The average hourly wage for Event Planners in Atlanta is approximately $28 per hour, reflecting the city's dynamic event and hospitality industry. However, earnings can vary significantly depending on the venue, event complexity and the planner's experience.
Curious about which restaurants pay Event Planners the most in Atlanta? This article explores some of the city's top venues where Event Planners can maximize their income. We’ll also discuss how different factors impact salaries and what steps you can take to secure a high-paying position.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Planners in Atlanta, GA- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Planner Earnings in Atlanta
- How To Find a High Paying Event Planner Job in Atlanta
- What’s the Outlook for Event Planner Jobs in Atlanta in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is an Event Planner’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Atlanta?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Atlanta Event Planner Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Planners in Atlanta, GA
Atlanta boasts a vibrant dining and event scene, where Event Planners can find lucrative opportunities in both upscale restaurants and unique venue spaces. The following restaurants are recognized not only for their exquisite offerings but also for generous compensation packages for Event Planning professionals.
1. Canoe
Nestled along the Chattahoochee River, Canoe is celebrated for its stunning natural surroundings and Southern-inspired cuisine. Event Planners here benefit from coordinating elegant outdoor and indoor events that attract corporate and private clients willing to invest heavily in their experiences.
2. The Optimist
Known for its ocean-inspired dishes and rustic charm, The Optimist offers a lively atmosphere perfect for events ranging from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. Its reputation in the community often translates to well-funded events, providing Event Planners with attractive earning potential.
3. Atlas
A luxurious venue located in the St. Regis Atlanta, Atlas is famous for its artisanal menu and opulent ambiance. With a focus on high-end events, Event Planners here have the opportunity to work with exclusive clientele and deliver premium event experiences that command top-dollar compensation.
4. Aria
This elegant restaurant in Buckhead features a modern American menu amidst a sophisticated setting. Because Aria frequently hosts upscale private parties and corporate functions, Event Planners find it to be a rewarding place in terms of both creative freedom and income.
5. South City Kitchen
Celebrated for its upscale Southern cuisine, South City Kitchen is a staple for hosting stylish events and celebrations in Atlanta. Event Planners gain from coordinating well-attended events with excellent budgets and enthusiastic clientele.
6. Empire State South
Located in Midtown, Empire State South combines a relaxed atmosphere with deep-rooted Southern flavors, making it a popular spot for both casual and formal events. Event Planners enjoy the balance between lively social settings and upscale event opportunities here.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Planner Earnings in Atlanta
The type of restaurant or venue where an Event Planner works significantly influences their earnings. Upscale and fine dining establishments typically offer higher base salaries alongside event commissions for successful bookings.
Larger restaurants and those with dedicated event spaces often provide planners with the chance to manage multiple or complex events, increasing potential bonuses and hourly pay. Conversely, casual dining spots might pay less but can provide a steadier stream of smaller-scale events.
Certification, experience and networking further affect pay scales. Event Planners with credentials like CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) or those who have built strong industry connections fetch higher rates due to their expertise and reliability.
How To Find a High Paying Event Planner Job in Atlanta
Research and Target Venues
Investigate restaurants known for hosting large or high-profile events. Focus your applications on venues with reputations for quality service and ample event business.
Enhance Your Professional Profile
Obtain relevant certifications and highlight event management experience on your resume. Emphasize any specialties such as corporate events, weddings or large-scale banquets.
Leverage Industry Networks
Attend local hospitality networking events and join professional associations to meet hiring managers and learn about job openings before they’re widely advertised.
Prepare for Interviews Thoroughly
Demonstrate your ability to handle budgeting, client relations and event logistics with clear examples and success stories from previous roles.
Use Local Job Platforms
Check specialized hospitality and event planning job boards regularly to stay updated on new opportunities in Atlanta’s bustling restaurant scene.
What’s the Outlook for Event Planner Jobs in Atlanta in 2025 and Beyond?
The demand for skilled Event Planners in Atlanta is expected to grow steadily through 2025 and beyond. The city’s expanding corporate sector, vibrant social scene and frequent special events fuel this growth.
According to projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in event planning fields within hospitality are increasing nationwide, and Atlanta’s status as a regional hub for conventions and celebrations supports this trend locally.
Additionally, the rise of hybrid and virtual events, alongside traditional in-person gatherings, offers diversified opportunities for Event Planners comfortable with evolving formats and technology.
Is an Event Planner’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Atlanta?
With an average wage of around $28 per hour, Event Planners in Atlanta can earn approximately $58,000 annually if working full-time. This income level enables a comfortable lifestyle in a city where the cost of living is moderate compared to other metropolitan areas.
The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Atlanta is about $1,500, with utilities averaging close to $150 per month. Groceries, transportation and other essentials are reasonably priced, making the salary competitive for covering living expenses with room for savings and discretionary spending.
Of course, earnings can be higher in top-tier venues or with added bonuses from large-scale events. Strategic job selection and experience growth enhance financial stability for Event Planners in the Atlanta area.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Atlanta Event Planner Jobs
To compile this list of high-paying Event Planner roles, we focused on restaurants and venues known for generous compensation packages and strong reputations within Atlanta’s hospitality industry.
We also considered factors such as benefits, venue location and clientele caliber as these influence salary potential and job satisfaction for Event Planners.
Furthermore, venues with diverse event spaces and consistent event bookings ranked higher due to the reliable earning opportunities they provide. Our criteria aim to guide professionals towards roles that offer not only good pay but also potential for career growth.
