Children's Entertainer Booking Tips
by: entertainerdirectory
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Booking an entertainer for a child's party can be more complicated than you might think - it's not just a case of checking they are available!
Here are some of the most important things you should consider:
Make sure you get a confirmation letter/ email or contract.
When you have agreed everything, make sure you obtain a confirmation letter or contract from the entertainer that lists all the details and costs. Most professional entertainers will do this as a matter of course and should also make all their terms and conditions available to you.
Make sure you understand what the quoted fee does and does not cover.
Does it include VAT and traveling expenses? If extra children turn up at the party, will there be an additional cost? Are all the materials, such as presents and balloons, etc. included? Unexpected costs can bring a party to an uncomfortable climax!
Check supervision levels required at the party.
Many performers require a minimum child to adult ratio and that children are supervised at all times. You need to ensure there are enough parents to meet these requirements and find out what happens if there are more children than planned for.
Make the booking early.
It is a good idea to have a few possible dates when making enquiries, especially if you are interested in a particular entertainer. The good ones book up rapidly, especially on weekends.
What does the entertainer need?
The entertainer will have requirements, such as a private area for preparation, or a a certain amount of floor area - all depending on the type of performance. In fact, an experienced performer should check these details with you at an early stage. It is also worthwhile checking what happens in the event of bad weather or other unexpected occurrence.
Do you want extra's, such as presents?
Quite a few entertainers include give-ways and presents in their show, or offer them as optional extras. These could be photo's, balloon models, toys or other gifts. You need to ensure they are suitable for all the children at the party and determine if the cost is included in the fee.
Find out what the entertainers cancellation policy is and when payment should be made.
Some performers may require a nonrefundable booking fee and some might refund a deposit. Some may need the fee paid before the performance while others may be happy for it to be paid after the party. Find out how the payment should be handled and check it is clear in the contract.
Check the performance content.
Make sure you check what the performance involves, how long it takes and what age group it is aimed at. Finding out at the last minute that the act includes juggling and you are expecting it to happen indoors, or that the performer is made up as a clown (which many young children find scary) could cause problems.
Is the entertainer covered by insurance?
You should definitely ensure that the entertainer you book has Public Liability Insurance, and don’t be afraid to ask for evidence. If you are hiring a venue, you should also check insurance requirements with them. Many hotels and party venues now insist that entertainers have Public Liability Insurance.
Has the entertainer been checked by the Criminal Records Bureau?
Many professions who have regular contact with children (such as teachers) must have a CRB check. Although a self-employed children's entertainer does not have to be CRB checked, most professional entertainers will be able to supply you with evidence that they have gone through the process.
About the Author
For clowns, puppeteers, face painting, children's magicians and everything else you may need for a child's party visit the UK Entertainer Directory at http://www.entertainerdirectory.co.uk/.
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