How do I hire a close up magician?

Hiring a close up magician, doesn't have to be a daunting task. I'm here to help you with a few quick pointers. I hope these will be useful to you even if you don't book me. 1. Have a think before you start. The first step to think about is where you see magic fitting in. See the answer to the question below this one for more detail on the different types of close up magic. For now, it's a good idea to get an idea about when during your event magic should take place and what else guests might be doing during that time. If you're not sure, that's OK. An experienced magician will be able to guide you with just a few quick questions. 2. Find a magician. If you have a recommendation for a magician, then that's a good place to start. If not, then search for magicians online and look for a few that appeal to you. The secret is to look for evidence of their experience. Do they have photos and videos of them performing at events? Not just pictures of them holding a pack of playing cards, or performing down the pub. Do they have any reviews? 3. Get in touch. I would suggest choosing two or three that you like the look of rather than trying to message ten or more magicians. It's easy to tell when someone has copied and pasted their message. I can't talk for all magicians, but those generic enquiries are less likely to get my full attention. I want to work for people who me to work for them. 4. Arrange to speak on the phone. Performing close up magic is a very personable thing. Whoever you hire is going to be talking to your guests 'up close' (the clue is in the name!) Speaking to them on the phone, or via a video call is a great way to get an instant idea about the personality of the person you are considering. Plus it can save you hours of emailing round. 5. Ask questions. A professional magician is knowledgeable about magic and entertainment. They know what works best, and what might end up being a flop. Ask as many questions as you want, and work with them to create the perfect event for you. By the way, if the close up magician you enquire with can't give good answers to those questions, it might mean they are less experience than they claim to be. 6. Organise the final details. The magician you choose will tell you the details they need in order to book you in. After that, it's simply a case of paying the deposit and waiting for the big day. If you've found this helpful, why not reach out to me and see if I can help you further. Click here to contact me.

What styles of close up magic are there?

One of the best things about close up magic (and close up mind reading) is that it is incredible flexible. Here are just a few options, for you to think about. If you are unsure, then please get in touch as with just a few quick questions, I can help you to figure out what's best for you. Walkaround magic - This is where the close up magician greets guests sharing magic with each small group, perhaps as they get a drink at the bar. It's a great way to welcome people! Table magic - In the magic world, we call this 'table hopping.' That should give you an idea of what happens. The close up magician goes from table to table performing for each group. Often this takes place between the courses of a meal. Close up magic show - Think of this as an exclusive show that takes place in your own home, or in a space you've hired. The magician performs for up to about 30 people at once, so it's great for more intimate gatherings. The advantage is as the magician is doing just one performance, they can add in a few personal touches to make your the entertainment even more special.

How far do you travel?

I travel across the whole of the UK to perform close up magic. I'm based in Staffordshire which means I'm ideally located to cover most of the country. As well as Staffordshire, some of the more common locations I perform in are: Birmingham Nottingham Shrewsbury Manchester Sheffield Oxford London

Will close up magic work for my event?

One of the best things about hiring a close up magician is that it's flexible enough to fit into a variety of events and venues. Close up magic, close magic, close hand magic and table magic (all words for the same thing) are a form of walkaround entertainment. That means, I'll mix with guests and entertain them in the groups they are standing in. The advantage of walkaround entertainment is I can make my close up magic very interactive and engaging. The audience and I are in a shared space and so the magic can adapt to them. This is very different to a magic show where the audience are seated and facing one direction. In the past, I've performed my close up magic in people's homes and gardens, in hotels, in bars and restaurants, as well as some more unusual venues such as at a trampoline park, and on a moving steam train! As far as events go, again, magic fits in at almost any event. I've performed at many weddings, corporate events, proms and balls, milestone birthdays, christenings and anniversaries. I've also performed a few more unusual events, including a dog wedding and a funeral. In short, let's talk about your plan. Some of the best events I've been hired for are the ones where people have come to me with their ideas and we've worked together to make it work. You can reach out to me here.

MENTORING FOR MAGICIANS

Twenty years in the magic business means I’ve seen every mistake a magician can make, and made many of them myself! And that experience puts me in the unique position of being able to mentor magicians and other performers, and help them to fast track their way to success.

Most magicians never find clarity on what they want from their magic. Not because they lack ambition, but because they’re trying to do it all alone.

So, let’s start with a conversation! I won’t sell you a business in a box, because you can’t copy your way to success.

Instead I’ll guide you to achieve your goals – whether that’s turning pro, entering a new market, or even just refining your style. If you’re looking for a quick fix, this probably isn’t for you. If you’re ready to be challenged, let’s talk.

Get in touch today

magic mentor ed giving a magic lecture in the USA

Performing my lecture for magicians in the USA

HOW MAGICIAN MENTORING WORKS

Once you’ve got in touch, we’ll schedule a ~20 minute call (phone / video).

No pressure, and no pitch. It’s just a short chat to see if we’re a fit.

