Don’t Skip the Fine Print

A seamstress, shore power, a specific brand of sparkling water, and the infamous…. green M&M’s. The “hidden requests” in a contract rider. Requests inserted because the performer or their agent really wants them in the greenroom or to see if you actually read the fine print. ALL of the fine print. I have reviewed hundreds of contracts and riders. Yes, they include some crazy language. Yes, it can be tedious work. But, it is crucial that you read every single word.

Catching requests like a specific brand of water or a particular snack for the performer’s greenroom is incredibly important. It tells the performer or their representative that you are detail oriented and responsible; that you can be trusted with the little things. They truly appreciate it. Yes, it is amazing what something like this can convey. It sends the message that you cared enough to review the contract in its entirety, made note of the special request, and made the item available to the performer.

If you can properly accomplish something like a special request buried in a contract or rider, most likely you will get other important things correct like stage setup, production support, ticket sales, hotel arrangements, transportation needs and the like. The performer’s representative will often be way easier to work with throughout the course of the event because you have earned their respect. Do not take that for granted. Fostering a good relationship with a performer’s representative will go a long way for a mutually beneficial future. You never know when you will work together again.

So please, for the sake of your reputation and the longevity of your career as an event professional, read the fine print.

Have you encountered some crazy requests? I’d love to hear about them!
Email me or share them below.

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who has learned a variety lessons the hard way 😉

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