Musician and live act booking agency

Couples and event planners, companies, restaurants, bars, venues and festivals pay the booking fee. Your commission usually comes out of the artist's fee.

A commission on each gig you book, agreed in writing with each act. Some agencies also add a booking fee on top for the client. Check what your state allows.

• Sales and negotiation
• Knowledge of the local music and event scene
• Scheduling and contract management
• Customer service with event clients

• Some states license anyone who arranges paid engagements for artists, with exemptions for some booking agents. Check your state rules
• Use clear contracts covering fees, deposits, cancellations and sound or equipment needs
• General liability insurance; many venues and events ask for proof of coverage
• Revenue can be seasonal, especially around wedding and holiday seasons
• Check your lease or HOA rules if you work from home

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on your website, contract templates, insurance and marketing. These are estimates, so adjust them to your local market and how you work.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $600 to $4,000, depending on how many events you book and the commission you agree with artists. Revenue can be seasonal, so treat this as an estimate.

Some states license anyone who arranges paid engagements for artists, with exemptions for some booking agents, so check your state rules. Use clear contracts covering fees, deposits and cancellations, and consider general liability insurance.