Event Planner Salary in Wilmington, NC
Event Planners in Wilmington, NC in 2026 earn approximately $28.26 per hour, which amounts to about $1,130.40 per week, $4,898.40 per month, and $58,780.80 per year.
The job demand for Event Planners is looking up with a positive growth rate of 8% per year, indicating a healthy increase in opportunities within the event planning industry in Wilmington and surrounding areas.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary for an Event Planner in Wilmington varies by experience, skill level, and employer type. Below is a breakdown of average earnings at different stages of an Event Planner's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.44 | $1,017.60 | $4,405.60 | $52,915.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.26 | $1,130.40 | $4,898.40 | $58,780.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.13 | $1,365.20 | $5,899.47 | $70,990.40 |
Do Event Planners in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is generally salary or hourly wage based. Their earnings come from project fees and salaries rather than gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn about $28.93 per hour and approximately $60,174.40 annually. When compared, Wilmington's average hourly wage of $28.26 is just slightly below the national average, with an annual salary close to it at $58,780.80.
This small difference reflects regional market variation and living cost factors in Wilmington versus the broader national market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Event Planners
Nearby areas that offer higher salaries for Event Planners include:
- Downtown Wilmington: $30.50 per hour
- Wrightsville Beach: $32.00 per hour
Event Planners working closer to Wrightsville Beach or Downtown Wilmington can expect slightly better wage opportunities than the city average.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several factors affect how much an Event Planner can expect to earn in Wilmington:
- Experience Level: More experience usually means higher pay as seasoned planners can handle complex projects efficiently.
- Skills and Specializations: Proficiency in vendor management, budgeting, and design can increase salary potential.
- Type of Clients and Events: Corporate or high-profile events often command higher fees than smaller social gatherings.
- Certification and Education: Credentials like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can boost earnings.
- Employer Size and Reputation: Larger agencies or firms with higher budgets typically offer better salaries.
How To Become an Event Planner in Wilmington
Wilmington residents interested in becoming Event Planners can enhance their prospects by following these steps:
- Education and Training: Consider courses like the Event Management and Design offered online by the University of North Carolina Wilmington or the Certified Master Wedding and Event Planner program from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
- Obtain Professional Certifications: Certifications such as the globally recognized Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) boost credibility and employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or assistant roles with event management companies help develop real-world skills.
- Network in Local Event Communities: Building relationships with vendors, venues, and clients is key for success.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Wilmington
Several well-known companies in the Wilmington area that frequently hire Event Planners include:
- McAdams Homes, LLC
- Country Club of Landfall
- Kesseböhmer
Establishments That Event Planners in Wilmington Work At
Event Planners in Wilmington work across various types of venues and organizations, including corporate offices, hotels, country clubs, wedding venues, and event planning agencies.
The type of establishment influences the salary a planner can command. For example, planners working in upscale country clubs or corporate settings generally earn more compared to those working with smaller social event firms.
Additionally, planners at specialized event companies with large-scale production capabilities may have higher earning potential than those employed in more casual or small-scale environments.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Event Planners
If you are interested in careers similar to Event Planning, you may consider the following related roles:
These positions include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and Restaurant Manager, all of which require overlapping skill sets and offer varying salary ranges within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Wilmington
Event Planners should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements that govern employment in Wilmington and North Carolina.
- Information about labor laws can be accessed through the U.S. Department of Labor website, which covers federal employment regulations.
- Specific state labor laws and employment services are provided by the Official website of the State of North Carolina, an important resource for workers and employers alike.