How Much Do Event Planners Make a Year UK? Insights on Salaries and Career Prospects
If you’re considering a career as an event planner in the UK, you might be curious about the earning potential in this dynamic field. The average salary for an event planner in the UK is around £29,153 per year, though this can vary based on location and experience.
Event planning can be both rewarding and challenging, offering opportunities to work on diverse projects, from weddings to corporate events.
As you learn more about this profession, you’ll discover how factors like skills, employer, and even city impact your salary.
In this article, we’ll explore how much event planners make, what influences their earnings, and how you can maximize your salary in this exciting industry.
Event Planning in the UK: An Overview

If you’re thinking about a career in event planning, you’re entering a vibrant field. Event planners in the UK manage a variety of events, from weddings to corporate gatherings.
In this role, you will handle details like venue selection, catering, and logistics. Strong organizational skills are key. The industry often intersects with hospitality management, which means being familiar with food and service art.
Salary Insights
Here’s a quick look at what you might earn:
- Entry-Level: £18,000 – £22,000 yearly
- Average Salary: About £25,602
- Experienced Planners: Up to £43,000 in high-demand areas like London
For freelancers, earnings can be even higher. Many self-employed event planners make an average of £36,420, with potential for additional cash.
Job Opportunities
You can find roles in various sectors, including:
- Corporate events
- Weddings and parties
- Non-profits and community events
Knowing your niche can help you find the right opportunities. With the right skills in event management, you can succeed and grow in this exciting career.
Understanding Event Planner Salaries

Event planner salaries vary based on several factors. By knowing these factors, you can better understand what you might expect as you pursue a career in this field.
Factors Influencing Event Planner Pay
Your earnings as an event planner can depend on many key factors. These include your experience, location, and the type of events you manage.
- Experience Level: Entry-level planners may start on lower salaries, around £21,000 to £30,000. As you gain experience, the pay can rise significantly.
- Event Type: Specializing in high-demand areas, such as weddings or corporate events, can lead to higher fees. Wedding planners often charge premium rates because of the planning complexity.
- Location: Working in bigger cities like London usually means higher pay due to increased living costs and demand for planners.
Understanding these factors helps you gauge your potential earnings in this industry.
Average Salary Insights
In the UK, the average salary for an event planner is around £30,000 to £45,000, depending on their experience and niche. For specific roles:
- Graduate Events Planner: Starting salaries typically range from £21,000 to £30,000. These planners often assist more experienced colleagues.
- Senior Events Planner: Experienced planners can earn between £45,000 and £60,000. Their reputation, client base, and experience contribute to higher pay.
- Conference and Events Planner: This role can have a varied income, influenced by the number and scale of events managed.
These insights can set realistic expectations for your career as an event planner.
Comparing Event Planner Roles
Different roles within event planning can lead to distinct pay scales. Here’s a brief overview of various positions:
- Corporate Event Planner: Focuses on business-related events and may earn higher salaries because of the budgets involved.
- Client Events Planner: Works with individual clients and can charge based on custom requests, leading to variable earnings.
- Wedding Planner: These planners often charge a flat fee or a percentage based on total wedding costs, which can lead to significant earnings, especially for high-end services.
Knowing these roles helps you understand the different salary potentials in event planning.
Qualifications and Professional Development
When pursuing a career as an event planner, having the right qualifications and staying updated through professional development are key. These aspects can significantly enhance your skills and boost your earning potential.
Educational Pathways
To start your journey in event planning, consider a bachelor’s degree in event management. This degree provides a solid foundation in planning, budgeting, and marketing events. Some programs even include hands-on experience through internships, which can be very beneficial.
Many universities offer specialized courses that teach you about corporate events, weddings, or festivals. These courses help you to focus on areas that interest you most.
If you already have a degree in a related field, such as marketing or hospitality, you can still succeed in event planning. Additional workshops and short courses can give you the necessary skills without the need for a full degree.
Certification Importance
Getting certified can really help you stand out in the competitive event planning industry. Certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) are highly respected. They show potential clients that you are knowledgeable and dedicated to your profession.
These certifications often require you to pass an exam and demonstrate your experience in event planning. They also require continuing education credits to keep your certification up to date. This means you will always be learning and growing in your role.
Investing in these certifications can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries. It’s all about showcasing your commitment and expertise to excel in your career.
Career Growth and Opportunities
As an event planner, your career can grow significantly with the right skills and experience. You might start in entry-level positions and work your way up. There are various paths, especially if you focus on niches like wedding planning or advance to senior roles.
Starting as a Wedding Planner
Beginning your career as a wedding planner can be exciting and rewarding. You will be involved in various tasks such as organizing timelines, coordinating vendors, and managing budgets. This role allows you to build a strong portfolio while gaining firsthand experience.
You can earn around £22,605 as you start. Many wedding planners gain skills in communication and negotiation, which are crucial for further progression. Additionally, creating connections with vendors and clients can lead to referrals, helping you grow your business.
Progression to Senior Roles
Moving up to a senior events planner position opens many opportunities. In this role, you’ll have more responsibilities, and you’ll often manage bigger projects and teams. Depending on your experience and the size of the events, your salary can rise to about £38,166 or more.
In senior roles, you’ll focus on strategic planning and may even train junior team members. You’ll also need to collaborate with other event professionals, so networking becomes essential. This growth can lead to becoming an events director or starting your own event planning company, further expanding your career options.