How to choose an entertainer

Check with the entertainer what you'll get for your money

Find out what type of service is offered. For example, how long will the band play for, or the magician be on stage? Will the entertainers expect to be given breaks or meals? If you are booking live music, will the band do special requests? Can you limit how far a kissogram entertainer goes?

Ask the entertainer about their experience

It's essential to find out just how experienced someone is. If you're booking entertainers such as live bands, always check how long they have been performing together and whether they are used to big crowds such as weddings. The same applies to other entertainers such as children's party organisers or magicians. You'll want to be confident that your chosen clown can handle a group of rowdy children, for instance.

Ask the entertainer for testimonials or references

With entertainers such as bands, it's probably best actually to see them at an event or at the very least ask them for a demo tape. With other entertainers, ask them for references from other people, or better still, go on a recommendation from someone you trust.

Check about insurance

Lots of entertainers will have public liability insurance. This is important in case they damage your property, act negligently or—worse still—if someone got injured as a result of their performance.

Have they been CRB checked?

If you are booking any kind of entertainer for children, always check that the entertainer has been CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) checked. This ensures that there is no chance of booking someone who is unsuitable to work with children.

What's included in the price?

Double-check that you know exactly what is included in the price. Does the entertainer offer discounts or special packages for weddings or other special occasions? What happens if the entertainer has to spend longer or do overtime? Are their travel costs extra? Is VAT included in the price? After the deposit is paid, when is the balance payable?

Can you cancel?

Finally, check if the entertainer will charge if you have to cancel or postpone the entertainment. Can you avoid the charge by giving enough notice?