How to Hire an Entertainer for a Kids' Birthday Party
Neha Joshi
Your kid's birthday party is among the happiest moments of your life. Hiring an entertainer for this party will make sure the kids are not only entertained, but also go home happier than they came. We will guide you through the entire hiring process-what you should expect and what you shouldn't.
Doing it right ...
If you want to get a good deal, always choose an entertainer who provides multiple services.
The benefits of hiring an entertainer are plenty. He will keep the kids entertained, make sure they're happily busy throughout the party, and also leave you free to take care of the parents. The first thing you should know is that entertainers offer more than one service.
While clowns and magicians are the first preference, you also have face painters, jugglers, puppeteers, costume characters, and storytellers. It is always advised that you opt for an agency that provides as many services as possible.
If you're lucky, you may find entertainers who entertain both, kids and adults. Mentioned here are a few things you need to consider while hiring an entertainer for your kid's birthday party. While the options available are going to be plenty, it is very important you zero in on the very best.
Distance
Check the distance of the agency's office from your home. If it's a lot, it is advised you don't sign them up. First, they're going to charge you transportation costs more often than not.
Second, there is a very high chance they might outsource the work to an agency nearer to you, which means you will be shelling out more than what you otherwise would.
Why a local agency
There are a lot of reasons why a local agency is the best option. First, you can actually visit them often with all the doubts you may have.
You will be more at peace knowing that the entertainers are close, and can be contacted any moment. The time for them to reach the venue also reduces and so does the cost.
Quotations
Always ask two or more agencies for quotations. This will give you a general idea about the costs you're going to incur and for what. Bargaining also becomes a tad easier once you know what you're dealing with.
Remember to check what all you're being offered and the respective prices quoted to you. Sometimes, even if the price is a little steep, what you're getting in return might also exceed expectations. Check if the agency is including liability insurance. This insurance is a must; check your local governing rules for more information on this insurance.
Authenticity
Checking the authenticity of the agency before paying them the fee is of vital importance. The best ways by which you can do so is by checking up information on their website and by going through their advertising material such as pamphlets, brochures, etc.
See if they are listed in any forum, club, or organization. Read up on them as much as you can. Ask for licenses and documents such as identity proof. Look for ways by which you can ensure that the agency you zero in on is legally sound.
Fees
Make sure you ask for a detailed quote and work on it till every single detail is discussed till you're sure and confident. It is advised that you either draw a check, pay cash, or use PayPal.
Do not give your credit card details to someone you're working with for the first time. Most people pay cash once the entertainers have reached the venue on the said date. This way, you take no risk at all. Ask if you can book their dates with an advance.
References
Always ask the entertainer for recent references, preferably people they have performed for in the last month.
Call these references and inquire about their experience. Don't forget to ask about the age group the entertainers entertained. This way, you can rest assured that your children are in safe hands and that your party is going to be a success.
What You Need to Provide From Your End
Date and Time
While in discussion, you need to provide certain details from your side, first and foremost the date and time.
If you're opting for a local agency, chances are they might already have bookings. This becomes all the more possible if it's the holiday season. Also important is the time.
Venue Details
Venue details not only include the address, but also other specifications such as height and width of the activity area, and safety precautions.
Certain activities like juggling require a minimum height. Though this may not seem important initially, most of your activities are going to depend on these specifications alone.
Questions You Need to Ask Before Hiring an Entertainer
How many children will the contract cover?
Will the time stated in the contract cover eating time?
How much time do you require to prepare before you start?
What items do I need to supply from my side?
What kind of payment options do you offer?
Do you'll have any activities included for adults as well?
How many people can be a part of your team?
Write down all the points mentioned here as tasks, and tick them off your checklist after completion. So you see, hiring an entertainer for your child's birthday party will not only give you some breathing space to look after other guests at the party, but also ensure the party is a successful affair and that everyone goes home smiling.