What Restaurants Do Event Planners Make the Most Money at in Charleston, SC?

The average hourly wage for Event Planners in Charleston is approximately $28 per hour. Still, earnings can vary widely depending on the nature of the establishment, event scale and individual experience. Charleston's thriving event and hospitality scene means there are plenty of lucrative opportunities for skilled planners.

If you're asking yourself, "What restaurants do Event Planners make the most money at in Charleston?" — this article will help you navigate the top restaurants that offer rewarding pay. We’ll also explore how different factors affect your salary and share tips on landing a high-paying Event Planning role.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Planners in Charleston, SC

Charleston has an impressive culinary scene with many restaurants offering event spaces for weddings, corporate gatherings and social events. Event Planners can find lucrative opportunities in venues that combine fine dining with detailed event management.

Below are some of the best-paying restaurants to consider if you're planning a career as an Event Planner in Charleston:

1. Husk

Husk is renowned for its celebration of Southern ingredients and innovative cuisine. With a strong emphasis on locally sourced produce, its event spaces cater to upscale private parties, making it a desirable spot for Event Planners who want to coordinate high-end affairs.

2. The Dewberry

The Dewberry offers a stylish, mid-century modern ambiance paired with exquisite Southern hospitality. Its elegant event venues, including rooftop terraces and intimate dining rooms, provide planners the chance to organize chic receptions that command premium budgets.

3. Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar

Set right on the Charleston waterfront, Fleet Landing delivers stunning views alongside fresh seafood dishes. The restaurant’s large event rooms and outdoor patios are perfect for sizeable celebrations, allowing planners to manage both dining and scenic settings effectively.

4. Slightly North of Broad (SNOB)

SNOB blends coastal charm with traditional Lowcountry cuisine, making it a favorite for sophisticated southern events. Known for personalized service and warm atmosphere, Event Planners here can expect consistent opportunities to work with high-spending clients.

5. Market Pavilion Hotel

While technically part of a hotel, the Market Pavilion’s in-house restaurant boasts beautiful event spaces designed for lavish weddings and corporate functions. Planners benefit from a high-end client base and ample resources offered by the venue's integrated services.

6. Poogan’s Porch

Poogan’s Porch is a historic Charleston staple with a cozy, classic Southern vibe. Catering smaller, intimate events, this venue offers planners a more personal touch experience and steady clientele willing to invest in memorable occasions.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Planner Earnings in Charleston

Earnings for Event Planners can differ significantly depending on the type of restaurant and event they manage. Upscale establishments often provide higher pay but also demand more experience and skills in coordinating detailed events.

Several factors influence pay rates for Event Planners across Charleston’s restaurant scene:

• Venue Prestige: High-profile or historic venues generally assign larger budgets to planners, allowing for higher salaries or commissions.
• Event Size and Complexity: Coordinating large weddings or corporate events requires more expertise and typically results in better compensation.
• Certifications and Experience: Planners with specialized training, such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), often command higher wages.
• Seasonality: Charleston’s event season peaks during spring and fall, which can affect income consistency.

Casual or smaller bistro-style restaurants might offer steadier but lower pay, focusing on smaller-scale events such as private dinners or cocktail parties.

How To Find a High Paying Event Planner Job in Charleston

Build a Strong Portfolio

Having documented experience with successful events, especially at upscale venues, is crucial. Include photos, testimonials and detailed event plans to showcase your skills.

Network Within the Industry

Attend Charleston hospitality and event industry mixers, join professional associations and connect with venue managers and catering companies to uncover hidden job opportunities.

Gain Relevant Certifications

Certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) enhance your credibility and earning potential.

Update Your Resume and Cover Letter

Tailor your resume to highlight coordination skills, vendor management and previous high-end event experience. A personalized cover letter for each application can make a strong impact.

Prepare for Interviews Thoroughly

Demonstrate your problem-solving abilities, organizational skills and knowledge of Charleston’s event market. Discuss how you can add value to their specific restaurant or venue.

What’s the Outlook for Event Planner Jobs in Charleston in 2025 and Beyond?

The outlook for Event Planner positions in Charleston remains positive through 2025 and beyond, fueled by the area's status as a popular destination for weddings, corporate events and tourism-related functions.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a growth rate of about 10% over the next decade for meeting, convention and Event Planners nationally. Charleston, with its boom in hospitality and conference activities, is expected to reflect or surpass this trend.

Factors contributing to sustained demand include:

• Rising Tourism and Wedding Rates: Charleston’s historic appeal continues drawing new visitors and celebrations.
• Corporate Events Expansion: An increasing number of businesses choose Charleston for retreats and conferences.
• Diversification of Venues: New restaurant openings and boutique hotels offer fresh opportunities for planners.

Event Planners with strong local networks and flexible skills are well-positioned to capitalize on this growth.

Is an Event Planner’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Charleston?

With an hourly wage averaging $28, a full-time Event Planner in Charleston can gross roughly $58,000 annually before taxes. This salary provides a comfortable lifestyle given the city’s cost of living.

Monthly expenses to consider include:

• Average Rent (1-Bedroom Apartment): $1,200 – $1,600
• Utilities: Approximately $150
• Transportation: $100 – $150 for gas and insurance
• Groceries and Dining: $300 – $450

Event Planners working in well-paying venues often complement their salary with performance bonuses or commissions, making it feasible to save and enjoy Charleston’s vibrant cultural lifestyle.

Ultimately, maintaining strong relationships with popular venues and continually developing professional expertise will maximize your earning potential in Charleston’s hospitality market.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Charleston Event Planner Jobs

We selected these top-paying venues based on extensive research involving job listings, employee reviews and direct industry insights. Our aim was to highlight restaurants that offer both competitive salaries and opportunities to work on high-profile events.

Key factors we considered include:

• Reputation: Long-standing establishments with a strong foothold in Charleston’s event market
• Benefits: Restaurants providing health insurance, paid time off and career development support
• Location: Venues located in prime Charleston areas attracting affluent clientele
• Event Volume and Scale: Places that host numerous and large-scale events for consistent work opportunities

These combined factors create an environment where Event Planners can grow professionally and earn a satisfying income.