Event Planner Resume Example

Event Planner

While great parties are relaxed and fun, the behind-the-scenes planning requires dedication and hard work. Event Planners are responsible for coordinating with vendors, caterers, and venues to build the perfect event. They then set-up the decorations and equipment and welcome the guests to ensure each and every party runs smoothly. 

We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of everything you need to know to rock your event planning resume. Soon you’ll be well on your way to planning the next celebration of the season!

How to Write a Summary for an Event Planner

1. Quantify your previous experience. How many people have attended your events? What was the biggest budget you managed? How many events have you planned? Numbers give recruiters a better idea of your talent, so quantify your experiences when possible.
2. Describe your greatest strength. Do you excel at managing vendor relationships? Do you always find the perfect venue? Do you consistently fall under budget? ‍
3. Mention which industries you’ve worked for. Have you planned weddings? Business conferences? College events? A variety of experiences in different industries shows that you are capable of meeting different clients’ needs and have a swath of vendor relationships.
   

Tip: Be specific about your experiences and use strong verbs. The following is a weak example, "Gave clients the perfect experience from planning the event to setting up the food, music, and tables" whereas this is stronger, "Oversaw client experiences from conception through post-event, managing on-site preparations, production, and event breakdown, ensuring consistent, high-level service throughout all phases."

How to List Your Work Experience as an Event Planner

1. Use reverse chronological format. List your most recent jobs first, as this shows managers how you’ve gained experience in the industry. 
2. Use action verbs related to Event Planning. Verbs are critical to demonstrating what you can do for the company. Review the following list for some powerful examples.

• Arranged
• Conducted 
• Coordinated
• Developed 
• Designed
• Managed
• Organized
• Planned 
• Prepared

 See our list of over 350 action verbs to find more.

Senior Level Work Experience as an Event Planner

• Drafted event proposals using PandaDoc software 
• Issued invoices and collected payments in a timely manner; created comprehensive and readable financial reports 
• Built and maintained a comprehensive database of industry contacts, vendors, and venues 
• Managed and oversaw events on the day of, including directing event set-up, communicating with staff, and organizing vendors‍‍

Junior Level Work Experience as an Event Planner‍

• Collaborated with the in-house marketing team to create promotional materials for 23 events, including celebrity birthdays and publication launches 
• Negotiated and managed vendor contracts 
• Coordinated event logistics and services, including technology and equipment needed to run the event, food, drinks, transportation, lodging, and more
• Planned event aspects, such as venue, seating, dining, and guest list

‍How to List Your Skills as an Event Planner

Event Planners have to create and manage relationships with caterers, vendors, clients and more -- all of which involves excellent communicative skills. Event Planners must also be savvy with logistics and able to quickly rebound from disruptions.

• ‍Time Management           
• Communication             
• Calm under pressure
• Collaboration            
• Adaptability                 
• Critical Thinking
• Caterer Management       
• Venue Selection               
• Scheduling

How to List Your Education as an Event Planner

Event Planners generally require a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management or a related major, such as marketing, communications, or business. Event planners gain experience through internships and planning college and volunteer events.  

Certifications are not required to be an event planner, but the following can boost your resume. 

• Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) 
• Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) 
• American Association of Certified Wedding Planners AACWP

Event Planner Career Overview

Job Outlook

The job outlook for Event Planners is predicted to grow 7% per year, which is considered faster than average. In 2018 there were 134,100 jobs available.

Average Salary 

Event Planners make $50,600 per year on average. However, salaries could be as high as $86,390 depending on which industry you work for. 

Top Paying Salaries by State

• $69,250 -- New York
• $68,590 -- New Jersey
• $67,510 -- District of Columbia‍

‍Search for Event Planner Jobs

• Indeed
• Linkedin
• Simplyhired