Tips when Booking a Children’s Entertainer

by: entertainerdirectory
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Organising a children's party can be stressful, especially the entertainment which is often the center piece of the event.

Here are a few tips to ensure booking an entertainer is a smooth and trouble-free process.

Get a contract or confirmation letter.

Make sure you obtain a confirmation letter or contract once you have agreed everything with the entertainer. It should list all the details and costs. Many professional entertainers will do this as a matter of course and should also make all their terms and conditions available to you.

Be clear about what the fee includes.

If extra children arrive at the party, what will the additional cost be? Are all the extras included? (For example, presents and balloons). Does the price include all taxes and expenses? It may seem obvious, but ensuring both parties understand the costs involved can save an embarrassing situation at the end of the party.


Book early!

Children’s entertainers (especially the good ones) book up quickly, particularly on weekends. You might find it useful to have a few dates in mind when enquiring, especially if you are interested in a particular entertainer.


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.


Has the entertainer had a Criminal Records Bureau check?

Unlike many professions who have regular contact with children (such as teachers), children's entertainers does not have to be CRB checked. However, most professionals who work regularly will be able to supply you with evidence that they have gone through the process.

Check they have Public Liability Insurance.

It is definitely worthwhile checking that the entertainer you book has Public Liability Insurance and it is reasonable to ask for evidence. Many hotels and party venues now insist that entertainers have Public Liability Insurance. Members of Equity are automatically covered by the union's insurance policy.

These should help your party go without a hitch and be a memorable event for your child.

About the Author

For more party entertainment ideas and entertainers for childrens parties, visit the UK Entertainer Directory (http://www.entertainerdirectory.co.uk). If you want to leave to an expert, enlist the help of a professional party organiser.

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