Managing your Holiday Stress

In one year's time I plan/coordinate/advise on/or work at over 100 events. Here are some tips I've come up with help make your holiday party season a little less stressful.

1. There is no "perfect" gift. Each year I think I buy less and less gifts. I've come to the realization that my parents really don't need more "stuff." I make a trip home to PA to visit. I help out with meals. My father usually has a big project that's been waiting to be finished. I only buy gifts for my Nephews because they are young and are super into the whole gift thing. If you have a super picky person on your list don't stress because more than likely they won't appreciate what you got them anyway. So, don't waste time picking out the perfect gift. Get them a gift card to a store they like.
2. Avoid the rush. What gifts I do buy I get online. If you are lucky enough to have a week day off; do your shopping then. If you have to do it during the weekend, go early.
3. You do not have to entertain this season. There are 100's of catering companies, banquet halls, and restaurants that would love to organize and run your party for you. I don't have to remind you that it's been a rough few years for us in the entertainment industry. So you might be surprised how easy and inexpensive it is to have someone else do it.
4. Get some sleep. Friends tell me that they only sleep 4 or 5 hours a night and then they wonder why they are stressed. Unless you are the parent of a newborn, I don't see why you would choose to do this to yourself. I know, it doesn't seem like a choice but there has to be 1 or 2 hours you can squeeze out of something else and hit the hay.
5. Make some "me" time. My Mother delivers the mail in the mountains of Pennsylvania. Not only do the holidays bring the heaviest mail it also brings some of the worst weather. She has driven between 70 and 100 miles a day, 5 or 6 days a week, depending on what route she was working at the time. My Mother loves to read. So she makes sure she gets in a chapter a night of whatever book she is reading. We knew growing up (and still today) if Mom is reading, leave her alone. She won't be long and she'll be in a much better mood if you let her have her "me" time.
6. Get some exercise. During the Holiday season our exercise routines seem to get hung up with the decorations. If you are like me, you will spend countless hours in the car going from event to event. Luckily I have two large dogs that demand to be taking on walks. If you don't have any dogs, come walk mine, its great exercise.
7. Its not life and death. Unless you really under-cook some tainted meat, remember its not life or death. Relax, enjoy, have a beverage.

Edd Fairman is a stand-up comedy magician that specializes in corporate and college events. You can find out more about him at http://www.wizardofsorts.com

Top 7 Reasons to have a Magician at Your Next Event

7. Save Money- A magician in comparison to many other forms of entertainment is actually cheaper than most. A band (because it requires many performers) can really become very expensive. Most "speakers" are way over priced because they market almost exclusively to the corporate market.

6. Universal- Magic is loved by people of all ages and social standing. Not everyone loves rock, hip hop, or polka but almost everyone loves magic.

5. Flexible Size- Either a magic show or a walk around magician can fill a stadium or fit in a living room. No only does it fit in different size venues it also fits different styles of parties, different energy levels, and even different noise levels.

4. Customizable- Most magicians, including your author, can customize their show to fit your specific message, theme, or event.

3. Less stress- An experienced magician can help you with planning suggestions, venue recommendations and more.

2. Different- Shake things up with the wonderment that a magician can provide. A DJ, band, or speaker is so blasé.

1. Memorable- Your guests will be talking for a long time about the great time they had at your event. You can make a great impression on your client. When you have someone at your event that can do the impossible, imagine what your client will think of you.

Edd Fairman is a Chicago Magician who does magic for corporate and private parties. He specializes in making you look good through an awesome show, great communication through the booking process, and logistical help.