Magician

To be a good magician, you must have the ability to perform magic tricks quite convincingly, despite the audience’s willing suspension of disbelief. You can buy kits from party centers or entertainment retailers or possibly take a continuing education course from your local college. Working as an assistant for an established magician is also a good way to learn the business. Having a good personality and the ability to work well with people is a strong selling point.


Start-up should be minimal. Visit the local library to find books on magic for an inexpensive way to learn the art. Investing in magic kits from retailers will cost you a little more. The most expensive start-up cost would be to take a class.


Perform for free at your friends’ parties or children’s school functions to get exposure. Once your name gets on the streets, start charging for your services. Attempt to work with your city’s parks and recreation department for leads or a convention center to get jobs at conferences. Working with an events planner or advertising agency is another good way to get your own name pulled out of the hat.


Approx. cost of start-up: $500 to $1,000


Approx. potential earnings: $6,500 to $20,000 or more


Typical fees: $50 per two-hour children’s party, $300 per two-hour adult event


Where to promote: Yellow Pages; entertainment section of newspapers; bulletin boards; networking with civic organizations; Web site with lots of photos, client testimonials, and an online booking method for customers


Qualifications: Ability to perform magic tricks convincingly, outgoing personality


Things needed: Magic trick equipment, business cards, computer for Web site management and e-booking


Required staff: No


Hidden costs:Advertising