What Restaurants Do Event Planners Make the Most Money at in Saint Paul, MN?

The average hourly wage for Event Planners in Saint Paul is approximately $27 per hour. However, earnings can vary significantly based on the venue’s size, type and clientele, among other factors.

If you’re curious about which restaurants and venues in Saint Paul offer the best pay for Event Planners, this article will walk you through the top-paying establishments. Additionally, we’ll explore how factors like venue type and certifications influence your potential salary in this field.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Planners in Saint Paul, MN

Saint Paul features a variety of venues where skilled Event Planners can maximize their earnings. These restaurants and event spaces stand out not only for their exquisite menus but also for the volume and scale of events they host.

Below are several top picks where Event Planners can often find well-paying opportunities:

Mendota Heights Waterfront Restaurant

Nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River, this venue is known for its stunning waterfront views and flexible indoor / outdoor event spaces. It handles a wide array of events from weddings to corporate meetings, giving Event Planners multiple avenues to earn.

The Saint Paul Hotel

A historic landmark in downtown Saint Paul, this Hotel boasts elegant ballrooms and sophisticated dining options. The Hotel regularly hosts large conventions and upscale banquets, offering Event Planners lucrative projects with high-profile clients.

Meritage Restaurant + Wine Bar

Known for its impressive wine selection and locally sourced fare, Meritage is a popular spot for exclusive private events and intimate gatherings. Its reputation for high standards makes it attractive for Planners aiming for premium earnings.

J. Selby’s

This upscale steakhouse frequently hosts corporate dinners and special occasions. Event Planners benefit from its consistent demand for detailed event coordination, rewarding attention to detail and professionalism.

The Lexington

A cozy, classic American Restaurant with Southern influences, The Lexington is a sought-after venue for smaller-scale but sophisticated events. Event Planners here find opportunities to earn steady income through consistent event bookings.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Planner Earnings

The nature of the Restaurant or venue considerably influences the earning potential of Event Planners. High-end Restaurants and Hotels with luxurious event spaces typically offer higher pay due to the scale and complexity of their functions.

Casual dining or smaller, neighborhood venues might offer steadier but generally lower-paying event planning opportunities, often reflecting smaller guest counts and less elaborate setups.

• Upscale and luxury venues usually require advanced planning skills, certifications such as CMP (Certified Meeting Planner) and the ability to manage larger teams, which lead to better compensation.
• Venues located in central or historic Saint Paul tend to attract wealthier clients and larger events, which translates to higher budgets and Planner earnings.
• Restaurants specializing in niche cuisines or unique event styles might provide specialized planning gigs that pay well for knowledgeable professionals.

How To Find a High Paying Event Planner Job in Saint Paul

Networking and Industry Connections

Building relationships with venue Managers, Caterers and local business owners can introduce you to exclusive opportunities that may not be listed publicly.

Professional Certifications

Obtaining certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can significantly boost your credibility and open doors to higher-paying roles.

Tailored Resume and Portfolio

Highlight your experience organizing large events, budget management and client satisfaction. Include a portfolio showcasing successfully executed events to impress hiring Managers.

Applying Strategically

Focus on venues known for high volume and upscale events, and apply during hiring peaks such as right after the holiday season when event planning demand picks up.

Mastering the Interview

Prepare by researching the venue’s style, clientele and recent events. Demonstrate your organizational skills, problem-solving abilities and adaptability.

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

The future for Event Planners in Saint Paul looks promising, with projected job growth driven by increasing corporate events, weddings and local festivals. The city’s vibrant cultural scene and growing business districts fuel demand for skilled Event Planners.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, event planning employment nationally is expected to grow at an average rate over the next several years. Saint Paul’s increasing popularity as an event destination amplifies these positive prospects locally.

Some expected trends include:

• More hybrid and virtual event planning responsibilities, increasing the required skill set.
• Higher emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly event management practices.
• Continuing demand for Planners adept at managing luxury and multicultural events.

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

With an average hourly wage of $27, Event Planners typically earn around $56,000 annually if working full-time. This salary can comfortably cover typical living expenses in Saint Paul.

Here’s a brief overview of estimated monthly costs for a single adult in Saint Paul:

• 1-Bedroom Apartment (city center): $1,250
• Utilities (electricity, water, heating): $150
• Transportation (public transit or gas): $100–$150
• Groceries and dining: $350–$500

For Event Planners working in top-tier venues or taking on multiple contracts, income may rise substantially, enabling a comfortable lifestyle with savings potential.

The key to financial comfort typically lies in securing roles at well-established venues or gaining specialized expertise with event coordination complexity and client management skills.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Saint Paul Event Planner Jobs

To curate this list, we focused on venues that consistently offer competitive pay rates and strong benefits packages to Event Planners.

We prioritized:

• Reputation: Established Restaurants and Hotels with strong client bases and positive reviews.
• Location: Venues situated in prominent Saint Paul neighborhoods or with attractive event spaces that draw upscale clientele.
• Event Volume and Scale: Places known for hosting a variety of events including corporate and social gatherings, therefore offering steady work.

Additionally, we considered user feedback from our platform and industry insights to highlight places where Event Planners have consistently reported favorable working conditions and compensation.