Booking live entertainment can elevate your party and make it truly memorable. However, to ensure your event is a success, thorough planning, and research are essential to secure the best entertainment.

If you’re considering live entertainment for your next bash, here’s what you need to know to make sure everything runs smoothly and your guests have an amazing time:

How To Scout for Live Entertainment

Before booking any entertainer, ensuring they can deliver on their promises is crucial. Some performers may exaggerate their talents to secure a booking, only to fall short when it’s time to entertain your guests.

To avoid spending a lot on a mediocre performance, here are some tips for hiring the best live entertainment for your event:

Do Your Research

A quick Google search can tell you much about what you can expect from a performer. By checking out sites like Yelp or Google Reviews, you can pull up reviews and ratings to get an idea of what other clients have experienced with them.

Watch Videos

Many performers post videos of their past performances on their websites or social media platforms. This is a great way to see their style, energy level, and audience reaction.

Request References

If you find an entertainer you like, don’t be afraid to ask for references from their previous clients to get a better idea of your experience with the entertainer.

Understand the Costs

Frankly, hiring live entertainment for your party isn’t cheap. And if you have a budget for your event, it can take up a huge chunk of it.

Of course, prices will vary depending on the type of performer you choose, how popular they are, their experience level, and the duration of their performance. But no matter how much you pay, you’ll want to ensure you get the best bang for your buck. Here are the steps you should take to guarantee you and your guests have a good experience:

Step 1: Get Multiple Quotes

Don’t just book the first person you talk to. Compare prices from multiple entertainers to ensure you get a fair deal.

Step 2: Understand What’s Included

Ask if the quote includes travel expenses, setup and breakdown time, and any additional equipment needed. That way, you won’t be surprised on the day of the event.

Step 3: Plan For Extra Costs

Be prepared for hidden costs like sound and lighting equipment rentals or permits if needed.

Step 4: Book Early

Popular entertainers can get booked up months in advance, so you have to act really fast to secure a place on their calendar. After you’ve picked out some potential entertainers, contact them to check their availability on your event date.

Step 5: Clarify What is Needed on Your End

Depending on the type of live entertainment you pick, they might need your help with set up once they arrive. Here are some questions to ask so you know how to prepare when they show up at your place:

• Will they bring their own technical equipment, or will you need to rent it?
• Do they need specific lighting setups?
• How much space do they need to accommodate their setup?

Step 6: Go Over Performance Details

To guarantee everything goes as planned, you should confirm some things with your entertainer. For example, you must review the start and end times, including any breaks. And if you have any special songs, announcements, or requests you want them to make, don’t forget to talk about that, too.

Step 7: Get Everything in Writing

After you’ve sorted everything out, ask for a written contract that includes the following:

• Date, time, and venue
• Performance duration
• Payment terms
• Cancellation policy

Having a written contract can guarantee that you’re both on the same page, which will help avoid future misunderstandings or issues.