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Contract Event Planner Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

... contract management and logistics experience * Can deliver on tight deadlines, on budget * Is ... Minimum 5 years of event planning experience * Bachelor's degree required. * Excellent ...

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Leading the planning and execution of Firmwide event logistics with meticulous attention to detail ... Negotiating and managing vendor, venue, and technology contracts, identifying cost-saving ...

Leading the planning and execution of Firmwide event logistics with meticulous attention to detail ... Negotiating and managing vendor, venue, and technology contracts, identifying cost-saving ...

Leading the planning and execution of Firmwide event logistics with meticulous attention to detail ... Negotiating and managing vendor, venue, and technology contracts, identifying cost-saving ...

Leigh & Co. Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company - we are looking for planners. We ... This position is a contract role and you can pick your own schedule! Training is provided. Pay is ...

Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company based throughout the entire United States - we ... This position is a contract role and you can pick your own schedule! Training is provided. Pay is ...

Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company based throughout the entire United States - we ... This position is a contract role and you can pick your own schedule! Training is provided. Pay is ...

Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company based throughout the entire United States - we ... This position is a contract role and you can pick your own schedule! Training is provided. Pay is ...

... like event budget, registration, attendee management, food and beverage planning, A/V and ... contract payments and ensures compliance with University procurement. • As a member of the ...

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Contract Event Planner information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$29

$42

How much do contract event planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract event planner in Minnesota is $29.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $34.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a contract event planner do?

Contract event planners are independent contractors hired to organize and coordinate all the aspects of an event. In this role, you discuss the needs and expectations of your client concerning the size and other details of the event. If the venue has not been chosen, your first responsibility is to help your client find a location to hold the event. Then you research and book various vendors that can provide the look and feel that your client wants, such as caterers, florists, and DJs or live bands. Open communication with your client throughout the planning process is essential to ensure that the details are approved and on budget. Many contract event planners are also expected to attend the event and assist with any issues that arise on that day.

How does a contract event planner typically coordinate with vendors and clients during the planning process?

As a contract event planner, you will act as the main point of contact between clients and various vendors such as caterers, venues, and audiovisual teams. This involves regular communication to clarify client expectations, negotiate contracts, and ensure timelines are met. You'll often use project management tools and attend site visits to oversee progress and troubleshoot any issues. Strong organizational skills and proactive communication are essential for ensuring all parties are aligned and that the event runs smoothly.

What is the difference between Contract Event Planner vs Freelance Event Coordinator?

AspectContract Event PlannerFreelance Event Coordinator
CredentialsEvent planning certifications, relevant experienceEvent planning experience, certifications optional
Work EnvironmentTypically hired for specific projects, often through agencies or companiesSelf-employed, manages multiple clients independently
Employer/Industry UsageUsed by event planning firms, corporations, and agenciesCommon among independent professionals and small businesses
Search/Comparison IntentLooking for contractual event planning rolesSeeking freelance event coordination opportunities

The main difference is that Contract Event Planners are usually hired through agencies or companies for specific projects, often requiring formal certifications. Freelance Event Coordinators operate independently, managing multiple clients without employer oversight. Both roles involve event organization, but their work arrangements and employment structures differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract event planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Event Planner, you need expertise in project management, budgeting, logistics, and strong knowledge of the events industry, often supported by a degree in hospitality or a related field. Familiarity with event management software (such as Cvent or Eventbrite), vendor management platforms, and, in some cases, certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation is valuable. Exceptional organizational skills, creativity, negotiation abilities, and effective communication help you stand out by ensuring seamless event execution and client satisfaction. These competencies are crucial for managing complex events, meeting client expectations, and delivering memorable experiences within deadlines and budgets.

What is a contract event planner?

Contract event planners are professionals who are hired on a temporary or project basis to organize and manage events such as conferences, weddings, corporate meetings, or parties. Unlike full-time staff, they typically work independently or through an agency and handle all aspects of event planning, including budgeting, vendor coordination, logistics, and on-site management. Their role is to ensure events run smoothly and meet the client's objectives, drawing on their expertise and network of contacts. Contract event planners offer flexibility and specialized skills, making them a popular choice for clients with occasional or unique event needs.
What are the most commonly searched types of Event Planner jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Event Planner jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Event Planner jobs in Minnesota? For Contract Event Planner jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Event Planner jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Event Planner jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Contract Event Planner jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Contract Event Planner job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Event Planner job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,031 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Assistant Event Planner

D'Amico Hospitality

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

At D’Amico Hospitality, excellence isn’t a slogan — it’s the standard.

We are a nationally recognized, premium hospitality company and the largest event and catering organization in the Twin Cities, known for executing complex, high-profile events with precision, creativity, and consistency. From corporate events and nonprofit galas to weddings and marquee celebrations, our work reflects an unwavering commitment to quality, detail, and execution at scale.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

Our passion for excellence isn’t just a tagline — it’s been consistently recognized through industry and regional awards, including:

  • Best Catering Company — Twin Cities Business (2017, 2018, 2020–2022, 2025)
  • Best Caterer for a Large Wedding — Minnesota Bride Magazine (2019–2025)
  • Star Awards Winner — International Live Events Association (2019–2025)
  • CATIE Awards Winner – Best Action Station (2024) and Best Catered Event (2025)

What You’ll Do

The Assistant Event Planner is responsible for enhancing the effectiveness of the Catering Sales Department by providing customer service and planning support to Event Planners. This position involves collaborating closely with Event Planners, clients, vendors, and various departments within the company to streamline the sales of all D’Amico Hospitality products, services, and catering venues. The Assistant Event Planner must be a highly proactive and engaged professional with exceptional written and verbal communication abilities. As a point of contact for clients, this role represents the Company and must embody a demeanor that enhances the Company’s reputation and fosters client relations.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Handle incoming calls and emails from prospective and current clients as assigned, working under the guidance of assigned Event Planner(s).
  • Assist with updating and maintaining all relevant paperwork, including contracts, event orders, and floor plans.
  • Collaborate with vendors, catering staff, and internal departments to ensure all event details—such as timing, setup, and special requests—are seamlessly planned, documented, and executed.
  • Create and source specialty signage, rental equipment, wares, and other event-day collateral as needed.
  • Attend production meetings, sales meetings, networking events, and client meetings as requested.
  • Serve as backup for sales staff when Event Planners are unavailable, handling tours, meetings, and paperwork updates as directed.
  • Provide backup support for the front desk, sales administrative assistant, and general office facility functions as needed.
  • Provide on-site support for events as required.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned in a prompt, courteous, and professional manner.

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to speak clearly and listen attentively to all staff and clients by phone and in person; most of whom speak English.
  • Must be able to read and write to facilitate the communication process.
  • Must have manual finger dexterity and be computer literate.
  • Must be able to remain stationary for long periods of time, up to at least eight hours in length.
  • Must be able to bend, lift, and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds on an occasional basis.
  • Must be able to drive to facility tours, off-premise event site visits, and attend meetings (networking events, sales meetings, etc.) at various locations.
  • Must have the ability to consistently arrive at work for all scheduled shifts as assigned.
  • Must demonstrate computer literacy, including proficiency in managing email communications and using software such as Excel for data management and analysis.

Compensation and benefits packages including 401k savings plan, Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance*, FSA and HSA options, employee discounts, and paid time off.

*Health insurance benefits may be subject to eligibility requirements.

To Apply: If you are interested in this position and believe you have the qualifications and passion to excel as an Assistant Event Planner, please submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant supporting documents.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps in the selection process. We appreciate your interest in joining our team at D'Amico Hospitality.