So, what is Gigsalad?
GigSalad is an online marketplace that connects entertainers and event service providers with people looking to book talent for weddings, parties, corporate events, and more. Think of it as the Airbnb for entertainers—but instead of renting out a spare room, you’re offering your skills and talents.
Founded in 2007, GigSalad has become one of the largest entertainment booking platforms in North America, serving event planners, party hosts, and anyone in need of something special to elevate their event.
What Kind of Gigs Are Available on GigSalad?
GigSalad supports a wide range of talents and services. Categories include:
- Musicians & Bands (soloists, DJs, jazz bands, cover bands)
- Performers (magicians, dancers, clowns, impersonators)
- Speakers & Comedians
- Event Services (photographers, face painters, bartenders, event planners)
- Unique Acts (fire eaters, Santa Claus impersonators, puppeteers)
If you’ve got a marketable talent and can bring the wow factor to events, there’s likely a category for you.
How Does GigSalad Work?
Here’s a step-by-step overview of how to get started:
- Create a Profile:
Sign up and create a profile showcasing your services. This is your storefront, so include high-quality photos, videos, descriptions, and testimonials if you have them. - Choose a Membership Plan:
GigSalad offers a free basic plan and paid memberships (starting around $20/month) that provide better visibility, lower booking fees, and access to more leads. - Receive Leads:
Once your profile is live, you’ll start receiving gig requests from potential clients in your area. - Submit Quotes:
You can respond to gig leads by submitting customized quotes. Include your rate, what’s included, and why you’re the best fit. - Get Booked and Paid:
After a client accepts your quote, you’re booked! GigSalad handles the payment processing and deposits your earnings directly after the event.
How Much Can You Make on GigSalad?
Your earnings depend on your niche, experience, location, and how well you market yourself. Here’s a rough idea of what freelancers report:
- Musicians: $200–$1000+ per gig
- Magicians/Performers: $150–$800
- Photographers: $300–$1500
- Speakers: $500–$3000+
GigSalad takes a booking fee (ranging from 2.5% to 8% depending on your plan), which is lower than many other platforms. With a strong profile and good client reviews, it’s possible to build a solid side income stream—or even go full-time.
Pros of Using GigSalad
✅ Targeted Audience: People come to GigSalad ready to book—meaning higher conversion rates than social media marketing alone.
✅ Professional Platform: Secure payments, verified reviews, and messaging tools help build client trust.
✅ Flexibility: You choose your availability, pricing, and which gigs to accept.
✅ Low Upfront Costs: The free plan is functional, and the paid plan is affordable compared to other lead platforms.
✅ Great for Niche Talents: Unique talents (like caricature artists or medieval reenactors) have their own space to shine.
Cons of Using GigSalad
❌ Local Competition: In larger cities, competition can be stiff. You’ll need a standout profile to land gigs.
❌ Booking Fee: Although it’s lower than many platforms, the fee still takes a cut from your earnings.
❌ Not for Everyone: If your skill isn’t event-related (e.g., freelance writing or web design), this may not be the right fit.
Tips for Succeeding on GigSalad
Invest in a Strong Profile – Use professional photos, a promotional video, and detailed service descriptions.
Gather Reviews Early – Ask clients for feedback after every event. Positive reviews boost your ranking.
Respond Quickly to Leads – Faster responses increase your chances of getting booked.
Set Competitive Prices – Start with modest rates and adjust as you gain credibility.
Niche Down – Focus on a unique style or type of event to stand out from the crowd.
Talk to Others Who Have Used Gigsalad
Reddit and other forums are a great place to connect with others who’ve used Gigsalad. Simply search for “Gigsalad Reddit” via Google, and check out what others are saying. You can also try to search for posts on sites such as Tiktok and Facebook.