Want an exciting career? Choose event planning

Magic happens when people get together, whether it's for a community festival, sports event, summer camp or a corporate retreat. But they wouldn’t be possible without the behind-the-scenes expertise of professionals in event and recreation management. 

Yes, if you’re creative, organized, love people and want no two days to be the same, this field is for you. 

What is event and recreation management?

Event and recreation management deals with organizing and overseeing activities designed for groups of people. These range from private celebrations like weddings to large-scale public events, such as concerts or Bowl Games. It also includes recreational programming, like creating and managing community-based leisure activities, fitness classes or summer camps.

At its core, this field revolves around creating enjoyable, engaging experiences. The kind of things social media loves. Professionals juggle budgets and client demands to deliver events that audiences will remember.

Who should choose event planning?

Success in event management often comes down to a blend of creativity, organization and people skills. People in this field are problem-solvers, capable of thinking on their feet and adapting to unexpected challenges.

Collaborating with teams of vendors and clients is a big part of the job. An eye for detail and managing your time makes sure plans go smoothly. A passion for creating great experiences and an interest in serving diverse communities are key traits in this fast-paced profession.

Careers in event planning

Event and recreation management covers a broad range of careers. Here’s an overview of some of these positions:

Event planner: Event planners coordinate all the details for weddings and conferences. You select the venues, manage the guest lists and work with the clients and vendors.

Recreation coordinator: Recreation coordinators run programs that promote wellness, learning and community-related events. You might organize workshops, fitness activities or seasonal celebrations. You’ll often work with nonprofits or public organizations.

Venue manager: Venue managers oversee the daily operations of convention centers, stadiums or community buildings. You make sure spaces are in order, bookings are managed and safety regulations are met.

Corporate event manager: Corporate event managers specialize in professional gatherings. You’re in charge of product launches, conferences or team-building retreats. You’ll balance business goals with fun activities for employees and clients.

Sports and recreation manager: This role involves overseeing sports programs, leagues, teams or facilities. You’ll make sure everything runs smoothly, from youth sports to professional tournaments.

Why choose event and recreation management?

• Variety: If you like excitement, you’ll find it here. No two days are alike. Every project has new challenges and new ideas to explore.
• Creative Expression: Imagine taking your ideas and turning them into an entire themed event. You can see your vision to come to life.
• Relationship Building: From vendors to clients and fellow creatives, you’ll meet and form connections that can lead to new opportunities.
• Impact: Whether it’s lifting community spirit or ensuring a company’s success, your work will leave a lasting impression.
• Flexibility: Not a fan of the 8 to 5 office career? Many event planning roles will take you from indoor to outdoor venues. Once you’re established, you’ll be able to pick and choose your jobs.

The importance of a college education in event and recreation management

A college education provides a strong foundation in event and recreation management. While hands-on experience is invaluable, formal education gives you essential project management skills and critical thinking abilities. 

Coursework in areas such as business administration, marketing, financial management and human resources prepares you to handle complex event planning. Programs often include hands-on learning opportunities like internships or co-op placements, letting you build skills and professional networks before starting your career. 

A college degree also builds leadership qualities, effective communication and problem-solving abilities. All of these are important for success in managing teams and creating memorable experiences. A degree can also open doors to upper-level positions and give you a competitive edge in the job market.

How much does an event planner make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the amount you earn as a meeting, convention and event planner varies by the industry you are working in. Overall, the mean annual wage is $62,280 as of May 2023.

The mean annual salaries for event planners who specialize in certain industries are:

• Computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing: $128,350
• Aerospace product and parts manufacturing: $95,220
• Promoters of performing arts, sports and similar events: $57, 970
• Business, professional, labor, political and similar organizations: $66,620
• Promoters of performing arts, sports and similar events: $57, 970
• Museums, Historical Sites, and similar institutions: $50,480

What about a wedding planner? It depends on the market. Usually, the larger the city, the higher the fees. According to the Indeed website:

In Michigan, the average pay per hour is $22.74, ranging from a low of $13.88 to a high of $37.24 per hour. In New York City, the average pay per hour is $37.31, ranging from a low of $23.00 to a high of $60.54 per hour.

Of course, your portfolio of clients, years of experience and the budget of your client will play a big part in how much you'll get paid.

Tips for becoming an event planner

Gain experience early: Volunteer at local events or shadow experienced professionals to learn firsthand how events and programs are run.

Build a portfolio: Collect photos, reviews and organizational details to document your work and show your skills to potential employers or clients.

Network actively: Attend industry meetups or conferences to connect with seasoned professionals who can guide you or recommend opportunities.

Invest in continuous learning: Stay updated on trends and industry standards. Workshops, certifications or webinars can deepen your expertise.

Develop soft skills: Build your problem-solving abilities by taking on roles that involve multitasking, customer service or leadership responsibilities.

Let hands-on learning build your portfolio and network

At Central Michigan University, our event and recreation management major is filled with hands-on experiences. This includes a 30-week internship that puts you right in the thick of real-world event management. 

You can even work at Walt Disney World as part of our partnership with the Disney College Program. CMU has been sending students to the Magic Kingdom since the program began in 1981. You can learn from one of the world’s best event management teams.

Our program is also accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and related Professionals (COAPRT), one of only 63 U.S. programs receiving this accreditation.

You’ll graduate career-ready with not only a respected degree but also a portfolio of actual work experience in event management.