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What Restaurants Do Event Planners Make the Most Money at in Orlando, FL?

restaurants where event planners make most money in orlando cover image

restaurants where event planners make most money in orlando cover image

The average hourly wage for Event Planners in Orlando is around $27 per hour, reflecting a vibrant market driven by Events, Conventions and Tourism in the city. However, earnings can vary widely based on the venue type, Event scale and clientele served.

If you're asking, "Which restaurants in Orlando offer the highest pay for Event Planners?" — this article will pinpoint some of the best options. We’ll explore top-paying venues and what influences Event Planner salaries in this bustling market. You’ll also discover tips on landing well-paid jobs in this field.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Planners in Orlando, FL

Orlando offers a vibrant Hospitality landscape supporting a lucrative market for Event Planners. From luxury Resorts to fine dining destinations, these establishments host a range of Events boosting earning potential.

Below are some standout restaurants where Event Planners can expect to earn the most:

1. Victoria & Albert's

This AAA Five Diamond award-winning restaurant, located within Disney's Grand Floridian Resort, is known for its exceptional personalized service and extravagant private Events. Its exclusivity and discerning clientele translate to higher budgets and strong compensation for Event Planners.

2. The BOATHOUSE® Disney Springs

Situated in the bustling Disney Springs district, The BOATHOUSE® specializes in waterfront dining and unique classic car displays. It's a popular venue for large private and corporate Events, providing Event Planners with opportunities to manage lively, high-profile occasions.

3. Capa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando

This rooftop steakhouse boasts scenic views and a refined atmosphere, making it a preferred location for sophisticated Events. Event Planners here coordinate upscale gatherings that offer high pay due to the venue’s premium status.

4. Kres Chophouse

Located downtown, Kres Chophouse is renowned for its historic building and vibrant dining scene. It regularly hosts corporate Events and social functions, providing a steady flow of opportunities for experienced Event Planners to earn well.

5. Hillstone Restaurant

Known for exceptional American dining and attentive service, Hillstone is favored for celebrations and business dinners. Its consistent Event bookings make it a reliable place for Event Planners seeking stable, high-paying roles.

6. Emeril’s Orlando

Celebrity Chef Emeril Lagasse’s flagship in Orlando delivers Creole and Cajun fine dining experiences. Its Event calendar includes special dinners and private functions, offering Event Planners attractive earnings in a dynamic environment.

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The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Planner Earnings in Orlando

Earnings for Event Planners differ considerably depending on the style and scale of the restaurant or venue. Upscale and luxury restaurants tend to offer higher pay due to larger Event budgets and more complex planning requirements.

Casual dining establishments may host Events less frequently or with smaller budgets, which impacts compensation. Additionally, the reputation and location of the venue play roles in influencing earnings.

Other factors affecting pay include the Event Planner’s certifications, such as CMP (Certified Meeting Professional), and experience managing high-profile or complex Events. Planners adept in technology and vendor coordination often command premium rates.

How To Find a High Paying Event Planner Job in Orlando

Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

Highlight Event Planning experience relevant to upscale dining and Hospitality, including any certifications and successful Events you’ve managed. This sets you apart for roles with better pay.

Leverage Networking

Connect with venue Managers, local Event Planning groups and Hospitality professionals. Orlando’s close-knit Event community values referrals and introductions to quality Planners.

Research Employer Reputation

Target restaurants and venues known for frequent and high-budget Events. Use online reviews and industry insights to identify employers offering competitive pay and benefits.

Stay Updated on Industry Trends

Master current Event technology platforms and sustainability practices. Demonstrating knowledge in these areas can make you a more attractive candidate for premium positions.

Prepare for Interviews

Be ready to discuss your Event success stories, problem-solving skills and how you handle client expectations. Confidence here can boost your chances of securing a high-paying job.

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

As Orlando remains a top tourist and convention destination, the need for skilled Event Planners is expected to grow steadily through 2025 and beyond. The city’s extensive Hospitality infrastructure continues expanding, increasing demand for experienced Planners.

According to labor market forecasts, the Event Planning profession nationwide is projected to grow around 10% over the next decade, with Orlando seeing similar or stronger demand due to its status as a hub for conferences, weddings and corporate functions.

Emerging trends like hybrid Events combining in-person and virtual components also create new opportunities for Event Planners who stay adaptable and tech-savvy.

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

Event Planners in Orlando typically earn between $56,000 to $70,000 annually based on the hourly average outlined earlier, with top positions and those at premier venues earning more.

Living costs in Orlando are moderate compared to other metropolitan areas:

  • Average 1-bedroom apartment rent: $1,400/month
  • Utilities (electricity, water, internet): $150/month
  • Groceries for one person: $300–$400/month
  • Transportation (car, gas or public transit): $100–$150/month

For Event Planners earning near or above average, these earnings are sufficient to maintain a comfortable lifestyle with discretionary income for entertainment and savings. High-earning Planners at luxury venues enjoy enhanced financial stability.

Success in this role often depends on continuously honing skills and aligning with venues that host lucrative Events offering generous budgets.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Orlando Event Planner Jobs

We selected these venues based on a combination of factors designed to highlight opportunities for strong earning potential:

  • Competitive Pay Rates: Restaurants known for offering salaries above the local average for Event Planners.
  • Frequent High-Budget Events: Venues with a steady calendar of upscale weddings, corporate functions and private parties.
  • Location and Reputation: Establishments situated in desirable areas of Orlando with a solid reputation among Event professionals and patrons.
  • Employee Benefits and Growth Opportunities: Employers that provide benefits and career progression paths for Planners.

These elements combine to create environments where Event Planners can thrive financially and professionally.

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