What Restaurants Do Event Managers Make the Most Money at in Mesa, AZ?

The average hourly wage for Event Managers in Mesa is approximately $28 per hour. While the base pay is a solid foundation, it’s important to note that earnings can increase substantially through bonuses and commissions tied to event success, client satisfaction and upselling services. This article will explore which restaurants and venues in Mesa pay Event Managers well and the factors that affect their overall income.

Event Managers often earn an additional $5 to $20 per hour from these bonuses depending on the establishment’s size and clientele. Upscale venues in larger cities may see significantly higher bonus potential, but Mesa offers plenty of lucrative opportunities to those skilled at orchestrating memorable events.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Managers in Mesa, AZ

Mesa features a blend of historic venues, contemporary establishments and resorts that host a variety of events from weddings to corporate galas. These locations provide Event Managers strong earning potential thanks to frequent bookings and a focus on excellent guest experiences.

Here are some Mesa venues known for competitive compensation and career growth for Event Managers:

1. The Clayton House

A beautifully restored historic mansion that specializes in bespoke weddings and upscale private events. Event Managers here enjoy working with a discerning clientele and benefit from steady bookings and substantial commission opportunities.

2. The Venue Scottsdale

Just a short drive from Mesa, this modern event space offers a variety of customizable options for large events and social gatherings. Its popularity among corporate clients leads to lucrative management roles with generous bonuses tied to event success.

3. Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino

This resort destination offers unique event spaces and gaming entertainment, attracting a diverse clientele. Event Managers coordinate both casual and high-profile events, often earning premium pay due to the venue’s dynamic atmosphere.

4. Blue Adobe South Western Grill

Known for its colorful southwest décor and full-service event hosting, this restaurant supports a busy calendar of private parties and celebrations. Event Managers frequently receive tips alongside salary through excellent customer appreciation.

5. Durant's

A classic steakhouse with a storied history in nearby Phoenix, Durant’s is a preferred location for high-end dinners and events. Its reputation helps Event Managers command competitive wages with potential for performance bonuses during peak seasons.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Manager Earnings in Mesa

The kind of establishment where an Event Manager works strongly influences their earning potential. Upscale venues typically offer higher base salaries and the opportunity to earn bonuses based on event scale and client spending.

Casual or mid-tier restaurants may offer slightly lower base pay, but consistent scheduling and manageable event sizes can yield steady bonus income. Location within the city and proximity to tourist or business centers also affect client budgets and manager compensation.

• Upscale Venues: Often provide base wages ranging $25 – $35 per hour, with bonuses possibly adding $15 – $25 per hour during event seasons.
• Mid-tier or Casual Restaurants: Typically pay $20 – $28 per hour, with smaller but more frequent bonuses of about $5 – $12 per hour.
• Certified Event Managers: Holding relevant certifications such as CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) can increase job prospects and earnings.
• Independent Event Spaces: May provide more variable pay depending on client volume but can offer higher commission percentages.

How To Find a High Paying Event Manager Job in Mesa, AZ

Research and Target High-End Venues

Focus your job search on upscale restaurants, resorts and dedicated event spaces around Mesa and the greater Phoenix area where Event Managers tend to earn more due to the nature of the clientele and event scale.

Craft a Strong Resume Highlighting Experience

Emphasize any past success managing diverse event types, budget oversight, vendor management and client satisfaction. Highlight certifications that showcase your commitment and expertise.

Network within the Local Hospitality Industry

Attend industry mixers, join local professional groups and connect with venue Managers and event companies to uncover untapped job opportunities and gain referrals.

Ace Your Interview

Prepare to discuss your event planning strategies, problem-solving skills and experience with event budgeting. Demonstrating thorough knowledge about the venue and local market impresses hiring Managers.

Follow Up and Demonstrate Enthusiasm

Sending a personalized thank you note or email after interviews reinforces your professionalism and interest in the role, setting you apart from other candidates.

What’s the Outlook for Event Manager Jobs in Mesa, AZ in 2025 and Beyond?

Event Manager jobs in Mesa are expected to experience steady growth over the coming years, fueled by rising population and an expanding hospitality sector. As Mesa continues to develop its tourism offerings and corporate presence, the demand for experienced Event Managers will rise.

According to projections, the broader event planning industry is anticipated to grow approximately 10% between 2023 and 2030, slightly faster than average occupational growth. Mesa’s strategic location in the Phoenix metropolitan area makes it a hub for regional conferences, weddings and social functions.

Factors influencing growth include:

• The increasing popularity of destination weddings and corporate retreats in Arizona
• Investment in event-related infrastructure and venues
• Development of new hospitality businesses and restaurants focusing on event hosting capabilities

Is an Event Manager’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Mesa?

An Event Manager in Mesa typically earns around $28 per hour plus bonuses that can add an extra $5 to $20 per hour, depending on the venue and season. That translates into an estimated annual income range of $65,000 to $85,000 including bonuses.

Mesa is known for its relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger Arizona cities like Phoenix or Scottsdale. For example, average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Mesa runs about $1,200 per month, while utilities can add roughly $150 monthly.

Groceries, transportation and healthcare costs are similarly moderate, making the total monthly expenses manageable on an Event Manager's salary, especially when bonuses are factored in. This income level allows for comfortable living, some discretionary spending and potential savings.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Mesa, AZ Event Manager Jobs

To determine the top-paying jobs for Event Managers in Mesa, we conducted extensive research across job marketplaces, industry reviews and local business relations.

We evaluated a variety of factors to identify opportunities offering a balance of competitive base pay and impactful bonus schemes, including:

• Salary Scale: Venues with above-market base pay rates for event planning roles
• Bonus & Commission Structures: Locations known to reward outstanding event success with incentives
• Venue Reputation: Established businesses with consistent event bookings and positive reviews from both employees and clients
• Career Growth Potential: Opportunities for advancement and professional development within the organization

These criteria ensure that the establishments highlighted provide not only strong financial rewards but also a positive working environment and stable employment outlook.