One of the biggest perks of party entertainment is the variety of entertainers to choose from: bands, magicians, balloon sculptors, face painters, aerialists…the list can go on and on! Of course, the amount of choices of entertainers for a party can also be a major downfall. There are so many party entertainers to choose from! Plus, once you do narrow down your options, it’s best to find a reliable, high-quality entertainer that delivers a good show.
The process for finding an entertainer for your party doesn’t have to be complicated—in fact, it can be quite easy (especially with the help of an entertainment professional)—but there are a few steps that ensure that you find the best entertainer for your next party.
Decide on the location and date of the party
The first step of party planning starts with setting the important details: date, location, and event goal. This can be fairly simple step if these details are preset or involve a lengthy venue selection process. If the party is an event, such as a fundraiser, gala, employee gathering, or festival, specific goals should be set; these goals are useful for evaluation and provide guidance during party planning.
Set a guest list
An estimated guest list count is an important part of choosing the best party venue. It also plays an integral role in selecting the best entertainer for your next party. The demographics of a guest list are an important factor in deciding on the best entertainer (e.g. a children’s entertainer for a children’s birthday party, classic band for a more experienced crowd, etc.)
Brainstorm entertainment ideas
Even when consulting an entertainment agent, making a list of entertainment ideas is a natural part of the brainstorming process during party planning. There are so many options, and a few ideas can help narrow down the list. Party entertainer ideas may include (but are not limited to):
- Juggler
- LED Entertainer
- Face painters
- Balloon Sculptor
- Hypnotist
- Dance bands
- String quartets
- Steel drum bands
- Caricature artist
- Magician
- Showgirls
- Dueling pianos
- Psychic
- Holiday character
- Celebrity impersonators
- Comedian
Search for entertainment professionals
The next step is to search for local entertainers OR local entertainment agents that can choose and coordinate every step of the process. The latter comes with some definite benefits; an experienced entertainment agent knows the best entertainers in Chicago within your budget and can easily select the right entertainer for your party. In addition to selection, an experienced pro can also confirm the details and manage the entire process for you. The largest benefits of an entertainment agents are the access to expertise and entertainment, all of which saves you time and enhances your party experience.
If you prefer to find the entertainer for your party, the first step is research entertainers. A bit of research (on review sites, social media, etc.) is important to ensure you hire a reliable, high-quality entertainer. As a party planner, you should always make sure you are selecting an experienced entertainer by asking questions about their past experience, cancellation policy, and financial specifics.
The next step is receiving and reviewing the entertainer’s contract. This should be done with due diligence to ensure that there is a full understanding of all the financial and legal terms.
Confirm details
Before the date of the party, you should always follow-up and confirm important details with the entertainer. This should be done prior to the event (sometimes multiple times, depending on the entertainer.
If the party is at a venue, some of these discussions should revolve around their equipment needs (which need to be relayed to the venue for confirmation, if applicable). (An entertainment agent can handle these details, if contacted and hired.) Some band and musical entertainers may need electrical outlets or other requirements for their performance.
