What Restaurants Do Event Planners Make the Most Money at in Virginia Beach, VA?

The average hourly wage for Event Planners in Virginia Beach is approximately $28 per hour. However, earnings for Event Planners can vary considerably depending on the venue, event size and specific responsibilities they undertake.

If you’re curious about which restaurants offer the best pay for Event Planners in Virginia Beach, this article will highlight some top-paying venues in the area. We’ll also explore how factors such as restaurant type, experience and certifications influence income, along with ways to land a well-paying Event Planner job in Virginia Beach.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Planners in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach boasts a variety of venues ranging from beachfront restaurants to upscale dining rooms, all creating different opportunities for Event Planners who manage memorable occasions. These establishments often stand out because of their picturesque settings, event capacity and reputation for hosting high-profile gatherings.

Below are some of the top-paying restaurants for Event Planners in Virginia Beach:

1. Waterman’s Surfside Grille

Known for its breathtaking oceanfront views and fresh seafood, Waterman’s Surfside Grille is a popular spot for beach weddings and corporate events alike. Its busy event calendar offers Event Planners substantial opportunities for steady, well-compensated work.

2. Chartreuse Bistro

Chartreuse Bistro is celebrated for its elegant farm-to-table menu and charming ambiance. Event Planners here benefit from managing a venue that emphasizes customized experiences, attracting clients willing to invest in upscale private events.

3. Terrapin Restaurant

This contemporary American eatery is favored for its sleek atmosphere and access to waterfront patios. It’s a hotspot for social events and celebrations, providing Event Planners with higher pay associated with organizing complex and stylish affairs.

4. The Atlantic on Pacific

The Atlantic on Pacific combines coastal flair with classic Virginia charm. Known for hosting sizeable groups and special occasions, it offers Event Planners opportunities to oversee large-scale events that translate into attractive compensation packages.

5. The Founders Inn & Spa

While technically a hotel and spa, The Founders Inn includes multiple restaurants and event spaces, making it a prime employment spot for Event Planners focused on weddings and conferences. This venue’s diverse offerings often lead to lucrative, multi-event planning roles.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Planner Earnings in Virginia Beach

The restaurant’s concept and event hosting capability directly influence the earning potential of Event Planners. More upscale, full-service venues tend to offer higher base pay and larger bonuses linked to successful, high-budget events.

On the other hand, casual or quick-service restaurants may offer fewer opportunities for event planning or smaller-scale functions, resulting in lower overall compensation for planners.

Other factors impacting earnings include:

• Event Size and Complexity: Larger, multi-day events or those requiring elaborate coordination often pay more.
• Location: Venues close to Virginia Beach’s tourist hubs or beachfront attract affluent clients with more generous event budgets.
• Certifications and Experience: Certified Event Planners or those with proven experience commanding higher salaries.
• Time of Year: Peak seasons such as summer and holidays can provide increased hourly rates or bonuses.

How To Find a High Paying Event Planner Job in Virginia Beach

Research Local Venues Actively Hiring

Monitor restaurants and event spaces known for large or luxury gatherings. Targeting venues with active hiring increases chances of landing roles with better pay.

Gain and Showcase Relevant Certifications

Credentials such as the CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) or CSEP (Certified Special Events Professional) set you apart and justify higher salary requests.

Network within the Local Hospitality Community

Attend Virginia Beach industry mixers, engage with hospitality groups or connect with hiring managers on LinkedIn for insider opportunities.

Prepare a Tailored Resume and Cover Letter

Highlight Event Planning experience, venue types and success stories relevant to Virginia Beach clients and restaurant settings.

Practice Interview Scenarios

Be ready to discuss how you would handle specific event challenges, budgeting, vendor relations and guest satisfaction concerns.

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

The demand for skilled Event Planners in Virginia Beach is expected to remain steady to growing in the coming years due to vibrant tourism, increased corporate events and a rising local population.

According to regional economic forecasts, venues in Virginia Beach are investing in enhancing their event spaces and services to attract weddings and conferences. This drives a positive outlook for Event Planner employment opportunities.

Important trends influencing this outlook include:

• Continued growth in wedding and social event bookings at beachfront and upscale restaurants.
• Corporate event expansion as businesses in the metro area increase in size and invest in employee and client engagement.
• Adoption of hybrid and virtual event components requiring tech-savvy Event Coordinators.

Overall, Event Planners with strong organizational skills and adaptability will find Virginia Beach to be a promising market.

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

Event Planners in Virginia Beach typically earn between $50,000 and $60,000 annually based on average hourly wages and bonuses. This income provides a comfortable foundation in an area where living costs are relatively moderate.

Here’s a brief overview of typical monthly expenses for a single adult in Virginia Beach:

• 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Center): around $1,200
• Utilities (electricity, gas, water): approximately $150
• Transportation (car or public transit): $100–$150
• Groceries and Household Supplies: around $300

Given these figures, earning a solid Event Planner salary in Virginia Beach can support a comfortable lifestyle including housing, dining and entertainment. With steady work, planning professionals can also save or invest toward future goals.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Virginia Beach Event Planner Jobs

We selected restaurants and venues based on their reputation for hosting well-attended events, consistent hiring of Event Planners and reported compensation packages.

Additionally, we evaluated:

• Location: Venues situated near Virginia Beach’s primary event and tourist areas.
• Benefits: Employers offering health insurance, paid time off and professional development opportunities.
• Employer Reviews: Feedback from current and former Event Planners regarding workplace culture and management.
• Event Scale: Restaurants and venues regularly coordinating medium to large-scale events.

These factors collectively identify worthwhile opportunities for Event Planners looking to maximize their earnings and career growth in Virginia Beach.