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Contract Event Planning Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

When no group events are happening, this position will be working on administrative planning for ... Support post-contract event turnover by verifying executed contracts and SCS information ...

Donor Events Manager

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$58K - $65K/yr

Lead all aspects of event planning and execution, including concept development, timelines ... Manage event contracts, invoices, and payments while ensuring expenditures remain within approved ...

Donor Events Manager

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$58 - $65/hr

Lead all aspects of event planning and execution, including concept development, timelines ... Manage event contracts, invoices, and payments while ensuring expenditures remain within approved ...

New

Event Coordinator

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$32/hr

You will be marketing private events and venues--not planning or working the events themselves. This role is a contract through to the end of the year, 40 hours per week. Has the potential to convert ...

Donor Events Manager

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$58K - $65K/yr

Lead all aspects of event planning and execution, including concept development, timelines ... Manage event contracts, invoices, and payments while ensuring expenditures remain within approved ...

... negotiation, contract management, and event permitting - Proficiency in Microsoft Office, event planning platforms, or project management tools Position Requirement(s): License/Certification ...

Manager, Events

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$65 - $110/hr

Manages all event logistics, negotiate contracts (with assistance from legal department) and ... Proposes and implements new ideas to improve the event planning and implementation process.

Special Event Sales Intern

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

... planning while supporting the Special Events Sales team. This internship offers exposure to the ... contracts, presentations, and other sales materials. - Assist with venue tours, client site visits ...

... manage contracts for venues, speakers and third-party vendors, as well as end-to-end logistical ... Manage budgets for each event, providing accurate financial information throughout the planning ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Event Planning information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$27

$39

How much do contract event planning jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract event planning in Tennessee is $27.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $32.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is contract event planning?

Contract event planning involves organizing and coordinating events on a freelance or contractual basis, rather than as a full-time employee of a company. Contract event planners are hired for specific events, such as weddings, conferences, or corporate functions, and are responsible for managing logistics, vendors, budgets, and timelines. They often work independently or as part of an agency, providing flexible services tailored to each client's needs. This role requires excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills to ensure successful event execution.

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

To thrive as a Contract Event Planner, you need strong project management, organizational abilities, and experience in logistics, often supported by a background in hospitality or event management. Familiarity with event management software (like Cvent or Eventbrite), budgeting tools, and vendor management systems is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, creativity, and problem-solving aptitude help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure seamless event execution, client satisfaction, and the ability to handle unexpected challenges efficiently.

What are common challenges contract event planners face when managing multiple clients simultaneously?

Contract event planners often juggle multiple clients and events at once, which can present challenges in prioritizing tasks, managing deadlines, and maintaining clear communication. Staying organized is critical, as each client may have unique requirements, budgets, and timelines. Effective time management and the ability to quickly adapt to last-minute changes are essential skills. Building strong relationships with vendors and leveraging project management tools can help streamline processes and ensure all events run smoothly.

What is the difference between Contract Event Planning vs Event Coordinator?

AspectContract Event PlanningEvent Coordinator
CredentialsExperience in event management, certifications like CMP or CSEP often preferredSimilar credentials, often with event planning or hospitality background
Work EnvironmentTypically project-based, working with multiple clients on different eventsUsually employed by a specific organization or venue, coordinating internal events
Employer & Industry UsageFreelance or contracted roles across various industriesHotels, corporations, non-profits, and event venues
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding freelance or temporary event planning rolesManaging ongoing or internal events within an organization

Contract Event Planning involves managing events on a temporary, project basis, often as a freelancer or contractor, focusing on client-specific needs. Event Coordinators typically work within organizations or venues, overseeing internal event execution. Both roles require similar skills and credentials but differ mainly in employment structure and scope.

How to become a contract event planner?

To become a contract event planner, gain experience in event coordination through internships or entry-level roles, develop strong organizational and communication skills, and familiarize yourself with event management tools. Building a portfolio of successful events and obtaining certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) can enhance credibility and job prospects in contract-based roles.

Is there a demand for contract event planners?

Contract event planning is a growing field driven by the need for specialized skills in organizing corporate, social, and virtual events. Demand varies by industry and location, but professionals with strong organizational, communication, and project management skills are often sought after for short-term and freelance projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Event Planning jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Event Planning jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Contract Event Planning jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Contract Event Planning job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Event Planning job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,484 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Event Coordinator

SOUTHALL LLC

Franklin, TN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description:

Southall is a premier destination bringing nature, produce and people together in a powerful and unique way. 


The Event Coordinator is responsible for overseeing our on-site event logistics, being a liaison between client expectations, operational connection and vendor management. This person will ensure that all vendors load in and strike from the proper location, adhere to the property standards and greet our clients at pivotal times throughout the event creation. Also, oversees protection of our facility and assets. When no group events are happening, this position will be working on administrative planning for internal events and proactive vendor communications.


