What Restaurants Do Event Planners Make the Most Money at in Kansas City, MO?

Event Planners in Kansas City typically earn around $25 per hour, although this can vary widely based on factors such as the restaurant's scale, prestige and clientele. Since their earnings often include commissions and bonuses related to event success and size, the potential for higher income is significant.

If you’re asking, "What restaurants do Event Planners make the most money at in Kansas City?" — you’ll find this article useful. We'll explore some of the area’s top restaurants known for lucrative Event Planning opportunities and discuss how various factors influence the compensation and success in this role.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Planners in Kansas City, MO

Kansas City’s expanding event scene offers many chances for Event Planners to earn competitive wages especially at restaurants with large banquet spaces or premium private event offerings. Positions in restaurants known for high-end weddings, corporate functions or social galas tend to be the most lucrative.

Below are some of the restaurants where Event Planners are known to make strong earnings:

1. The Fontaine

The Fontaine is a luxurious boutique hotel with stunning dining spaces that are often used for high-profile events and weddings. The Event Planner role here commands a strong salary due to the property’s high-end clientele and focus on exceptional service.

2. Bluestem

Bluestem is one of Kansas City’s Michelin-starred restaurants, known for its refined contemporary American cuisine. Events here demand precision and creativity, and planners benefit from the upscale environment and client budget levels.

3. The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center

Located in downtown Kansas City, The Westin features multiple event spaces within its acclaimed restaurant and hotel complex. Event Planners here manage corporate meetings, weddings and large social gatherings, making it a lucrative place for experienced professionals.

4. McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks

Known for elegant seafood and steak dining, McCormick & Schmick’s offers several private dining areas ideal for exclusive events. The restaurant's upscale ambiance attracts clients willing to invest in premium planning services.

5. Gram & Dun

Located in the historic Union Market, Gram & Dun is notable for beautiful event spaces with a rustic, yet sophisticated vibe. Event Planners here enjoy coordinating stylish weddings and bespoke social events with attentive budgets.

6. The Capital Grille

A nationally renowned steakhouse brand, The Capital Grille in Kansas City is favored for corporate dinners and upscale celebrations. The experience required and clientele’s expenditure level translate into attractive earnings for planners.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Planner Earnings in Kansas City

Earnings for Event Planners in Kansas City depend heavily on the restaurant's style, size and clientele. Upscale venues with extensive event facilities almost always offer higher pay compared to casual venues with limited event hosting.

Several important influences include:

• Event Scale: Larger venues with ballrooms or multiple private rooms generally lead to bigger events and higher budgets.
• Venue Reputation: Well-known fine-dining establishments attract affluent clients willing to spend more, increasing planner bonuses and commissions.
• Location: Downtown or trendy neighborhood restaurants with easy access for attendees often command premium rates.
• Certification & Experience: Planners with certifications like CMP or CSEP and extensive experience can negotiate better pay.

Additionally, venues focusing on weddings and corporate events often have more predictable event schedules and higher revenue streams, which can significantly improve planner earnings.

How To Find a High Paying Event Planner Job in Kansas City

Create a Professional Resume Highlighting Your Experience

Detail your background in Event Coordination, emphasizing your successes with high-profile or large-scale events. Include relevant certifications and software proficiencies to stand out to employers.

Target Upscale and Full-Service Venues

Focus your job search on restaurants and hotels that host weddings, corporate functions and galas since these venues typically offer the best compensation for Event Planners.

Network Within Local Hospitality Circles

Attend industry meetups and join local Event Planning organizations, such as the Meeting Professionals International (MPI) Kansas City Chapter, to connect with potential employers and learn about job openings.

Prepare Thoroughly for Interviews

Demonstrate your knowledge of event logistics, budgeting and client relations. Be ready to discuss how you handle challenges and optimize guest experience to show your value.

Leverage Online Job Platforms and Recruiters

Use hospitality-specific job boards and recruiters who specialize in event positions to find openings that might not be widely advertised.

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

The outlook for Event Planner jobs remains positive through 2025 and beyond as Kansas City’s hospitality industry rebounds and grows. An increasing number of businesses and social groups are hosting events once again, boosting demand for skilled planners.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of Event Planners nationwide is projected to grow about 10% over the next decade, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Locally, the steady rise in conventions, weddings and corporate meetings is reflected in new opportunities within restaurants and hotels.

In particular, Kansas City’s growing downtown event venues, combined with robust tourism and convention activity, create an encouraging environment for Event Planners seeking career growth and higher wages.

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

An Event Planner in Kansas City making around $25 per hour can expect an annual income of approximately $52,000, varying with experience and bonuses.

Kansas City’s relatively moderate cost of living makes this salary reasonable for a comfortable lifestyle. Typical monthly expenses include:

• 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (city center): $1,100
• Utilities (electricity, water, internet): $180
• Transportation (gas/metro): $150
• Groceries: $300–$450

For planners who are strategic with their budgeting, an annual salary in this range accommodates rent, bills, savings and leisure activities. The potential for commission and bonuses at high-profile events further enhances financial comfort.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Kansas City Event Planner Jobs

We selected these top-paying Kansas City Event Planner jobs based on a combination of factors gathered through extensive market research and industry feedback.

Key elements considered included:

• Competitive Salaries and Bonus Structures: We prioritized venues where planners have strong base pay and meaningful incentive opportunities.
• Reputation for Hosting High-End Events: Restaurants known for weddings, corporate galas and special events tend to offer the best earning potential.
• Location and Access: Central, accessible locations support significant event activity and higher client spending.
• Benefits and Career Growth: We factored in venues providing benefits like health insurance and opportunities for advancement.

By focusing on these criteria, we highlight environments that support both financial success and professional development for Event Planners in Kansas City.