Pricing Live Event Gigs During Super Bowl Week
Super Bowl week presents unique pricing challenges for live event professionals as demand skyrockets and logistics become more complex. Setting fair rates while accounting for the increased costs of working during this high-pressure period requires careful consideration of multiple factors. This article breaks down proven strategies for pricing gigs during Super Bowl week, featuring insights from industry experts who have successfully managed events during this lucrative but demanding time.
Set Fair Rates and Include per Diems
For high-demand weekends like Super Bowl week, we price day rates based on the complexity and skill level required for the event, then separately account for travel days and overtime to protect both the team and the company. Travel days are billed at a reduced rate to cover time and expenses without overcharging, and overtime kicks in after standard hours to prevent burnout. One clause that has saved us repeatedly is a per diem for meals and incidentals when staff are traveling or working extended shifts. On one event with over 500 staff, including per diems upfront ensured no confusion, kept the team energized, and prevented any hidden costs from cutting into our margins.
Use Surge Tiers With Transparent Live Rules
Demand spikes hour by hour during Super Bowl week, so prices should rise when requests flood in and return to normal when demand cools. A clear surge plan can use set tiers linked to inquiry volume, time slots, and staff strain. Caps keep pricing fair while still protecting limited crew and gear.
Public rules build trust and reduce pushback at checkout. Real-time tools can post live rates so buyers can choose off-peak slots for savings. Set your surge pricing rules today to match demand and safeguard your profit.
Offer Clear Bundles With Optional Extras
Bundling gear, staff, and transport into clear packages cuts guesswork for buyers. Set good, better, and best tiers that show what is included and what is not. All-in pricing shortens approvals and reduces billing noise after the show.
Pre-set add-ons let clients customize without slowing down. Service level promises, like response times and spare units, can be built into each bundle. Create bundled packages now to make buying simple and to lift average order value.
Add Contingency Surcharges and Fair Cancellations
Weather, travel chaos, and last minute schedule shifts are common that week, so price the risk. A simple contingency fee can fund rain plans, backup power, and standby crew. Scaled cancellation terms based on notice time keep both sides fair.
Clear language on force majeure, refunds, and reschedule windows avoids fights when plans change. Coordination with event insurance helps align payouts with your fees. Add a risk and contingency section to every quote today.
Tie Fees to Outcomes Clients Value
Hourly rates hide the real value of a Super Bowl week activation. Pricing that ties to results like foot traffic, social reach, and sponsor leads better links fee to impact. Packages can include deliverables such as audience size targets, media capture, and branded moments.
Case studies and benchmarks help anchor the fee to outcomes rather than minutes on site. A bonus or uplift can reward hitting stretch goals that matter to the brand. Build a value-based offer that maps pricing to outcomes clients care about today.
Charge an Exclusivity Premium for Lockouts
Blackout dates during Super Bowl week block other work, so an exclusivity premium pays for that hold. Rates should reflect the size of the lockout, the radius of the venue, and the length of time gear and crew are reserved. Clear non-compete terms protect brand separation and avoid mixed messages.
Priority access and guaranteed standby support can be added to make the premium feel worth it. A written schedule and release clause keep expectations clean and stop last minute conflicts. Add an exclusivity premium now to cover the true cost of keeping your calendar closed.