Top Events and Hospitality Gig Jobs That Pay Well: How to Earn Big at Parties, Conferences, and Weddings

Events and hospitality gig jobs are booming again in 2025, creating exciting new ways to earn fast, flexible income at weddings, parties, and conferences. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or a flexible full-time income, working at events like weddings, corporate parties, music festivals, or trade shows can be both profitable and exciting. If you’re ready to cash in on parties and professional gatherings, here’s how to start gig work in 2025.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top gig jobs in events and hospitality, how much you can earn, what skills are needed, and tips to succeed in the industry. If you’re ready to cash in on parties and professional gatherings, this article will help you get started.

Why Events and Hospitality Gig Jobs Are a Smart Career Choice in 2025

The hospitality industry has always been people-centred. But in 2025, the demand for short-term event staff has skyrocketed thanks to:

• The return of in-person events post-pandemic

• The rise in destination weddings and global conferences

• The growth of event technology requires more support staff

• A massive gig economy boom, offering flexible, app-based hiring

Many businesses and private clients now prefer hiring gig workers for events instead of permanent staff. This gives you the freedom to work when and where you want — and make good money doing it.

Top Events and Hospitality Gig Jobs That Pay Well in 2025

Here are the highest-paying and most in-demand gigs you can get in the events and hospitality space:

1. Waitstaff – One of the Most Popular Events and Hospitality Gig Jobs

One of the most popular event gig jobs is serving food and drinks at weddings, galas, and private parties.

What you’ll do:

• Set up tables

• Serve meals and beverages

• Clear plates and help with cleanup

Pay range: $18–$30/hour, plus tips.

Best for: Friendly, detail-oriented people with strong customer service skills.

Pro Tip: Upscale venues and private events often offer the highest tips.

2. Event Setup Crew – Great Entry-Level Hospitality Gig Job

Not afraid to get your hands dirty? Setup and teardown jobs are crucial.

What you’ll do:

• Assemble the stages, chairs and lighting

• Unload equipment and décor

• Help vendors transport gear

Pay range: $17–$25/hour

Best for: Physically strong individuals comfortable lifting and moving gear.

3. Event Bartender – High-Tip Hospitality Gig Job

If you have a bartending license or experience, event gigs at open bars are gold.

What you’ll do:

• Mix and serve drinks

• Manage inventory

• Maintain a clean bar area

Pay range: $20–$40/hour, plus heavy tips

Best for: Outgoing, fast-paced workers who can handle pressure.

4. Event Greeter – Frontline Hospitality Gig Role

Perfect for introverts and extroverts alike, this role is all about first impressions.

What you’ll do:

• Welcome guests

• Check them in

• Provide badges and materials

Pay range: $18–$28/hour

Best for: Organised and polite workers with strong communication skills.

5. Wedding Gig Job – Assistant to Event Coordinator

A dream gig for anyone who loves weddings and is super organised.

What you’ll do:

• Assist the lead wedding planner

• Help with timelines and vendor coordination

• Guide guests and the bridal party

Pay range: $20–$35/hour

Best for: Detail-driven, people-focused workers.

6. A/V Assistant – A Skilled Event Gig Role

Tech-savvy gig workers can thrive here.

What you’ll do:

• Set up microphones, speakers, and projectors

• Troubleshoot issues during events

Pay range: $25–$50/hour

Best for: Workers with A/V experience or basic tech training.

7. Catering Gig Job – Delivery and Event Support Role

Catering companies often hire gig workers to help deliver and serve food.

What you’ll do:

• Transport meals and equipment

• Set up buffet lines or serve meals

Pay range: $18–$30/hour

Best for: Reliable people with access to a vehicle.

8. Festival Support Crew – Seasonal Event Gig Opportunity

Classy gigs, especially in winter seasons and hotel venues.

What you’ll do:

• Receive and return guests’ coats or cars

• Maintain tickets and secure storage

Pay range: $15–$25/hour, plus tips

9. Festival Support Crew

If you love music and being outdoors, this is for you.

What you’ll do:

• Ticket scanning

• Wristband checks

• Vendor support

• Crowd control

Pay range: $18–$30/hour

Where to Find the Best Events and Hospitality Gig Jobs Online

Here are the best platforms and strategies to land gigs in the events and hospitality industry:

• Gig apps: Shiftgig, Instawork, GigSmart, Qwick.

• Freelance platforms: Upwork (for virtual events), TaskRabbit

• Local agencies: Search “event staffing agency [your city]”

• Social media: Join Facebook groups for event workers

• Word of mouth: Once you’ve done a few events, ask for referrals

Top Skills Needed for Events and Hospitality Gig Jobs

You don’t need a degree, but a few key soft and hard skills will help you land better gigs and keep getting hired.

• Reliability: Show up early, ready to go.

• Communication: Listen well and speak clearly with clients and guests.

• Professional appearance: Dress appropriately for upscale events.

• Adaptability: Every event is different — stay flexible.

• Teamwork: You’ll often work with a crew and need to move quickly together.

How Much Can You Earn?

Let’s break it down:

Doing 3–4 gigs per week could bring in $500–$1,200+ weekly, depending on your city and skills.

Turn Your Events and Hospitality Gig Job into a Career

Many people start event gig jobs as a side hustle and turn them into careers. Here’s how:

• Build a network: Stay in touch with planners, caterers and coordinators.

• Get certified: Consider food handler permits from trusted providers like ServSafe to boost your qualifications and stand out to catering companies.

• Specialise: Become the go-to person for a specific task (e.g., wedding setup expert).

• Create a brand: Use social media to showcase your work and reviews.

Pro Tips from Events and Hospitality Gig Workers

“Bring backup clothes and snacks.”

You may spill something or go hours without a break. Stay prepared.

“Be early. Always.”

Event time is not flexible. Showing up late may get you blacklisted.

“Smile and stay calm.”

Even when guests or planners are stressed, your calm energy will help everyone.

Pros and Cons of Event & Hospitality Gig Jobs

Final Thoughts on Events and Hospitality Gig Opportunities in 2025

Gig jobs in events and hospitality offer one of the best ways to earn fast, flexible, and often high-paying income in 2025. Whether you’re serving drinks at weddings, scanning tickets at music festivals, or helping coordinate corporate galas, the opportunities are everywhere.

You don’t need a fancy degree — just a professional attitude, reliability, and a willingness to work hard. With the right gigs and strategy, you can build a side hustle or even a full career helping make events unforgettable.

So grab your black dress shirt or your earpiece headset, and step into a world of excitement, energy, and real earning potential.