How can you save money when selecting a venue for your live concert?

1 Research your options

Before you contact any venue, do some research on the available options in your target area. Look for venues that match your genre, audience size, and budget. You can use online platforms, social media, or word-of-mouth to find out about different venues and their reputations. Compare the prices, facilities, services, and policies of each venue and make a shortlist of the ones that suit your needs.

2 Negotiate the deal

Once you have a shortlist of potential venues, you need to negotiate the best deal possible. This involves discussing the terms and conditions of the contract, such as the rental fee, the percentage of ticket sales, the sound and lighting equipment, the security and staff, the merchandising and catering, and the cancellation policy. You should always try to lower the rental fee or increase the percentage of ticket sales, as these are the main sources of income and expense for you. You should also ask for any discounts, waivers, or incentives that the venue can offer, such as free promotion, parking, or backstage access.

3 Be flexible and creative

Another way to save money when selecting a venue is to be flexible and creative with your options. You can consider alternative or unconventional venues, such as community centers, churches, schools, or parks, that may charge less or even nothing for hosting your concert. You can also look for venues that are off-season, off-peak, or off-the-beaten-path, as they may have lower demand and more availability. You can also collaborate with other artists or organizations to share the costs and benefits of the venue, such as co-headlining, opening, or sponsoring the event.

4 Build relationships

One of the most important aspects of selecting a venue is to build relationships with the venue owners, managers, and staff. They are the ones who can make or break your concert experience, and they can also help you save money in the long run. By being respectful, professional, and friendly, you can establish trust and rapport with them, which can lead to better deals, referrals, or repeat bookings. You can also show your appreciation by thanking them, giving them feedback, or sending them gifts or cards.

5 Plan ahead

Finally, you can save money when selecting a venue by planning ahead. The earlier you book your venue, the more likely you are to get a good price and avoid any last-minute fees or hassles. You can also take advantage of early-bird discounts, special offers, or loyalty programs that some venues may have. Planning ahead also gives you more time to prepare your concert, promote your event, and sell your tickets, which can increase your revenue and reduce your risks.

6 Review your contract

Before you sign any contract with a venue, you should always review it carefully and make sure you understand and agree with everything. You should also check for any hidden fees, clauses, or liabilities that may affect your budget or performance. If you have any questions, doubts, or concerns, you should ask for clarification or modification before you commit. You should also keep a copy of the contract and any receipts or invoices for your records and reference.