Here’s what we can work on:

Career trajectory – What does success look like for you? We’ll start from there, then work backwards.
Pricing strategy – Stop undercharging, and instead charge enough to respect your time, and your performance skills.
Client positioning – Finding the right audiences, venues, and gigs that suit your style of performance, and positioning you as the perfect choice.
Routine selection – Cut the party tricks and build a set that justifies professional rates.
Professional standards – Contracts, deposits, communication, reliability. The boring, but necessary stuff that turns you into a pro performer.

Looking for an insight into my thinking on magic? Check this out from the blog:

25 Tips for New Magicians

How to Learn Magic (or anything else!)

Get in touch today

MAGIC LESSONS

Maybe you recently saw a magician, and thought to yourself, I would love to learn that‽ Maybe you’re fascinated by how things works, and want to discover the hidden secrets of magic? Maybe you would love to have the confidence to entertain people at parties or even just casually amongst friends? Whatever your reason for wanting to learn magic, you’re in the right place! With time you could be getting incredible reactions like below:

1 to 1 Lessons Online or In Person

In today’s world, we often skim the surface of things. We’re distracted by smartphones that give us instant answers. The world of magic is unique in that it’s secrets to this day remain hidden. I know that you can search on YouTube for magic techniques, but trust me when I tell you those are not the real hidden secrets of magic.

If you’re serious about studying magic, then I invite you to reach out to me. Magic can be a fascinating hobby, or the start of new lifelong passion.

Here are your options:

Online lessons – Most of the lessons I do these days take place online. It’s convenient for both of us, and once you’ve gone through my few recommendations to set up you space for a successful lesson, it will be like I’m there with you.
Live in-person lessons – If you’re keen to learn, and happy to travel to me, then I can also provide lessons in person. If you’re located too far away, I’ll be happy to recommend another magician nearby.
Online resources – If you would prefer to go it alone, I have a variety of online materials and curated recommendations to support your learning journey at your own pace. Visit edsumner.com/magicians to get started.

GET IN TOUCH TODAY

6 REASONS TO LEARN MAGIC

UNIQUE HOBBY

Learning magic sets you apart, offering a unique and fascinating hobby.

SOCIAL SKILLS

Magic helps develop communication crucial for engaging with others.

CONFIDENCE

Performing in front of an audience can increase self-esteem.

PROBLEM SOLVING

Involves understanding perspectives and human psychology.

CREATIVITY

Magic pushes you to think outside the box, and create!

DEDICATION

The practice necessary to perfect magic tricks teaches persistence.

And here’s why I’m the perfect magician for you

20 YEARS +

I don’t just bring tricks, I bring years of professional events experience.

TAILORED

Tailored for adult and young adult learners, making magic accessible & enjoyable.

PERSONALISED

I offer personalised feedback and guidance, ensuring you progress at your own pace.

WORTH KNOWING

I only book in lessons between Monday and Thursday.

I only take on students age 13 +

A FEW MAGIC LESSON FAQs

What materials will I need to start learning magic? Expand

Initially, you won’t need much. If you’re interested in close up magic, then just a deck of cards and a few coins will be a great way to start. As you progress, I’ll give you advice on additional props and that you can purchase to enhance your journey. These are not expensive, unless you want to purchase more premium props.

How often should I practice magic to become proficient? Expand

Regular practice is key to mastering magic. Ideally, practising for at 15 minutes a day can lead to noticeable improvement. Regular practice is more important than lengthy, cram sessions. It’s also really important to perform magic. That’s how you really learn, by doing it! In fact, I often think of myself as more of a magic mentor or guide, than a teacher! In fact, I recently spoke about this at The Magic Circle. You can find out more about that in this podcast episode.

What can I expect from my first magic lesson? Expand

Your first lesson will involve a short assessment of where you currently are with magic. If you’re a complete beginner, we’ll start from the beginning. I’ll introduce you to some of the fundamentals of magic, including basic techniques and the principle. It’s designed to give you a taste of what magic can offer, without diving too far into anything too complex. You’ll walk away with at least one trick that you can start practising immediately.

Do I need any prior experience in learning magic? Expand

No prior experience is required to begin learning magic. Whether you are completely new to the art or have dabbled a bit on your own, the lessons are designed to accommodate all skill levels. We’ll start with a short performance so that I can see where you’re at. We can then either begin the basics and gradually build up to more complex techniques, or we can polish your pre-existing routines and make them even more impactful.

YOUR INCREDIBLE EVENT IS
JUST A FEW STEPS AWAY

1. CONNECT

It’s easy to get in touch with me, either:

email ↓

ed@edsumner.com

call ↓

07792 129 828

or fill in an enquiry form.

2. DISCUSS

During a short phone or video call, we’ll talk about your event and your initial ideas. Don’t worry, if you’re not sure. I’ve helped to plan many events so I can advise on the best use of magic and other events entertainment.

3. AGREE

Once all the details are agreed, I’ll send you a booking confirmation and ask you to make the first payment which confirms your date in my calendar. Then it’s time to start looking forward to your big event.

4. ENJOY

I’ll check in with you in the week before your event, and on the day of the event. All you need to do now is enjoy the magic, mind reading and conversational comedy.

GET IN TOUCH

I’m always excited to hear about your plans, and where you see magic fitting in with your event. Complete the form below and I’ll get back to you very soon.

ed@edsumner.com

07792 129 828