Quick answer
For corporate events, weddings, cocktail hours, private parties, fundraisers, and after-dinner entertainment, pricing usually depends less on a fixed hourly rate and more on the value of the event, the performance format, and the logistics required to make it work smoothly. Events with Seth Dale Magic typically start at $1500.
What affects the price?
The biggest factors are the event date, location, audience size, type of event, amount of performance time, and whether you want close-up magic, a seated parlor-style show, or a combination of both.
A cocktail hour for 75 guests is very different from a corporate holiday party for 300 people or a seated after-dinner performance for executives. The quote should reflect the actual job, not just the number of minutes.
Why a simple hourly rate can be misleading
Two events can both ask for “one hour of magic” and still be completely different jobs. A small private dinner in a quiet room may need one approach. A loud corporate reception in a large venue may need more planning, more energy, and a different structure so enough guests actually experience the magic.
That is why a good quote should account for the event flow. Will guests be standing or seated? Are speeches happening? Is the room spread across multiple areas? Is the magic meant to break the ice, fill a transition, or become the main entertainment moment?
Close-up magic vs a seated show
Close-up magic is usually best for cocktail hours, receptions, networking events, and parties where people are moving around. A seated show is better when everyone should share the same moment at the same time.
Some events benefit from both: close-up magic during arrivals followed by a short parlor show after dinner.
What a lower quote may leave out
Price is not the only thing to compare. Ask whether the performer has experience with your type of room, whether they can handle adult corporate or wedding audiences, whether they need sound or staging, and whether they understand event timing. The cheapest option can become expensive if the performance feels awkward or does not fit the event.
What a stronger quote should include
A professional quote should make the plan feel clearer. It should explain what kind of performance is recommended, when it will happen, what setup is needed, how many guests it can reasonably cover, and what happens if timing shifts. Events change in real time, especially weddings and corporate parties, so flexibility matters.
What should you ask before booking?
Ask whether the performer regularly works your type of event, whether their style fits your audience, what setup is needed, how they handle timing, and whether travel or special logistics are included.
When magic may not be the right fit
Magic is not ideal for every event. If the room is too loud for conversation, if guests are spread across several disconnected spaces, or if the event schedule is already packed with speeches and presentations, the format may need to be adjusted. A good performer should tell you that before you book.
Bottom line
If you are planning a NYC or New Jersey event, send the date, location, guest count, and event format. That is enough to start figuring out the right performance and realistic pricing. You do not need to know the exact format first; a short conversation can usually clarify whether close-up magic, a seated show, or a mix of both makes the most sense.