Hiring a party midget (little person entertainer) can add a unique, exciting element to your event without breaking the bank. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, corporate event, wedding, or any other special occasion, little people entertainers can bring charm, humor, and excitement that will have your guests talking long after the celebration ends. However, it's important to consider budget-friendly options to make sure you're getting the most out of your investment. Here are some tips on how to hire an affordable midget for parties and special occasions without compromising on quality or fun. midget for hire
1. Set a Realistic Budget
Before booking a little person entertainer, it’s important to establish a budget that works for you. While the price of hiring a midget can vary depending on factors like the performer’s experience, the length of the performance, and the type of entertainment, here are a few things to keep in mind when setting your budget:
- Hourly vs. Full-Day Rates: Some entertainers charge by the hour, while others may offer full-day packages. If you’re on a tight budget, consider booking the performer for a shorter period to keep costs down.
- Travel and Accommodation Costs: If the performer needs to travel long distances, be sure to ask about additional travel expenses like gas, flights, or accommodation. If possible, try to book a local performer to save on travel costs.
- Package Deals: Look for performers or agencies that offer package deals. Many entertainers will offer discounts for booking multiple hours or a combination of entertainment services, such as combining a stand-up comedy routine with a photo booth experience.
2. Compare Prices Across Multiple Performers
Not all little people entertainers charge the same rates. It’s important to shop around and compare prices before making a decision. Here’s how to get the best deal:
- Use Online Booking Platforms: Websites like GigSalad, Thumbtack, and The Bash allow you to browse performers’ profiles, read reviews, and compare prices. These platforms make it easy to find affordable entertainers who fit your budget.
- Request Quotes: If you’re booking through an agency or directly with a performer, ask for a detailed quote that includes travel costs, performance time, and any extra services. Make sure to get quotes from multiple sources so you can compare pricing and find the best deal.
While it's tempting to go with the cheapest option, always weigh the cost against the quality of the performance and the performer’s reputation.
3. Consider the Type of Entertainment You Want
The type of entertainment you want from a little person performer will affect the cost. Some acts are more affordable than others, so think about what fits your party and budget best.
- Comedy Routines: Hiring a little person comedian or improv performer is often more affordable than hiring someone for complex performances like magic tricks or acrobatic acts. If you want a fun and interactive experience that’s lighthearted and engaging, a stand-up comedy performance can be both cost-effective and entertaining.
- Themed Performances: If you're planning a themed party, you might consider hiring a little person entertainer dressed as a popular character. Themed performances tend to be more affordable since they don’t require any elaborate props or stage setups.
- Interactive Games: Little people performers who lead interactive games, trivia, or scavenger hunts are also a budget-friendly option. These activities keep guests engaged without requiring a huge investment in expensive props or equipment.
By choosing simpler forms of entertainment, you can still get the full experience without stretching your budget too thin.
4. Negotiate With the Performer or Agency
Many performers are willing to negotiate on price, especially if you're flexible with performance times or event dates. Here are some tips to save money:
- Off-Peak Times: If you’re willing to host your event during off-peak times (like weekdays or during the day), many entertainers will offer discounted rates. Performers often have more availability during these periods and may offer better deals.
- Multiple Performances: If you’re booking the same performer for several hours or across multiple events, ask for a package deal or a discounted rate for bulk booking. Many performers are happy to offer discounts in these situations.
- Provide Meals or Accommodations: For out-of-town performers, offering to cover the cost of meals or accommodations can be a great way to save money on their fees. This will help offset their travel costs, making your booking more affordable.
Don’t be afraid to have an open conversation with the performer about your budget. A little negotiation can go a long way in securing an affordable deal.
5. Book Directly With the Performer
Booking a little person performer directly, without going through an agency, is often the most cost-effective way to hire entertainment for your event. Agencies usually charge extra fees to cover their overhead costs, which can raise the total price.
- Find Local Performers: Look for performers in your area who are offering their services independently. They may offer lower rates since they don’t have to share the booking fee with an agency.
- Check Social Media and Websites: Many entertainers have social media profiles or personal websites where they list their rates and availability. Booking directly through these channels can save you money and ensure you're working with the performer you want.
6. Limit the Length of the Performance
Another way to save money is by limiting the duration of the performance. Most little people performers charge by the hour, so booking them for a shorter period can help keep your costs within budget.
- Plan for a Specific Time Slot: Decide when you’d like the entertainment to take place and keep the performance within a specific time frame. Whether it's an hour of comedy, a 30-minute interactive game session, or a 15-minute photo op, keeping the performance short and sweet is an effective way to stay within budget.
- Ask for a Discount for Shorter Performances: Some performers may offer discounts if the performance time is reduced. It’s worth inquiring about shorter performance options and what discount you can receive.
7. Plan for Group Entertainment
Rather than hiring a single performer, consider booking a group of entertainers at a lower rate per person. Many little people entertainers work in teams and offer group rates for performances or appearances.
- Team Performances: Group performances (such as comedy sketches or themed performances) can be more affordable than solo acts because they reduce the cost per performer while still delivering an exciting and dynamic show.
- Shared Events: Consider combining your event with others, such as joint parties or community events, to split the cost of booking entertainers. This way, you get a reduced price while still enjoying high-quality entertainment.
8. Look for Promotions or Discounts
Some performers offer special deals or discounts during certain times of the year or for specific types of events.
- Holiday Discounts: Some entertainers may offer promotional pricing during slower seasons or for certain holidays. For example, discounts may be available during the off-season for weddings or corporate events.
- Returning Customers: If you’ve hired a performer before, ask about repeat customer discounts. Many entertainers appreciate repeat business and may offer reduced rates for returning clients.
Conclusion
Hiring a party midget for a special occasion doesn’t have to be expensive. By setting a clear budget, comparing prices, choosing the right type of entertainment, and being open to negotiation, you can secure affordable entertainment that will make your event unforgettable. Whether it’s a comedy act, themed performance, or fun interactive games, a little person entertainer can bring joy and excitement to your celebration, creating memories that will last a lifetime.