Everyone knows that the event will not be as good if you skimp on the entertainment. You can order a cheaper menu, select fewer decorations, or even wear clothes off the rack, but if you use cheap entertainment, you’ll get exactly what you paid for. The rule here is to select the best you can find and find better and cheaper ways to get the best for your event.
1 – Perhaps a two-bid deal is possible
If you’re bringing the cover band to your event and there’s a similar event in your community the next day, maybe you can share the cost with another “event host” and you’ll both get a big discount on the price? Take them in and take them out once and pay for the show twice? Ask the scheduling agent if that’s a possibility when you start planning your event, then check your venue hours. There may be more than one party where your entertainment could play!
2 – Plan your event closer to entertainment
If you’re planning on having everyone travel anyway, why not schedule your event at one of the entertainment centers so the bands don’t have to travel? Still, an event located in the center of specific entertainment venues can be cheaper and more fun than the original venue. Think about it. Travel cost for attendees may not make a real difference, and it may be cheaper to hire the band if they don’t have to fly to your location. Research locations!
3 – Consider a smaller band
Travel arrangements for five people and instruments plus sound equipment are much cheaper than traveling for ten. Rethink the number of people in the band? Do you really NEED backup singers for your cozy late night gig, or is a one-man band, with an additional singer, more than enough entertainment for your crowd? You are going to dance? Will the dance band be as important as the talent of the singer who performs? Maybe you just need a singer with a couple of backup people. Your agent will know who best fits your place and expectations.
If all else fails, ask the agent if they can’t give you a discount on the price. Negotiation is important, and everyone does it. Feel free to ask for that lower price if you are on a budget and require a cost adjustment. It’s all part of the deal.