What Most People Forget to Ask When Booking Event Entertainment

Booking entertainment for your event is a fun experience as long as you don’t get caught up in the excitement. Most people forget to ask a few key questions that can make or break the vibe of the night.

If you want smooth planning and unforgettable entertainment ask these questions.

1. What Happens If an Emergency Comes Up?
Let’s face it—life happens and sometimes cancelations take place. If the performer gets sick or has an emergency, is there a backup plan?

Ask: “Do you have a backup performer or backup band in case something happens. Reputable entertainment companies have a trusted network of professionals ready to step in. Using an agent acts as insurance if any emergency happens.

2. How Much Setup Time Do You Need?
Timing is everything. If your entertainer needs 90 minutes to set up and your venue only allows 30 minutes you’ve got a problem. Ask: “How early do you need access to the venue?” Make sure time frames are clearly communicated.

3. Will You Have Your Own Equipment ?
Not every act brings their own sound system, lighting, or mics are sometimes provided by a sound tech. Ask: “Do you provide your own sound and lighting, or should we hire a sound tech. Most high-end event and wedding bands need a sound tech. Need help coordinating the band, sound tech and stage ?

4. Can You Customize the Experience?
Great entertainers can tailor the experience to your vision. Want a grand entrance? Chill cocktail hour? Crowd participation games? Ask: “Can you customize your set to match the mood or theme of the event?”

5. Are You Insured?
Venues require vendors to carry liability insurance—and not every performer does. Ask: “Are you insured, and can you provide proof if the venue asks?”

6. What’s Your Cancellation & Weather Policy?
Especially for outdoor events, you’ll want to know: what happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate? Ask: “What’s your cancellation or rescheduling policy for rain or bad weather?” If you’re doing a destination wedding in Florida make sure you are conscious of Hurricane season.

Final Thought:
Booking entertainment is about more than checking availability and price. These behind-the-scenes questions can save you from awkward surprises.

If you want help booking live entertainment, sound, staging, and setup—we’ve got you covered.