Live event planning is a challenging endeavor, even for seasoned event planners. Researching and selecting the right entertainment is crucial for maintaining a sparkling reputation in the industry.
Celebrity appearances and emerging talent are great go-tos, but how do you decide which to book? Each lends a particular mood, and understanding how each of these complements the other aspects of your event is a key skill.
Celebrity Appearances Can Feel Powerful
Bringing in a big name can feel like a power move—and let’s be honest, sometimes it is. Depending on the celebrity and their current standing with the media and fans, their social influence and audience can help launch your event into headline territory.
Think about it. One Instagram story, one red carpet moment, or one photo op with your C-suite, and suddenly your brand is everywhere. Instant credibility. Instant buzz.
But (and there’s always a but,) big-name, NYC celebrities may not be able to offer an intimate, flexible, or personal feel to your event. More fame means more security and busier schedules. Consider the objectives of your event. Do you want a more close-knit feel, or is this a grander event where you can leverage a meet and greet? If you’re leaning toward a more grounded vibe, an A-list star may not be the best choice.
Consider Hedging Your Bet on Emerging Talent
Now, here’s where things get interesting.
Emerging artists—musicians, performers, creators—bring a different kind of spark. They’re hungry. They’re tuned in. They’re usually all over social media, building community and showing up in ways that feel real.
When you book rising talent, you’re not just planning entertainment—you’re making a statement. You’re saying, “We see what’s next. We support up-and-coming artists looking for a break. We’re not afraid to take a chance.”
Plus? They’re usually easier on the budget, more available for pre-event content, and way more down to hang with your guests post-show.
So, What’s Better?
Let’s not play favorites—because the truth is, it depends.
Celebrities can lend your event extra media attention, ticket sales, and a focus point in the itinerary. It’s a surefire way to capture attention, snap cameras, and generate buzz before the doors even open.
If your goal is connection, trendsetting, or creating an “I saw them before they blew up” vibe? Go with emerging talent. These artists tend to engage deeply, perform passionately, and leave a lasting impression that feels more personal.
Think Strategy, Not Status
Before you start cold-calling agents or stalking TikTok, take a beat.
Ask yourself:
- What does your audience actually want?
- Is this event about prestige or authenticity?
- What kind of story do you want to tell—and who helps you tell it?
Your talent choice should serve your event’s bigger purpose—not just its Instagram story.
A Tale of Two Wins
We’ve seen it go both ways. A tech brand brought in a surprise celeb DJ, and the photos alone carried their launch campaign for months. Meanwhile, an arts organization featured three indie musicians with micro-followings and ended up going viral—because it felt intimate, raw, and real.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But there is one truth: the right talent creates a ripple effect. Get it right, and people will talk about your event long after the lights go down.
It’s Not About Fame—It’s About Fit
Whether you’re wooing a big-name headliner or championing the next big thing, talent booking is a strategic choice. Get clear on your goals, know your audience, and don’t be afraid to take a creative risk.
Because at the end of the day? Your audience doesn’t care how famous someone is—they care how they feel when the lights hit the stage.
Want help making bold talent choices that actually move the needle? Exhibit at The Event Planner Expo 2025—where industry leaders, trendsetters, and decision-makers come to connect.
FAQs: Talent Booking for Maximum Event Impact
Q: Is it really worth the money to book a celebrity if they’re only there for 15 minutes?
Sometimes, yes. If your event needs media buzz, influencer clout, or investor attention, that 15-minute photo op could be the most shared moment of the night. But if you’re working with a tight budget or need deeper engagement, you might be better off investing in someone who’s going to be part of the full experience—not just a quick cameo.
Q: How do I know if my audience cares more about meeting a famous star or experiencing something new?
Think about how your audience tracks with each option. Are they going to be the type of crowd that is media-driven, corporate, or focused on the clout factor then a celebrity might resonate better. If your audience is a bit younger, skirts on the edge of pop culture, or if you’re planning a smaller event in general, emerging talent will be a better call.
Q: What if the celebrity doesn’t promote the event on their socials?
If you want a celebrity to promote your event on their social media, then you need to build it into your contract. Celebs don’t work for free, and event promotion is considered work when you have the social media influence that they do. If they don’t do promotions? Then build your marketing plan to showcase their appearance.
Q: Is it risky to book emerging talent no one’s heard of yet?
Sure, it’s a leap—but it can also be a power move. Audiences love discovering new voices, especially when it feels curated and intentional. If you can frame the booking as “the next big thing” and back it up with smart storytelling, it can make your event feel ahead of the curve. And if they blow up next year? You’ve got bragging rights.
Q: Can I book both a celeb and emerging talent at the same event?
Absolutely—and that combo can be magic. A high-profile headliner draws the crowd, while emerging talent keeps things fresh and engaging. Just make sure the lineup feels cohesive and the transitions are smooth. The goal is to create a vibe, not a talent whiplash.
Q: What’s one mistake planners make when booking talent?
Trying to “wow” without strategy. Booking a celebrity just for name value—or choosing an indie act because they’re affordable—won’t work if it doesn’t fit your event’s vibe or audience. Talent should never be an afterthought. It should be baked into the experience you’re trying to create.
Q: How early should I start scouting talent for a major event?
Ideally 4–6 months out, sometimes longer for in-demand talent. Celebs book up fast, and even emerging artists with growing followings can be tough to lock down during peak seasons. Bonus: the earlier you book, the more time you have to leverage pre-event content and build excitement.
Q: What if I can't afford either but still want an engaging experience?
Lean into interactivity. You don’t need a famous name to make your event unforgettable. Think immersive installations, interactive performances, or surprise guest moments from within your community. Authenticity often hits harder than a name drop—and it usually costs less.
Q: Do celebrities ever hurt the vibe of an event?
It’s rare—but yes. If their energy doesn’t match the crowd, if they’re visibly disengaged, or if the audience wasn’t there for the celeb culture to begin with, it can feel awkward or forced. Always ask yourself: is this person aligned with the mood and mission of the event?
Q: Where can I connect with talent reps or discover new performers?
If you want access to both the bold-faced names and the breakout stars, The Event Planner Expo 2025 is where the connections happen. You’ll meet talent agencies, entertainment managers, and other planners who’ve been in the trenches—and can give you the real scoop.
