I had my own event "planet pop" last november 2005.

This is how i went about payment. Have total amount for the event before hand in cash & nothing but cash.

Some Tips and Suggetions when throwing your own event:

• Event space rental fee
• DJ fee
• Cash prize for contest performers/guests
• dining fee
• performance fee
• reimbursement for travel expenses
• hotel fee
• have travel to & from event
• Have money on side for any emergencies ( this you must have )
• Pay guest performers as soon as they get in town
• All fees (before event starts)
• Event space -(I got a contract in writing wich was great)
• Don't ever depend on the turn out of the event. (That will lead you to the poor house ).
• Try to get sponsors, the more the better.
• Paying it out your pocket is very risky!!

Article written by "Mysterio" referenced from Mr.Wiggles.biz