​Many people have the mindset that magicians are for kid’s birthday parties.  Although there are magicians who specialize in this area, many magicians frequently perform at banquets, corporate events, weddings, schools, class reunions, fairs, festivals, picnics and trade shows.  Some perform exclusively for adults.  However, there are magicians who specialize in family-friendly entertainment.  Be sure to choose a specialist.

        Absolutely.  When you hire an entertainer, be sure to ask for suggestions.  You are paying for their expertise.  If the artist is not able or willing to help, you may want to look elsewhere.  An experienced performer will be glad to assist you.  They can provide valuable tips that will make your job easier.

​The event you are planning may be a onetime affair or it may only occur once each year.  It may be the only time you have booked entertainment for an event.  Although the process may be unique for you, an experienced entertainer does events like yours all the time and knows how to make them a success. If not, they wouldn’t be in business.  Look for acts that regularly perform at events of the type you are planning.  Experience does matter.  

​Some types of entertainment just aren’t suitable for everyone.  If there will be a variety of ages at the event, try to get an act that the entire audience will like.  Be aware that musical tastes vary even among those of the same age group.  Just to be safe, be sure to get a family-friendly act.

That depends on your budget and the type of entertaining you are booking.  The old adage is that "you get what you pay for" Before deciding what your entertainment budget will be, see what the act you would like to have charges.  People will remember and talk about the entertainment for a long time.  Many will not notice or care if some other budget items are diverted to entertainment to make the event a success.

Despite the general thought that for a performer to be good, they must be from out of the area, that is not necessarily the case.  Many local performers will do a great job and can charge you less because they don’t have the extra travel expenses.  Remember, the entertainer you are bringing in is a local act where he or she came from.

​When looking for entertainment, you should begin at least six months prior to the event whenever possible.  Most quality acts begin to fill their calendars several months ahead. Some popular entertainers are booked a year or more in advance.  Unless your date is flexible, getting an early start allows you to take your time to review your options and you won’t feel pressured or rushed.

With a new year, comes new challenges and opportunities.  One of my challenges this year is to start a blog and keep it going.  Although some of my entries may just be ramblings, I plan to provide at least some useful information.
 
Next time, I will begin to post my thoughts on how to hire an entertainer for an event.  Many adults can expect that at least once in their lives they will be asked to get or to provide the program for a club, school, church or family activity.  It may be for a banquet, a party or other special occasion.  If you feel comfortable doing the program yourself, you are fine.  However, many of us would rather hire a professional so we can enjoy the event with everyone else.  If this is you, be sure to check back each week for my next post.