Okay, let’s tackle this. So Melissa Banks has 10 years of experience as an event planner, which is a solid foundation. Her skills in event management, social media marketing, and budgeting are also valuable. Location is Jackson, Mississippi, which is a smaller market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, event planners in the South typically earn lower median salaries compared to those in other regions. The average hourly rate for event planners in the United States is around $25-$35 per hour. Considering Melissa's experience and skills, I estimate her hourly rate to be around $45, which is slightly above the national average.