The Wedding Sales & Events Manager is responsible for generating wedding and private event business, guiding wedding clients through the planning process from initial inquiry to the final farewell, and ensuring every event is executed with exceptional hospitality and attention to detail.
This role serves as the primary planner for all weddings and rehearsal dinners while also managing a variety of private events hosted at The Backstage Event Center and Nicholson's. Working closely with the Corporate Events Manager and the operations team, this position helps create seamless guest experiences through collaboration, communication, and meticulous planning. Success in this role requires a team first mentality, strong organizational skills, and a passion for making every celebration unforgettable.
IMPORTANT SKILLS & ABILIITES
We're looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, team-oriented hospitality environment and genuinely enjoys creating memorable experiences for others. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, highly organized, and able to confidently manage multiple events and priorities simultaneously.
This person should be a natural relationship builder with outstanding communication skills and a positive, can-do attitude. They understand that exceptional events are the result of collaboration and work closely with our Corporate Events Manager, culinary team, service staff, and vendors to ensure every detail comes together flawlessly.
Familiarity with the Downtown Cincinnati wedding and event market is a plus, along with a passion for hospitality, sales, and exceeding guest expectations. Whether coordinating a corporate luncheon, rehearsal dinner, or a couple's dream wedding, this individual takes pride in creating experiences guests will remember.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Sales & Guest Relations
· Respond promptly to all wedding and rehearsal dinner inquiries through The Knot, WeddingWire, Tripleseat, and other channels, maintaining an average response time of 4 hours or less.
· Schedule and conduct venue tours for prospective clients.
· Build customized event proposals and contracts.
· Process deposits and event payments.
· Schedule and coordinate menu tastings and planning meetings.
· Finalize Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and ensure all event details are accurate.
· Maintain consistent communication with clients throughout the planning process.
· Follow up with hosts after each event to ensure guest satisfaction and identify future opportunities.
Event Planning & Execution
· Manage and execute private events at The Backstage Event Center and Nicholson's, working collaboratively with the Corporate Events Manager to ensure an equitable distribution of events.
· Serve as the primary planner for all weddings and receptions from initial booking through event completion.
· Coordinate with clients, vendors, and venue staff throughout the planning process to ensure seamless event execution.
· Attend wedding ceremony rehearsals and planning meetings
· Coordinate décor drop-offs, vendor arrivals, and event setup logistics.
· Serve as the on-site event manager for weddings, corporate events, social gatherings, rehearsal dinners, and other private events as assigned.
· Ensure Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) are accurate and all departments are informed of event details.
Business Development
· Actively pursue new wedding and private event business.
· Build and maintain relationships with current and prospective clients, vendors, and community partners.
· Represent the venue at wedding shows, networking events, and other marketing opportunities.
· Promote The Backstage Event Center and Nicholson's as premier event destinations in Downtown Cincinnati.
Administrative & Operational Duties
· Ensure Schedulefly and OpenTable are updated with current event details.
· Maintain Tripleseat menus, packages, picklists, and event templates.
· Create and manage staffing schedules for all private events.
· Attend weekly manager meetings and bi-weekly sales meetings.
· Maintain a clean, organized, and presentation-ready event facility.
· Train, coach, and provide ongoing education for Backstage Event Center event staff.
· Previous event management experience required; wedding planning experience strongly preferred.
· Ability to work 40-50 hours per week.
· Hospitality or food & beverage experience preferred.
· Excellent organizational and time management skills.
· Strong written and verbal communication skills.
· Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
· Open availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
· Proficiency with event management software (Tripleseat experience preferred).
We offer competitive base pay plus commission!
For more information on us, please go to our websites: nicholsonspub.com & backstagecincinnati.com!
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
