Cam Sullings is one of Canberra’s most recommended MCs. Photo: File.
If you have invested heaps of time and effort into a special event and want to make sure nothing goes off the rails, you will understand the importance of a good Master of Ceremonies, someone with the right personality and style to be the official host for your event.
A Master of Ceremonies keeps your event on schedule and keeps your audience engaged. They also introduce performers or speakers, providing a seamless transition between the various stages that an event may have. This can be especially important for events that go for a long time with many different scheduled components that must fit within a schedule.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a Master of Ceremonies, and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great Master of Ceremonies?
Choosing the right Master of Ceremonies can make or break your event. It can also take the worry out of keeping your event on track. That includes for weddings, conferences, product launches, official openings, awards nights, fundraising events and gala dinners.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a Master of Ceremonies.
- Experience. You’ll want a Master of Ceremonies who is experienced and confident about their role and how to keep your event on time. Check online and discuss experience with the Master of Ceremonies before choosing one.
- Personality. While you’ll want a Master of Ceremonies who is positive, energetic and engaging, you won’t want one who acts like they’re the star of the show. Find one who suits your event and has experience in running similar special occasions.
- Cost. There’s no standard fee for a Master of Ceremonies so compare costs and choose one that suits your budget.
- Expectations. A great Master of Ceremonies welcomes guests, introduces speakers and warms up the audience. They also keep things running smoothly and maintain audience interest. Finally, they wrap the event up. Make sure you and your chosen Master of Ceremonies have a common understanding of the role they’ll play.
- Delivery style and fit. No two Master of Ceremonies are the same. Select one who fits the aim and style of your event. This includes one with similar values. You’ll want a Master of Ceremonies who understands the brief and sticks to it.
The best Master of Ceremonies in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Region Canberra's editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Region Canberra and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Cam Sullings
Host, presenter, and conference facilitator Cam Sullings is a highly experienced Master of Ceremonies for a wide range of events. Cam has presented on corporate, community and sports stages for almost 30 years. A full-time broadcaster for decades, Cam is still on air every Saturday on Canberra's Mix 106.3.
Cam is one of Canberra’s most experienced event professionals, with a focus on corporate events, awards evenings, product launches and charity events. Enthusiastic and professional, Cam always holds pre-event meetings to determine expectations and objectives. He conducts pre-event research and prepares well so events run smoothly, and audiences remain engaged.
On Google, Evolve SC wrote, "Cam hosted our cricket clubs' 40th anniversary/presentation night, and exceeded our expectations. Cam went above and beyond to understand the history of our club, ensured names were pronounced correctly and the night flowed perfectly. It was quite an important event for our club, and it was made all the better by having Cam host the night. We couldn't recommend Cam highly enough!"
Michael Bower Celebrant & MC
One of the things that makes Michael Bower so good at what he does it because he loves it. He brings a passion and a warmth to each event, whether it be a wedding, a funeral or as a general MC.
"Michael is absolutely amazing! Michael was our celebrant and MC for our wedding of over 150 people. He was an absolute pleasure to deal with," Chase and Elizabeth say on Google.
Chris White Celebrant
Chris White is a master of ceremonies who provides the energy and the experience to keep any formal, charity ball, engagement party or corporate event on schedule without taking the spotlight.
Skilled, organised and professional, Chris White Celebrant connects the dots and makes sure everything works smoothly on the big day.
"Chris is simply an outstanding Celebrant! He went above and beyond to make our ceremony absolutely perfect for us. He is not only professional but a genuinely lovely person," Laura says on Google.
If you’re looking for more information on running events in Canberra, you might like our articles on the best event planners, best function venues, best sound and lighting companies and best catering services Canberra has to offer.
For other planning needs, check out our articles on the best wedding planners, the best marquee hire in Canberra, the best bands for bookings and events in Canberra, the best florists in Canberra and the best bus, limousine & hummer hire companies in Canberra.
Your experience with Master of Ceremonies in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the Master of Ceremonies listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right Master of Ceremonies?
When looking for the right Master of Ceremonies, it's best to figure out the vibe you are going for with your event, then find someone who suits that. Conduct research to determine experience against the type of event you’re running. Check out their website and online presence. Also check online reviews. A meeting with the Master of Ceremonies will help you decide if they’re a good match for your event.
How much do Master of Ceremonies cost?
This may very depending on the event type as well as its duration, so it’s best to ask for a written, detailed quote. The experience of the Master of Ceremonies and aspects such as the location can also effect the price. If travel is required, for example, the Master of Ceremonies will likely want to be paid for the time needed to get to and from your event.
What traits should I look for in a Master of Ceremonies?
While a great Master of Ceremonies has personality and style, being a great performer on stage isn’t always enough. A Master of Ceremonies is skilled at managing events so nothing is missed and schedules are kept. They need to be able to think on their feet and manage a crowd professionally. They should also adhere to the feel of the event. A kids birthday party has a different general mood to an engagement party.
What should I avoid when choosing a Master of Ceremonies?
While an amazing Master of Ceremonies can be a drawcard for your event, it’s important they don’t take over and become the star of the show. They might have a high profile but will understand that this is your event, not their event. Find someone whose work and reviews indicate that they are actually suitable for your event.
How do I hire a Master of Ceremonies?
Some Master of Ceremonies work independently and have their own websites and a social media presence. Some work through a speaker bureau or entertainment company. These are organisations with hands-on experience in matching the right talent to your audience, event and budget. If you’re using an event management company, chances are they can source a Master of Ceremonies for you but make sure you independently research them before going with the company's choice.
