With the industry slowly returning to pre-pandemic levels, many butlers are finding it more difficult to secure regular, well-paid jobs. However, some of the biggest agencies still seem to be thriving.
Here, we take a look behind the scenes at some of the top agencies, including Butler Direct, to see how much butlers get paid compared to their bosses.
Butlers in York
York has earned its reputation as an incredible hen party location. An eclectic mix of trendy bars, real ale pubs, and fantastic nightclubs invite revellers to celebrate in this picturesque, ancient city.
How much does it cost to book a private cocktail lesson in York? What's a realistic figure for the popular party destination, without the inflated prices which can be found in other UK tourist hotspots.
For example, if you wanted 16 guests, a cocktail lesson from a 'semi-naked butler' in April 2023, with the ingredients included, Butler Direct said it would cost around £525.
Other companies quoted up to £680 for the same service. Some of these rates were at least three-times higher than the butler's take-home rate - which generally came to around £140 for the evening. This on top of a 35p per mile fuel allowance and the cost of ingredients.
Are there any fair, private entertainment companies?
Newer agencies like Butler Direct use a refined process which makes things slightly different. Even though you’ll still need to fork out at least £500 for a private cocktail masterclass, your butler will receive at least 80% of the final price you pay. This works out to a £400 flat rate for the butler.
If you’re thinking about booking cocktail lessons – because not everyone wants to be looking up cocktail recipes before their hen do – it’s worth checking out the drinks included.
If you’re looking for a little bit more flexibility, you’ll need to ask the agency if you can choose your cocktails in advance.
How much should I be paying?
When we asked for quotes for a two-hour slot with a butler in York, the flaws in the system became even clearer. It came to light that entertainment agencies in the UK happily take the lion’s share for the booking, even if one butler did all the work.
The lowest quote was £150 and the highest around £180, with Butler Direct asking for a similar total price of £175.
Even though these prices might seem alike, the difference lies in the split between the agency cut and the amount that your butler gets paid. Many agencies paid butlers a flat rate of just £80 for two hours – whereas Butler Direct paid butlers closer to £125 for a two-hour booking.
These widespread discrepancies are at least partially responsible for the large numbers of private entertainers now choosing to work on a self-employed basis.
How much does a life model cost?
Butler Direct charge £250 for a life model booking, which overall was lower than their competitor at £300. However the main difference between the two is that the butler would take home £200.
How do I book a naked butler fairly?
With the nature of their work considered, butlers deserve to receive more from their employers. If you’re thinking of hiring a naked butler for your next big birthday bash or hen do, it’s crucial to find the right company first.
It's clear that 'butlers in the buff' earn significantly more working through Butler Direct, even though the company charges similar prices to its competitors.
However, before booking, make sure you do some of your own research. Call different agencies to make sure you’re paying a fair price – and that your butler will get his fair share, too.
Follow Butler direct on facebook, @ButlerDirect.
