All too often these days we hear the term “identity theft” and stories of people who suffered from stolen social security numbers, credit cards, passports, etc. Hundreds suffer each year from these pathetic and disheartening scams. Besides these countless acts of fraud, we in the entertainment industry also suffer from identity theft too. This “theft” though is different. Here, our ideas, concepts, styles and uniqueness are hijacked by others. While it’s true that imitation is a form of flattery, an entertainer’s most distinguishing characteristic separating one company or one performer from another is its approach.
We entertainers often discuss the fact that anyone can go to a store or online and purchase top quality speakers, amps, and lighting. Anyone can pay to construct a website creating the feel of a experienced company. In searching for entertainment for your once-in-a-life-time event, we caution you to be careful sifting through the mess of disguised information (especially) posted online. We stress that you should truly interview your event contractors (photographers, decorators, DJs, bands, etc). You should get a clear understanding of the experience and unique characteristics of your chosen contractors. Professional entertainers spend years perfecting their craft.
The purpose of this blog is twofold. First, I’d like to educate consumer on what they should look for when contracting entertainers for their special occasions. Secondly, I’d like to profess to other entertainers to please BE YOURSELF and do not steal unique performances from your competitors.
Recently a friend from another DJ company posted on FaceBook a screen shot from a competitors website of their setup. Then side by side my friend, Tony, posted his time stamped photo of his setup taken a few months earlier on his own personal camera. Interestingly, the photo from Tony’s setup and the competitor’s setup was exact… down to every last pixel. So, what does all this boil down to? Well… Tony created a unique presentation for his events. He invested in top quality gear. He accurately, and attractively documented it. He posted it online to promote his business, and the outcome is that a competitor posted Tony’s photos as it if were his own. – PATHETIC
Another sad example of this thievery is stealing a unique style from a competitor. Years ago, one DJ company came up with the idea for dancers to wear sequined vests… well it wasn’t long before most DJ companies were doing the same. Then, the next fad was costume changes where dancers wore outfits that tied in with choreographed music. Soon after, others emulated this concept. We at Xplosive Entertainment, a “Signature Styled Event Group” are very happy that these fads are gone, however the morale of the story is to stress that each company should be exclusive in its presentation, appearance, and performance.
The entertainment industry is unique. Comparing one company to anther cannot simply be a decision based on pricing. Entertainer’s talent, individuality, and efforts are the determining characteristics allowing a company to dictate their pricing. It is also these details which build the demand for their performances. Entertainers are not all alike, therefore the packages available shouldn’t be either. These concepts hold true in so many professions. We ask professionals to really evaluate their services and continually evolve to keep up with current trends. We strive to keep our company different than the rest, and hope that others take the same approach to their work. To take a unique approach to the planning of your next event, be sure to ask all the right questions. Realize that this business involves a lot of smoke and mirrors. Contract companies for your event that are experienced, understand your vision, and can deliver a distinctive memorable occasion for you and your guests to remember for many years to come!