Add a little extra Magic to your wedding reception

Here are my top wedding tips (but not tricks!)

Sometimes it's all well and good getting recommendations from friends and family for entertainment ideas, but I thought I would put this together as a 'From the Source' guideline for booking a Magician for your Wedding.

I have performed at countless weddings over the last decade and have made many friends with industry professionals. One of which is the You & Your Wedding Team who wrote the following:

“When Josh Brett of Deceptive Arts worked his magic at the You & Your Wedding Bridal Retail Awards party, we were beyond dazzled by his illusions as he worked the crowd for intimate one-to-one performances. So we got in touch to find out how you can incorporate an awe-inspiring sideshow into your big day. ”

See below answers to some of the most commonly asked questions:

1. How should the couple reveal their magician to guests? Personally I don't think it's necessary to announce that a magician is performing. Instead, it can be a huge surprise to the guests, which can add a little extra magic to the day!  

2. How much should I pay for a Magician? Theres a famous saying 'You pay cheap, you pay twice' and Weddings are not an exception to that. As Weddings are one of the most important days of your life, it's wise to make sure you are happy with who you chose, try to meet them before the day and be sure that they are perfect for your wedding. Prices can vary depending on timing, location, number of guests etc but as a ball park figure you could be looking in the region of £500 - £1000+ for 2/3 hours. 

3. What should couples look out for in their search for the perfect magician? Ultimately, it comes down to experience, ability and confidence, which is why it's so important to do thorough research prior to booking someone. Word of mouth recommendations are always key, but look on google, social media and ask around.

4. How long should the performance last? I would recommend at least a minimum of two hours so that everyone gets a chance to see me perform and that the guests will appreciate the magic. I try to be as flexible as possible and have been known to perform over the time stated but every event differs. 

5. At what point in the wedding day should the performance happen? From extensive experience, I would say the best time for a magician is either prior to sit down dinner/reception drinks or after dinner when the party is starting. This way the guests are a lot more relaxed and up for fun and it's more of a party environment. It can sometimes be intrusive when performing during dinner as I prefer to let the guests enjoy their food. 9/10 weddings book me for the wedding reception as its the perfect pre-dinner entertainment that gets everyone talking, laughing and ready for an amazing evening ahead. 

6. Can you reveal any tips or tricks for a really standout performance? Having a confident, talented and witty magician is probably the most important aspect which people will remember. I have had people come up to me from three or four+ years ago who are still in awe by what they saw. I always try to add bespoke tricks and ideas that are unique to the bride and groom, leaving them with a gift and memory they can take home and keep forever... 

For any more information or advice, feel free to get in touch: info@deceptive-arts.co.uk

J