A guest list sells tickets before anything else on the floor does. Fans plan their weekend around who they can meet, which makes booking the right guests the single most visible decision a convention makes. Here is how we approach it at Brandsome Elite, from the first shortlist to the final autograph.
1. Start with your audience, not the biggest name
The right guest is the one your attendees already love. A horror crowd lights up for genre favorites, a gaming expo wants the voices behind the characters, and a family show needs talent kids recognize. Look at last year's sales, your social comments and the fandoms that fill your vendor hall, then build a shortlist around them.
Think in groups, too. Two or three guests from the same franchise create a reunion, and a reunion gives fans a reason to buy early. You can browse our roster by franchise to see who shares a universe.
2. Know what goes into an offer
Every appearance is different, but most offers cover the same pieces:
- The appearance itself: a guaranteed fee, a share of autograph and photo sales, or a combination of the two.
- Travel: flights or mileage, plus ground transportation to and from the venue.
- Hotel: a room for each night of the show, sometimes for a companion or assistant as well.
- Hospitality: a per diem or meals, and access to a green room.
- On-site support: a handler or table assistant to manage the line and the cash box.
Being clear about all of it up front keeps negotiations short and avoids surprises at the airport.
3. Book early and confirm in writing
Popular guests fill their calendars months ahead, especially around peak convention season. Reach out as soon as your dates and venue are set, and put the agreement in writing: the days and hours of the appearance, any panels or photo ops, what you are paying for, and what happens if a filming schedule changes plans.
4. Plan the day around the guest
A great appearance is a comfortable one. Place the table where the line has room to grow, schedule panels so they do not eat the busiest signing hours, and build in breaks. Share a simple run sheet before the show so everyone knows where to be and when.
5. Promote the appearance
Announce guests one at a time to keep your feeds busy, tag the guest and their projects, and post reminders as the show gets close. Guests often share the announcement with their own followers, which brings new fans to your event.
Work with a booking agency
A booking agency handles the outreach, negotiation and logistics so your team can focus on the show. Brandsome Elite represents actors, composers, voice talent, athletes, DJs and authors for conventions, expos, film festivals and signings. Browse our clients or tell us about your show and who you have in mind.