Where Events Go Wrong: Why Cutting Costs on the Keynote Speaker Damages the Whole Day
The Event Equation: Where the Money Goes
It’s common to see big-ticket budgets assigned to:
Catering – Gourmet meals with custom menu cards
The Venue – Iconic locations with sky-high hire fees
Photography – A professional team to document the day
Goodie Bags – Branded mugs, notebooks, and pens
and more…
But when it comes to the speaker? “Can you do it for free exposure?” is still a regular ask.
The Purpose of the Day Matters
Whether it’s a corporate team-building event, a school inspiration day, or a leadership summit, the mission is rarely about how great the cupcakes were. It’s about lasting impact, engagement, and energy.
And that starts, not ends, with the right speaker.
The Cost of Cutting Corners
Hiring a cheap or mismatched speaker can cost you more in the long run:
Audience disengagement – People mentally check out within minutes
Missed momentum – A flat start makes it harder for the rest of the day to catch fire
Brand mismatch – If your speaker’s tone or values don’t align, your message won’t land
Lost opportunity – You’re missing the chance to spark something meaningful in your audience
What a Powerful Speaker Actually Delivers
A speaker doesn’t just “fill the gap between the intro and lunch.” A great keynote:
Sets the emotional tone
Aligns everyone with the event’s purpose
Leaves people talking—not just about what was said, but how they felt
Motivates change—in mindset, in energy, in behaviour
When you book a seasoned, impactful speaker like Anthony Bennett, known as Miracle Man an inspirational keynote speaker from the UK, motivational speaker for schools and corporate events, you’re booking energy, relevance, and connection that ripples throughout the day.
Comparing Two Event Experiences
Event A:
£15k venue
£6k catering
£3k photographer
£500 speaker found last-minute
Event B:
£9k venue
£4k catering
£2k photographer
£3k seasoned keynote speaker aligned with the event’s goals
Which audience leaves buzzing with ideas and motivation?
It’s rarely the one who got Instagram-worthy canapés.
The Keynote Sets the Vibe
Every event has a rhythm and the keynote speaker is the drumbeat. If it’s off, everything feels slightly unbalanced. When done right, it creates a ripple effect that energises breakout sessions, panel discussions, and even casual conversations during coffee breaks.
Book someone who can hold a room, challenge perspectives, and spark movement. Don’t book a bargain-basement monologue.
Event organisers should take the time to review speaker credentials, watch videos of past presentations, and seek recommendations from trusted sources to make an informed decision.
What Makes a Speaker Worth It?
Proven storytelling ability
Tailored message for your audience
Interactive delivery—not death by PowerPoint
Genuine connection—they “get” your mission and values
Emotional resonance—they leave a mark long after the applause ends
If you’re looking to create a moment that matters, book Anthony Bennett – The Miracle Man (SEO: UK resilience speaker, mental health speaker for events, corporate wellbeing keynote).
Final Thought – What Story Will Your Event Tell?
When the day’s done and the lights go down, what will people take home? A tote bag and a cupcake… or a story that stayed with them?
Book the speaker who gives your event a heartbeat. And if you're serious about making impact stick—book Anthony Bennett, the Miracle Man.
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About the author
In businesses, healthcare and schools, Anthony Bennett talks about teamwork, mental health and resilience. He’s given motivational speeches around the world, speaking on his bounce back from multiple near death experiences, earning him the nickname Miracle Man.
Most keynotes should inspire audiences and give them a sense of possibility, but they should also take into account the specific event context. It’s important that the keynote speaker strikes a chord that resonates throughout the conference. The keynote speech delivered by Anthony has the power to affect people’s perspectives, inspire them, and leave them with a sense of hope long after the event has ended.
Best speakers draw upon their extensive knowledge of their field, as well as their unique perspectives, to deliver the best presentations at conferences and corporate events. When a keynote presentation is delivered with passion, drive, and determination, all in attendance are inspired.
