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Waiting Staff at Events

💰 £10-£15/hr ⏱ Ongoing 📊 Intermediate

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What is it?

Waiting staff at events is a practical way for teenagers to earn money by helping out at parties, weddings, or community gatherings. It offers flexible hours and a chance to gain work experience while raising funds for your overseas expedition or adventure trip.

Why does it work?

This method works well because event organisers often need reliable, friendly helpers to serve guests, clear tables, and assist with logistics. By providing valuable support, you can earn an hourly wage, making it a steady and rewarding source of income.

What you'll need

  • Smart, clean outfit suitable for waiting staff (e.g., black trousers, white shirt)
  • Basic knowledge of serving etiquette and customer service
  • Contact details for local event venues or catering companies
  • A reliable way to get to and from events (public transport, parents’ lift, bike)
  • A mobile phone to communicate with event organisers

Step-by-step plan

1
Research local venues, community centres, or catering companies that regularly host events and might need temporary waiting staff.
2
Prepare a simple CV highlighting any customer service experience, reliability, and your enthusiasm to work.
3
Contact venues or event organisers by phone, email, or in person to offer your help during upcoming events. Mention your availability and ask about pay rates.
4
Agree on your working hours and responsibilities. Make sure you understand the event start/end times and any breaks.
5
Dress appropriately and arrive early on the event day to meet the team and get briefed on your duties.
6
Perform your tasks professionally: serve drinks and food politely, clear tables promptly, and help guests with any reasonable requests.
7
After the event, thank the organiser and ask for feedback or potential future opportunities.

How to advertise it

  • Create a polite and concise flyer or social media post offering your waiting staff services, and share it in local community groups or scout forums.
  • Ask your parents or teachers if they know of any upcoming events needing extra help.
  • Register with local event staffing agencies that accept younger workers.
  • Use word of mouth by telling friends and family you are available to work at events.

Realistic earnings

Most teenagers can expect to earn between £10 and £15 per hour, depending on the event type and location. Working a few evenings or weekends can quickly add up to several hundred pounds towards your fundraising goal.

Top tips

✅ Always be punctual and professional – first impressions count and can lead to repeat work.
✅ Learn basic serving skills online or from videos to boost your confidence and effectiveness.
✅ Bring a bottle of water and a small snack for breaks to keep your energy up during long shifts.
✅ Be polite and friendly to guests; good customer service often results in tips and positive references.

Common mistakes to avoid

⚠️ Underestimating how tiring event work can be – be prepared for lots of standing and moving around.
⚠️ Arriving late or unprepared, which can damage your reputation and chances of getting hired again.
⚠️ Not clarifying pay and hours in advance, leading to misunderstandings.