Senior Event Planner & Event Designer

Z Event Company | New Orleans, LA

About Z Event Company

Z Event Company is an award-winning luxury event planning, design, and production firm based in New Orleans. For more than 35 years, we have created exceptional weddings, corporate events, nonprofit galas, social celebrations, destination events, and experiential activations throughout the Gulf South and beyond.

Our reputation is built on creativity, attention to detail, exceptional client service, and flawless execution. We are looking for an experienced planner and designer who shares our passion for creating unforgettable experiences.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly organized, creative, and experienced Senior Event Planner & Event Designer to join our growing team.

This position manages events from concept through execution, including client meetings, event design, budgeting, vendor management, production timelines, and onsite leadership. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable developing beautiful event concepts and overseeing the many details required to bring those concepts to life.

This role works closely with the President and leadership team and offers the opportunity to lead high-profile events while contributing to the continued growth of Z Event Company.

ResponsibilitiesEvent Planning

Manage multiple events simultaneously from initial consultation through event completion
Develop detailed event timelines, production schedules, and planning documents
Coordinate all event logistics, including venues, transportation, hotels, rentals, entertainment, catering, décor, and specialty vendors
Conduct venue walkthroughs and client meetings
Prepare proposals, budgets, and client presentations
Oversee event setup, production, and breakdown

Event Design

Create cohesive event concepts and design presentations
Develop color palettes, décor plans, floral inspiration, linen selections, lighting concepts, and floor plans
Collaborate with clients to bring their vision to life while maintaining budget goals
Source creative design elements and specialty vendors
Stay current with luxury event and wedding trends

Client Experience

Build trusted relationships with clients throughout the planning process
Provide proactive communication and exceptional customer service
Anticipate challenges and resolve issues professionally
Deliver a high-touch luxury planning experience

Vendor & Production Management

Negotiate with vendors and manage contracts
Build and maintain preferred vendor relationships
Coordinate production schedules and onsite teams
Monitor event budgets and protect company profitability

Leadership

Take ownership of assigned events with minimal supervision
Mentor junior planners and support team collaboration
Contribute ideas to improve company systems and planning processes
Represent Z Event Company professionally in all client and vendor interactions

Qualifications

Minimum of 5 years of professional event planning experience
Experience planning luxury weddings, corporate events, or nonprofit galas
Strong event design and styling skills
Excellent organizational and time-management abilities
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
Strong budgeting and negotiation skills
Ability to remain calm and solutions-oriented under pressure
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace; experience with Canva, Trello, or similar planning software is a plus
Willingness to work evenings and weekends as required by event schedules

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with destination events
Existing relationships with regional event vendors
Knowledge of New Orleans venues and hospitality industry
Experience creating design decks and client presentations
Background in hospitality, interior design, floral design, or luxury events

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is someone who:

Thinks several steps ahead
Takes ownership without waiting to be asked
Has impeccable attention to detail
Is creative while remaining highly organized
Communicates with confidence and professionalism
Thrives in a collaborative team environment
Loves creating memorable experiences for clients

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience
Performance bonus opportunities
Health insurance contribution
401(k) with company match
Paid time off
Professional development opportunities
Opportunity to work on some of the region's premier weddings, galas, corporate events, and destination celebrations

If you're passionate about luxury events and enjoy bringing extraordinary celebrations to life, we'd love to hear from you.

Pay: From $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching
Health insurance
Paid time off

Education:

Bachelor's (Preferred)

Work Location: In person