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How to Budget for a Professional Magician

How to · Event

How to Budget for a Professional Magician

Make the birthday party memorable without draining your savings by spreading the cost over 18 months.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $600 before anything else
Across the 0% window $33.33/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $600 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A great entertainer makes the party flow, but the best ones fill up their calendars months in advance. You want to aim for that three-month window to ensure you get the performer you actually want rather than whoever is left over.

Booking early also lets you lock in the price and plan your payments before the cake is even ordered. It takes the stress out of the day when you know the bill is already handled in manageable chunks.

Remember that the 0% intro window on purchases of 18 months is a deadline, not a gift. If you still have a balance on the card once that time expires, you will start paying interest on the remaining amount.

The steps

  1. 01

    Book your performer early

    Reach out to magicians three months before the date. Popular entertainers have tight weekend schedules, so don't wait until the last minute. Get a clear contract that states the total cost upfront.

  2. 02

    Set your payment plan

    Since the average cost is around $600, break this down into smaller payments. If you pay $33.33 each month, you will have the balance cleared well before your deadline.

  3. 03

    Use your Citi Simplicity® Credit Card

    You can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card to cover the $600 booking fee. This card offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening, which gives you plenty of breathing room to pay it off.

  4. 04

    Automate your monthly payments

    Set up a recurring transfer from your bank to your card for $33.33 every month. This keeps you on track without you having to remember a manual payment each time.

  5. 05

    Confirm all details

    Reconfirm the date, arrival time, and length of the show one week before the party. Make sure the total charged to your card matches the final price agreed upon in your contract.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

What if I cancel the party?

Check the magician's cancellation policy in your contract before you book. Most will keep a deposit, so understand those terms before putting the charge on your card.

Does the card cost money to open?

The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card is designed without late fees or penalty interest rates. However, always review the full terms to understand all potential costs associated with the account.

Is a magician worth $600?

That depends on your budget and how much value you place on the entertainment. If it fits comfortably into your monthly spending plan, it can be a great way to handle the party logistics.

What happens if I miss a payment?

Missing a payment can lead to fees and potentially losing your promotional interest rate. Stick to your monthly plan to keep things simple and avoid extra costs.