By
eHow Parties & Entertaining Editor
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Step1
Visit your local magic shop to see what illusionists are available in your area. Often, many magic shop owners are themselves practitioners of the trade and can be contracted for private appearances.
Step2
Attend a magic show by local talent to see if the act is what you like. There are a variety of different illusion acts appropriate to different audiences and you should know what you are getting ahead of time.
Step3
Talk with the illusionist before you hire him. Make sure they understand exactly what kind of magic tricks you would like them to perform are within their skill set.
Step4
Make sure a price is firmly set before the act occurs. You don't want to end up with something that is expensive beyond the budget you have planned.
Step5
Have the illusionist come to your facility or home ahead of time so they understand the physical space they will be working in. Having a good diagram of the physical location can't hurt either.
Step6
Remember that a good illusionist is a professional and you should feel the job is being taken seriously when you contract it. If you feel hesitant about the illusionist's competency, you should probably rethink your decision.