Event Planners in Jackson typically earn an average hourly wage of around $25 per hour. However, earnings can vary significantly depending on the type of venue, event size and the planner's experience. Jackson's dynamic hospitality scene offers a range of opportunities, from casual gatherings to upscale events.
Curious about which restaurants and venues pay Event Planners the most in Jackson? This article will highlight some of the top-paying restaurants and locations in Jackson, MS, that hire Event Planners, and will also explore how various factors influence salary potential and what steps you can take to secure a higher-paying role.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Planners in Jackson, MS- 1. Walker's Drive-In
- 2. The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen
- 3. The Iron Horse Grill
- 4. Char Restaurant
- 5. The Fairview Inn
- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Planner Earnings in Jackson
- How To Find a High Paying Event Planner Job in Jackson
- What’s the Outlook for Event Planner Jobs in Jackson in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is an Event Planner’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Jackson?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Jackson Event Planner Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Planners in Jackson, MS
Jackson has a variety of dining establishments and venues that host events, providing lucrative opportunities for Event Planners to maximize their income. These restaurants often balance elegance with approachable charm, catering to both local and visiting clientele.
Below are some of the top restaurants and venues in Jackson known to pay well for Event Planners:
1. Walker's Drive-In
Walker’s Drive-In is celebrated for blending contemporary Southern cuisine with a historic setting. The venue’s rustic charm and versatile event spaces make it a sought-after spot for weddings and corporate events, offering Event Planners solid earning potential.
2. The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen
At The Manship, the focus on locally sourced, wood-fired dishes creates a unique atmosphere popular for private dining and special occasions. Planners here benefit from a steady demand for curated event experiences in a modern, cozy setting.
3. The Iron Horse Grill
Known for its Southern Hospitality and classic Southern dishes, The Iron Horse Grill doubles as an event venue for community gatherings and private celebrations, making it a reliable option for Event Coordinators seeking consistent work and competitive pay.
4. Char Restaurant
Char combines a stylish atmosphere with a menu focused on steaks and seafood, attracting upscale clientele. Its dedicated banquet facilities enable Event Planners to design high-profile events with higher budgets and commensurate compensation.
5. The Fairview Inn
The Fairview Inn offers an upscale, historic venue ideal for weddings and corporate events, with an emphasis on gourmet Southern cuisine. Event Planners here typically earn more due to the sophisticated clientele and larger scale events hosted.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Planner Earnings in Jackson
The type of restaurant or venue plays a major role in an Event Planner's earnings. Upscale restaurants that handle large weddings or corporate functions tend to pay more due to the scope and budget of the events.
Casual dining spots or local favorites often host smaller, less complex events, which might result in lower base salary but potentially more frequent bookings. Flexibility and multi-tasking skills can also influence earnings here, especially in bustling environments.
Certifications such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or event-specific training may boost pay levels across all venue types, signifying professionalism and an ability to manage complex logistics effectively.
How To Find a High Paying Event Planner Job in Jackson
Research and Target Upscale Venues
Focus your job search on venues known for hosting high-budget events, such as luxury Hotels, upscale Restaurants and historic Inns. These locations usually offer better pay and more significant tips or bonuses.
Build a Strong Portfolio
Assemble a portfolio showcasing your successful events, highlighting large scale or upscale functions. This will demonstrate your value to potential employers and clients.
Network within Jackson's Hospitality Industry
Attend industry events, join local planning associations, and connect with Venue Managers. Strong professional relationships can lead to referrals and exclusive job opportunities.
Enhance Your Skill Set
Obtain relevant certifications and continue developing skills in budgeting, logistics and client relations to increase your marketability and salary potential.
Prepare for Interviews
Practice articulating your event planning process, problem-solving abilities and experience managing various types of events. Showcasing strong communication and organizational skills is essential.
What’s the Outlook for Event Planner Jobs in Jackson in 2025 and Beyond?
The outlook for Event Planner positions in Jackson remains positive and promising. With the city's growing social and corporate scenes, demand for experienced Planners to coordinate a variety of events is expected to increase through 2025 and beyond.
According to industry data, the Hospitality and events sectors in Jackson are rebounding and expanding, fueled by increased local tourism, weddings and business events. This growth translates to steady job opportunities and potential wage increases for skilled Event Planners.
Additionally, venues focusing on customized guest experiences and hybrid or virtual event capabilities are driving demand for Planners who adapt to evolving event trends.
Is an Event Planner’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Jackson?
At an average hourly rate of about $25 per hour, an Event Planner in Jackson can expect an annual income near $52,000 before taxes, assuming full-time work. This salary is competitive when aligned with the city’s relatively low cost of living.
Jackson offers affordable housing options, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment hovering around $900 per month. Utilities, groceries and transportation costs are also lower than many larger metropolitan areas, allowing Event Planners to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
When working at higher-paying venues or managing larger events, Planners often benefit from bonuses or commissions, increasing their overall earning potential and ability to save or invest.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Jackson Event Planner Jobs
We selected the highlighted Restaurants and venues based on a combination of factors ensuring the best earning potential and work environment for Event Planners in Jackson.
- Pay Rates: Restaurants and venues offering competitive base salaries and bonuses.
- Event Volume and Size: Locations regularly hosting mid-to-large scale events that provide substantial earning opportunities.
- Reputation and Clientele: Venues known for high-profile or premium clients resulting in bigger budgets and better compensation.
- Location: Proximity to popular Jackson neighborhoods and access to a broad client base.
These elements combine to create environments where Event Planners can maximize income while building valuable experience.
