I’m highly selective about reading Tarot cards at private events — and am sure my $$ rate is worth my precious energy. Private events can be a great gig — happy people, easy cash — or a potential nightmare.
So, here are my tips from 10 years of screw-ups and successes with private Tarot parties.
1. WHERE, WHEN, WHY?
Figure out what type of gig you want. This is a crucial 1st step. Restaurants? Hotel events? Private house parties? Bars? Every one holds a different type of vibe — so make sure it fits exactly with what you desire. I don’t do readings past 9pm and will chill the entire day before a party. My power time to read is 10-6pm, so I’m sure to be well rested for any night gig. I decline any type of bar event and prefer quiet, private house parties with 10 people max.
2. JUST SAY NO TO DESPERATE CASH
Never, never, never take a gig just for cash. Never. Always be highly alert as to your client, environment in which you’ll read, length of time and type of people. It can truly be a crash-and-burn experience if you grab a gig out of desperation.
3. LIST YOUR EVENT RATE
Be VERY clear about your rate. There’s nothing more irritating when I visit a website and no rate can be found. I find the mystery completely unprofessional and will certainly not take the extra step to email and wait for your response. Stating your rate also saves you from future miscommunication — such as when a client says, “I thought you said x amount per hour?” and hands you a check that’s $200 less than what you expect to see at the end of a long night.
Not listing your rate makes me think that you have something to hide, are ashamed of what you charge, or have such an exorbitant fee that you fear stating it. LIST YOUR RATE. Here’s how I list my services.
4. WHAT TO DISCUSS WITH THE EVENT COORDINATOR
Be very clear about your role and type of session you’ll do at the event. Either write it all up in a contract or make sure you have a lengthy conversation with the event coordinator. Ask if they have any questions or concerns.
State in no uncertain terms:
- length of session — and stick to it or you’ll end up with unpaid time!
- total number of clients per hour/party (include a 5 minute break per hour)
- what type of room set-up and view the event space, if possible
- your policy for sessions with tipsy/drunk clients
- clarifying if any minors will be at this party
- your rate and how you like to be paid (cash/check/online) and if a deposit is required
- cancellation/refund policy
5. WHAT TO BRING WITH YOUR CARDS
- a timer
- a bottle of water
- your accoutrements (rocks, crystals, candle if allowed)
- biz cards
6. KEEP IT SIMPLE
- Relax. Have fun but remember that it’s a work gig. Be professional. Leave when you’re done.
- Wash your hands during and after the party. Sage your cards when you get home.
7. FINAL TIPS
- Be direct.
- Be clear.
- Be professional.
All 3 will do you a world of good when it comes to booking parties. Reputation is everything in this biz. Always be aware that reputation both precedes and follows you. You’ll have at least 10+ people who see who you are, what you do and will tell 10+ friends about their reading.
Offer the host a free reading at the end of the night. It’s a great way to say thank you for the gig.
