Key Takeaways:
- The right comedian transforms an event, turning it from good to unforgettable with the power of laughter.
- Choosing the perfect comedian for your event means understanding your audience and matching their energy to the right style of comedy.
From the desk of Jay himself
Here’s the truth: events are only as good as the moments people remember and nothing sticks like a room full of laughter. Whether it’s a corporate event, fundraiser, or private party, the right comedian can turn a “nice night” into a “holy sh*t, that was amazing” kind of evening. That’s what we like to do.
But picking the right comic isn’t as simple as scrolling TikTok or booking your cousin’s funny friend. Comedy’s an art, a vibe, and a science and when it hits, it kills. Here’s how to nail it, and we have some experience doing this. In fact, our sister company Super Nice Guys, is the number #1 third party producer of comedy specials in the US. We have specials out on all the major streamers. Now let’s talk comedians for your event.
Our Top 5 Tips to Hiring a Comedian For Any Event:
1. Know Your Audience and Your Event
- You wouldn’t serve tequila shots at a retirement luncheon (or maybe you would…call us either way). The point is, knowing your audience is everything. Is your crowd buttoned-up execs in suits or a rowdy group ready to let loose?
- The right comic will match that energy. Clean, clever, or full-throttle savage. There’s a performer for every room. At Jay Siegan Presents, we don’t just pull names from a list. We match personalities to parties so your crowd laughs for all the right reasons.
2. Set a Budget That Works for You
- Comedy talent ranges from your local legends to Netflix-famous icons. Fees vary, and so do production needs like travel, sound, lights, and maybe a green room stocked with something stronger than sparkling water.
- If you’ve got a number in mind, great. We’ll tell you who fits it. If not, we’ll walk you through options that won’t blow your budget but will still deliver the laughs.
Bottom line: We’ve done this a long time. We know what things cost, and we know what’s worth it.
3. Pick Your Flavor of Funny
Comedy isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s like picking the right playlist for your crowd. A few hits to consider:
- Corporate, Clean & Classic: Smart, relatable, safe-for-HR humor. (Think: Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno, Dana Carvey, Jim Gaffigan)
- Celebrity & Headliners: The ones your guests brag about seeing. (Think: Ali Wong, Nate Bargatze, Matt Rife, Taylor Tomlinson, Bill Burr)
- Improv & Interactive: Keeps the energy up and the audience on their toes. (Think: Craig Ferguson, Big Jay Oakerson, TJ Miller, Todd Barry)
- Roast-Style: Equal parts love and fire — perfect for bold crowds. (Think: Jeff Ross, Lisa Lampanelli, Rick Gervais, Whitney Cummings)
From top Netflix comedians to Saturday Night Live cast members, we’ve got the connections to make it happen. Want an up-and-coming killer from the comedy circuit? Done. A world-famous act to blow minds? Easy.
4. The Setup Matters
- Even the funniest person on Earth can bomb in the wrong setup. Give your comic a real stage, solid sound, and an audience close enough to catch the punchlines. Keep distractions low and the drinks flowing.
- You bring the people, we’ll help set the scene so the energy stays electric.
5. Let the Pros Handle the Rest
- Booking comedians is a game of timing, trust, and relationships and we’ve spent decades building all three.
- We handle contracts, riders, logistics, and all the boring stuff that gets between you and a great show. You just get to enjoy the payoff: a room roaring with laughter and guests saying, “That was the best event ever.”
Booking a Comedian for Your Event: Let’s Make Them Laugh
Comedy brings people together. It breaks the ice, loosens the tie, and turns any event into a memory. Whether you’re after a legendary name or the next big thing, Jay Siegan Presents has you covered.
Reach out to one of our talent liaisons and let’s make your event the one everyone talks about.
Jay Siegan
Owner, Jay Siegan Presents
Co-founder, Super Nice Guys