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Contract Event Planner Jobs in Ridgewood, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Relish Catering + Hospitality

Event Planner

Bronx, NY · On-site

$68K - $75K/yr

... contract specifications. · Attend various walk-throughs and site tours of event venues. · ... event planning, catering, and/or hospitality. · Demonstrated ability to use catering software ...

The TMC Group

Event Planner

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$90K - $110K/yr

Event Planner Location: New York City (4 days in-office) Salary: $90K-$110K + benefits Travel: ~30 ... Strong vendor management and contract negotiation skills * Experience managing budgets and ...

Puck

Event Coordinator (Contract)

New York, NY · On-site

$55 - $70/hr

This role will support the events team in planning, executing, and managing high-quality events ... Manage vendor relationships and contracts to ensure deliverables meet expectations and deadlines

Puck

Event Coordinator (Contract)

New York, NY · On-site

This role will support the events team in planning, executing, and managing high-quality events ... Manage vendor relationships and contracts to ensure deliverables meet expectations and deadlines

Leigh and Co.

Wedding Planner

New York, NY

$400/wk

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 ...

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All JobsContract Event Planner JobsContract Event Planner Jobs in Ridgewood, NJ

Contract Event Planner information

See Ridgewood, NJ salary details

$13

$30

$44

How much do contract event planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract event planner in Ridgewood, NJ is $30.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.33 and $35.77 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.
More about Contract Event Planner jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Event Planner jobs in Ridgewood, NJ? The most popular types of Event Planner jobs in Ridgewood, NJ are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Event Planner jobs in Ridgewood, NJ? For Contract Event Planner jobs in Ridgewood, NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Event Planner jobs in Ridgewood, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Event Planner jobs in Ridgewood, NJ are:
What cities near Ridgewood, NJ are hiring for Contract Event Planner jobs? Cities near Ridgewood, NJ with the most Contract Event Planner job openings:
Contract Event Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Event Planner job openings in Ridgewood, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 64% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,082 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Event Planner

Relish Catering + Hospitality

Bronx, NY • On-site

$68K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

The Event Planner (EP) is responsible for all aspects of sales and event planning, including prospecting, generating, and closing business for Off-Premise Catered Events. This position works closely with the operations and culinary teams.

Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

SALES + EVENT PLANNING

· Handling of inbound leads, custom proposal generation, menu + event design, and finances.

· Work with new and existing clients to create and execute flawless events.

· Work with and guide clients through all aspects of event creation, from concept to execution. Coordinate and collaborate with team members and outside vendors as needed to ensure each event is executed to meet the client’s expectations and in accordance with the contract specifications.

· Attend various walk-throughs and site tours of event venues.

· Leverage existing personal and professional clients and contacts’ “book of business” to advance sales and create new sales opportunities for the business.

· Seek new venue opportunities for preferred or exclusive relationships.

· Seek and create new catering and hospitality partnerships to grow sales.

EDUCATION + EXPERIENCE

· Bachelor of Science degree preferred.

· A minimum of three years of experience in event planning, catering, and/or hospitality.

· Demonstrated ability to use catering software systems + databases.

· Demonstrated experience working in a highly detailed food and beverage operation.

BASIC SKILLS REQUIRED

· Excellent working knowledge of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and similar programs.

· Solid reading, writing, and typing skills.

· Excellent phone + email etiquette.

· Outgoing personality, able to clearly communicate with clients on a daily basis.

· Subject to wet floors, temperature extremes, and excessive noise.

· Ability to work long days on your feet.

· Requires occasional lifting of up to 40 pounds in weight, 10 pounds frequently.

· Subject to background checks, depending on the various accounts.

EOE/AA/M/F/Vets/Disabled