Hire Event Vendors

FAQs

1. What should I verify about a clown’s skills, safety, and suitability for my event?

Ask for a clear description of the performer’s act (magic, juggling, balloon twisting, face paint, slapstick, audience participation) and examples (video clips or references) showing similar events and audiences. Confirm age-appropriate content and whether the clown can tailor material for toddlers, school-age kids, teens, or mixed-family crowds. Verify safety practices: how they handle props (fire, sharp objects), hygiene for face paint/ink and shared items, and procedures for distancing or stopping an act if a child becomes upset. Check background information—experience, references from event planners or parents, and proof of insurance or performer liability coverage.

2. What should a clear quote and contract from a clown include, and what hidden costs should I watch for?

The quote should state performance length, setup/teardown time, travel fees, number of performers, and whether materials (balloons, paint, props, sound system) are included. The contract must specify arrival window, performance schedule, payment terms, cancellation and weather policies, and insurance requirements. Watch for hidden fees: overtime or extended-performance rates, charges for travel time or parking, extra fees for face painting or balloon art beyond the agreed scope, and replacement costs for damaged venue property. Require a written change-order process and a rider outlining space, power, and safety needs.

3. How do I evaluate a clown’s reliability, crowd management, and contingency planning?

Request references from recent clients and ask how the performer handles late starts, interruptions, or upset attendees. Confirm a realistic timeline including set-up, showtime, and pack-up, and whether the clown brings a stage assistant or on-site contact for larger crowds. Ask about backup plans for performer illness or travel delays (standby performers or rescheduling options), and whether they carry spare supplies and simple first-aid items for minor incidents.

4. What logistics and venue requirements should I confirm before the event?

Provide exact load-in instructions, performance location (indoor vs. outdoor), power availability for music or microphones, and expected audience size. Verify required performance space and clearances (ceiling height for juggling, floor area for physical comedy), seating layout, and whether the venue imposes noise or time limits. Clarify restroom and changing facilities, storage for props, and parking or unloading zones for the performer’s vehicle.

5. What safety, behavior, and child-interaction policies should be agreed before booking?

Agree on boundaries for physical contact, photo policies with children, procedures for one-on-one interactions, and rules for handling children who are frightened or refuse to participate. Require that the performer follows venue safeguarding policies and, if working with minors extensively, provide relevant background checks or DBS/CRC records where applicable. Document incident-reporting steps and liability limits in the contract and confirm whether a guardian must be present for face painting or costume-assisted play.