Pros and Cons of Hiring a Celebrity Entertainer for Your Event
These days, it’s easier than ever to hire a celebrity entertainer for all types of events. You no longer have to go through a talent agent, thanks to apps that can allow you to book directly, whether you’re looking for a famous singer, an actor, a comedian, or just about any other type of artist. Everyone from Damon Wayans Jr. to Adam Levine and Amy Poehler can show up to entertain the crowd.
Of course, as with just about anything, there are pros and cons of hiring a celebrity entertainer that you will want to consider before booking.
Pros
It’s guaranteed to wow your audience. Having a surprise celebrity at your event is sure to impress. Just imagine the looks on everyone’s faces when an artist like Kelly Clarkson starts belting out Since U Been Gone? Or maybe Jim Gaffigan comes out with those famously funny stories about his five kids? There’s no doubt that people are going to be talking about it for many years to come.
There’s nothing like a live performance. If you’re thinking about setting up a playlist and blasting out the tunes instead of hiring a live entertainer, you might want to think again. Live performers add a whole other dimension to any event, something you won’t get out of a pair of speakers.
Raising More Funds or Increasing Sales. If you hire a celebrity entertainer, it’s almost always guaranteed to boost attendance. For a corporate event aimed at increasing sales, a celebrity performance is one of the best ways to achieve your goal. Plus, the caliber of the entertainer can be an important indicator that your organization is one to take note of. In fact, USA Today reported that research revealed a celebrity endorsement increases sales by an average of 4 percent relative to a company’s competition.
Celebrities are great for fundraising events too, as they can help you meet your funding goals and then some.
Cons
The cost. Obviously, a celebrity is going to come with a higher price tag as compared to someone who isn’t well known. However, if you can swing it, depending on the type of event hiring one could more than pay for itself. It’s also possible to cut the cost by booking through a talent app rather than going through an agent.
Scheduling. Most celebrities have a very busy schedule which means you may need to have more flexibility when it comes to the date and time of your event. Famous artists are often booked months or even years ahead. Being flexible can help here too – perhaps there’s a celebrity who isn’t as hot at the particular moment but can give credence, such as a B- or C-lister.
Additional needs. The more famous the entertainer, the more demands they usually have and the more expensive the performance is likely to be. You’ll have to be prepared to cater to that to book big names, people who are known across the globe. Also, consider that while most entertainers are willing to change their act to suit your particular needs, some may insist on following their own playlist, for example. If you’re hiring a comedian, you’ll have to be sure the act suits the audience, meaning no vulgar, offensive jokes if it’s a family-friendly event.
