There are some things that can be done to help however. Just looking at this may help you pin point sources of time wasters. Is there anything that can be done to minimize need to “put out fires”? Are there any types of preventative actions that can be taken to at least reduce it?

What about interruptions? Can a phone voice mail be used instead of answering phone? Then when you do need to return calls, do them as a group, one right after another. What about email? Do you have to respond to emails during this time frame? Again, try to lump like tasks together, when you do need to email, handle it all at once instead of second they hit your inbox.

Then realize, what you thought was your 6 hours, in reality were perhaps a little over 2. Attack your to-do list with your highest priority, then give yourself a pat on back for working your best with those 2 hours you had, and that in reality, you did fill 6 hours, and perhaps have a better understanding of where it went. Knowing this will help reduce stress and frustration of trying to accomplish what may not be possible, and give your planning a more realistic approach.

If you are planning to have featured entertainment, present it as soon as dessert and coffee is served so that your audience is not distracted by service of food. In this way your guests can relax, enjoy their coffee and watch show without interruption. If you are planning to give awards or bonuses, present them immediately after entertainment while your guests are cheering and happy -- they will be in their best mood of evening and their reactions will be stronger.

When budgeting for an event, as a rule of thumb, you should plan to spend $20 - $100 per person for a cocktail party and $75 - $200 for a formal dinner. If you are looking for ways to stretch your entertainment dollar, consider buffets instead of sit-down dinners, D.J.'s or tapes instead of bands, postcard invitations rather than expensive formal ones. You might even consider sharing cost of a party with a fellow client, company or department to differ expenses.

And most importantly . . . remember to allow yourself to have fun! It's hard for your guests to relax when you can't. All of hard work should have been in planning stages of party. Hiring professionals to handle food, music and entertainment gives you freedom to concentrate on your guests in a relaxed way knowing that you have created a magical evening that they will talk about for weeks!

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Harry Maurer is a professional entertainer who performs regularly in showrooms of Las Vegas and Atlantic City. With over 20 years of experience, he provides comedy magical entertainment tailored to needs of his corporate clientele. He resides in Houston and can be reached toll free at (877) 223-6291 or on world-wide web at: hmmagic@aol.com.

If you are looking for great entertainment, please take a moment to visit The Comedy & Magic of Harry Maurer web site at:

www.hmmagic.com

The site describes types of shows he presents, lists his professional credentials, provides a list of past clients, press reviews, testimonials from satisfied clients and displays his "online performance Calendar" so that you can instantly determine his availability -- everything you need conveniently located to let you know that he is your best entertainment choice.

Located on site are also a variety of "online forms" where both entertainment agents or individuals can request promotional material or a quote for a particular event with no obligation!

If you have any additional questions or comments about this report or about The Comedy & Magic of Harry Maurer, we invite you to contact us by e-mail at: sales@hmmagic.com -- we'd love to hear from you!

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