries due to the scale and prestige of hosted events.
- Catering and Banquet Halls: Positions here may offer varying pay depending on clientele and event size.
- Corporate Offices and Conference Centers: Usually provide stable employment with competitive compensation for planners handling business events.
- Non-profits and Community Organizations: These might pay less but offer rewarding experiences in planning social and fundraising events.
- Wedding and Event Planning Firms: Income can fluctuate with the number and size of events managed.
The type of establishment influences not only the salary but also the complexity and variety of events an Event Planner may coordinate.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington, DE for Event Planners
If you are exploring careers related to Event Planning, here are a few similar positions to consider:
These roles include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner, each involving distinct responsibilities within the event management field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Wilmington, DE
Understanding the legal and tax frameworks is important for Event Planners in Wilmington to ensure compliance and financial well-being.
- For detailed information on state labor laws and workforce resources, visit the State of Delaware Department of Labor website.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides comprehensive national data concerning employment statistics, wages, and job prospects pertinent to Event Planners.