Responsibilities 

  • Lead to delivery: sell and service internal groups 10-40 people, 90 – 120 days out
  • Assist the Catering and Events team for all items related to on-site group needs and vendor activity for special events during conferences and programs
  • Act as client-facing liaison and on-site coordinator to ensure seamless execution of event logistics, supporting the Event Manager
  • Manage daily property-wide communications, including preparing and distributing the daily change log to ensure all departments are informed of important updates
  • Develop, finalize, and maintain accurate Group Resumes in Infor SCS, ensuring all event details, BEOs, operational notes, and supporting documentation are complete and current, with timely distribution to operational departments and escalation of any unresolved or high-impact concerns to Event and operational leadership
  • Manage assigned group room blocks from initial turnover through departure
  • Load and maintain room blocks accurately in the PMS
  • Monitor pickup, attrition, cancellations, no-shows, and rooming-list deadlines
  • Ensure room types, rates, dates, and inventory align with the signed contract
  • Identify potential overbooking or inventory concerns early and communicate them to Sales and Revenue Management
  • Manage room block adjustments and release dates according to contract terms
  • Track complimentary rooms, upgrades, suites, and VIP accommodations
  • Receive, organize, and process group rooming lists
  • Enter reservations accurately and efficiently
  • Review reservations for rate, dates, room type, names, billing instructions, and special requests
  • Maintain accurate reservation notes and VIP/group preferences
  • Manage reservation changes, cancellations, extensions, and early departures
  • Support post-contract event turnover by verifying executed contracts and SCS information, establishing group files and guest reservations, maintaining shared event calendars and key deadlines, and ensuring all departmental fields are complete and accurate for seamless execution and reporting
  • Coordinate special accommodations for VIPs, executives, speakers, wedding parties, and other key guests
  • Ensure successful vendor experience, remaining mindful of asset protection initiatives. This includes but not limited to: Initial vendor meet & greet, pre/post event space walkthrough and hold vendor accountable for any damages or sub-standard performances 
  • Perform administrative duties to support vendor management such as reporting, communications with manager and vendors, and property access for vendors
  • Daily creation of Banquet Event Orders and diagram packets for Vendors when on property
  • Maintain and organize Banquet Event Orders in addition to attending BEO Meeting as needed
  • Prepare Set Up Program Agenda for pre-shift meetings, as required
  • Pre-check and audit the set-up and banquet teams in accordance to the client and internal event order details to ensure an excellent experience for guests and Southall reputation
  • Close and reset after each program: return operational materials, document notable operational challenges, and prepare for upcoming group arrivals
  • Support post-departure follow-up, including the thank-you communication and the guest satisfaction survey
  • Other duties as assigned 

Requirements:
  • Experience as a departmental trainer or supervisor preferred. 
  • Ability to walk for long periods of distance and time, resulting in an average of 17,000 to 25,000 steps per shift required.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Excellent customer service and relationship making skills.
  • Ability to have critical conversations regarding process and standard following.
  • Experience using or ability to learn Microsoft Outlook and Excel preferred.
  • High School diploma or GED

Our Benefits

  • Competitive compensation package
  • Medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, company-provided life insurance
  • Generous paid time off accruals
  • 9 paid holidays annually
  • Weekly pay
  • 401k and company match
  • Education reimbursement
  • Best-in-class Employee Assistance Program
  • Free weekly outdoor activities and wellness classes
  • 30% internal discounts
  • Fresh and free daily meal
  • Bountiful internal growth opportunities

Our Team


Assembled intentionally with dynamic expertise, the Southall team is offered the unique opportunity to learn humbly with, and from, each other. We invest in a growth mindset and take it upon ourselves to strengthen our knowledge and grit daily. We honor the cycles of nature, get our hands dirty and taste the earth’s bounty in an effort to connect with the land.


We plan with purpose, seeing past the present day and seeking to consider the planet with each step. We embrace a blend of ancient techniques and modern technologies in our practice of sustainability. We celebrate ingenuity and resourcefulness and approach our roles through the eyes of an entrepreneur, looking beyond our respective corners to the big picture.


Acting with intention, we approach each day with gratitude for the opportunity to serve our guests and each other. A humble holder of our Michelin Key, our team strives to provide a level of luxury that feels effortless and sincere, infusing wellness at every turn. The Southall team cares for our visitors with the same caliber of kindness and respect as we care for the humans that work alongside us.


Southall Farm and Inn is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. Southall provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender, national origin, status as a protected veteran, disability or any other classification protected by law. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs.