Once you know the kind of speaker you want, the practical questions start: what it costs, how far ahead to book, and what to agree on before the date. This guide covers what to plan for when booking a pro-life speaker, with Sydna Massé’s own terms as a worked example.
How far ahead to book
Popular banquet seasons fill early, and many speakers hold only a limited number of dates. Start the conversation as soon as your board sets a date. For Sydna, plan to book 6 to 12 months ahead.
Budget: fee plus travel
Most speakers quote a speaking fee plus travel costs. When you build your banquet budget, ask for both and ask who books the travel. Sydna’s speaking fee is $3,500. She books her own travel, and the hosting group reimburses Ramah International for travel costs. She travels from Northwest Arkansas.
Questions to ask before you book
- How long is the talk, and can it be adjusted? Sydna’s talk runs 30 to 50 minutes and can be adjusted to fit your program.
- Who makes the fundraising ask? Sydna makes the ask herself, as part of her message.
- Will you tailor the message to our center? Hosts say Sydna asks about the center’s mission and goals ahead of time and weaves them into her keynote.
- What do you need on stage? Sydna has no special stage requirements.
- Will you have books available? Sydna’s books are available to the hosting group at a discounted price, and the group can resell them at the event at retail price.
- Will you meet our board or donors? One host wrote that Sydna “made a point to speak to our Board of Directors and to gain insight into our center,” and others note she stays afterward to sign books and talk with guests.
- Can we see full recordings and references? Watch the speaking samples and read the references.
What to send in your first inquiry
A clear first message gets a faster answer. Include your organization, the event type, your preferred date, the city and state, and your estimated attendance. An inquiry is a starting point, not a confirmed booking.
After you book
Share your center’s story, the evening’s schedule, and your giving goal with the speaker well before the event, and confirm travel details. The more the speaker knows about your ministry, the more the message can point guests to your work.
Ready to ask about a date?
Read the event planner FAQ, then send an event inquiry to check Sydna’s availability.