Short answer. There are five offer models for booking an artist: flat fee, fee plus expenses, all-in, delivered at destination and guarantee versus a percentage of the box office. The right model depends on whether the event is free, ticketed or private, and on who covers each cost.
| Model | How it works | When it fits |
|---|---|---|
| Flat fee | A closed amount for the show | Free and institutional festivals |
| Fee + expenses | Net fee; the organizer covers flights, hotel, transport and riders | Private and corporate events |
| All-in | One amount covering the artist's fee and expenses | When full cost certainty is needed |
| Delivered at destination | The artist arrives on their own; the organizer covers local costs | Artists touring the region |
| Guarantee vs. box office | Minimum guarantee against a % of ticket sales | Ticketed concerts |
Common mistakes
- Comparing offers under different models as if they were the same.
- Forgetting tax withholdings in net-fee models.
- Accepting an all-in without checking what the technical rider includes.
Keep reading: Festival booking · Technical and hospitality riders
FAQ
What is the most common model for private events?
Fee plus expenses.
Who defines the model?
It is agreed with the organizer before the formal offer is sent to the management.
