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Hire the right performer with these event entertainment tips

When we start event planning, we all have the same goal. We want to throw an awesome party. One that has everyone laughing, talking, dancing and making memories that last a lifetime. No pressure, right? We’ve got some event entertainment tips so that you can hire the right entertainers for your party.

Identify the experience you want to create

Band performing for live audienceClose your eyes and imagine it. When you picture the height of your party, what does it feel like? Is it a formal, elegant affair? Is it a jam-packed dance floor? Is it a cool, sophisticated cocktail party?

Perhaps you plan to have an interactive experience for your guests. Or you want something subtle and subdued that allows people to mingle and network.

 

Ask around and read reviews

Now that you’ve narrowed down your search, it’s time to do a little more research on your potential performers. Now is the time to start reading up on reviews. The Knot, Wedding Wire and Facebook are all great places to see what people are saying.

We also recommend asking your venue, event planner and friends who they recommend. In some cases, your venue may only allow previously approved entertainers who pass their standards for professionalism and quality.

Ask the right questions

Once you’ve established the experience you are trying to create, it’s time to reach out to the entertainers Event entertainment tips - interview your band. Two people interviewing over coffee.that will shape that vibe. But how do you make sure you are working with the right person? We recommend interviewing your entertainers (or booking company) to make sure they are the right fit for your party. Here are some questions we recommend:

  • How long has the band/group been established?
  • How many members of the band/group are there?
  • Is there a lot of turnover within the band/group?
  • When was the last time a band member left the group?
  • How frequently does the band/group perform for events similar to yours?
  • Is the band/group/production company familiar with your venue?
  • Are there any technical requirements that the band/group has, in order to perform?
  • Will there be anyone on-site to help if there are technical issues with the sound and/or performance?

Book your event entertainer

You followed our event entertainment tips and found the perfect entertainer (or entertainers). Now it’s time to get down to business. In most cases you will have to put down a deposit and sign a contract to lock your performers in. If you’re working through an event or wedding planner, they will help you with this process.

Once you receive the entertainer’s contract, you typically have to sign and submit your deposit by a certain day. If you aren’t able to send back this information right away, so make sure to mark your calendar so you don’t lose your entertainer.

Did these event entertainment tips help you? Do you have any of your own? Leave them in the comments!

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3 ways to rock out your corporate holiday party

Oh corporate holiday parties. If you work in an office environment, you know that a holiday party is both expected and dreaded. Holiday parties are the ultimate team building exercise, but when you invite your employees to celebrate with you after working hours, you need to make it fun to avoid grumbling around the water cooler.

But with proper planning, corporate holiday parties create fun, lasting memories.  Here are three tips to help make your event awesome.

Review past parties

HR person reviewing past corporate holiday party successesChances are, your company has thrown a few parties in the past. Take some time to talk to employees and managers about what they liked and didn’t like about these parties. This gives you a good basis of what was successful – whether it was the venue, food, music or entertainment.

Once you have a list of things that captured your employees attention, then you can plan to create a similar experience. You can start with booking a similar venue, entertainers, bands and/or caterers.

Consider your audience

An LED robot makes a big impression, entertaining at a corporate eventWho’s coming to this party? Obviously your employees. While everyone is different, what common factors do they have in common? For example, if most of your employees have families and small children, a party during working hours may be easier because they don’t have to hire sitters.

If you have a very youthful corporate culture, a high-energy band or DJ may bring the party to life better than stringed instruments and a sit-down dinner. You may also want to consider entertainers beyond musicians to wow your guests.

Book your venue and musicians early for your holiday party

The holidays are busy, which means entertainers are in high demand. Popular musicians and entertainers will get fully booked throughout the holiday season so we recommend booking your holiday party entertainers no later than the beginning of November.

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