LAS VEGAS — Baskow Talent/Las Vegas Speakers Bureau, a celebrity and talent broker company based in Las Vegas, is celebrating its 45th anniversary.
Jaki Baskow, Baskow Talent/Las Vegas Speakers Bureau CEO and Owner, remembers leaving her home in New Jersey in 1976 with $300 in her pocket determined to make it in Las Vegas. And make it she has. One of her most recent accolades was being named a Top Woman of Influence in Las Vegas by My Vegas Magazine.
She has helped companies worldwide create memorable trade show experiences with world-renowned speakers and entertainers.
Baskow has hired and produced events featuring A-list celebrities, past presidents, dignitaries, authors, entertainers, game show hosts and others. She’s forged longtime relationships with Hollywood elite, prominent politicians, business leaders and authors, earning her a spot as one of Discovery Channel’s Top 10 Star Brokers in the World.
She remembers a time when exhibitors only wanted models and spokespeople for their booths. Those days have changed, she said. Today, she has organized Cirque Du Soleil-type performers to entertain in booths, costumed characters on stilts, LED-lit bands, and more. “It’s all about creating a ‘wow,” she said.
Podcasts on the trade show floor have become extremely popular and not only can Baskow arrange this, but she has hosts she uses to interview stakeholders as well. “A podcast is a successful way to extend the reach of your show. The recordings can be pushed out all year long,” Baskow said.
Related. Las Vegas’ Wealth of Unique Settings Helps Organizers Expand the Trade Show Experience
Telly Savalas Helped Baskow Get Her Start
“My hallmarks — creativity, attention to detail and putting my clients first — have helped me thrive for 45 years,” says Baskow. “It’s been such an honor to help meeting planners and trade show organizers make sure their goals are achieved.”
Famed actor Telly Savalas helped Baskow early on in her career. Kojak, the 1970s crime drama starring Savalas in the title role, was filmed in Las Vegas and Baskow was tasked with finding caterers, locations, and extras for the show.
“Telly saw I made things happen. No matter what he needed, I accomplished it. He encouraged me to open my own talent agency,” enthused Baskow.
Ol’ Blue Eyes Opens the Door
Savalas wasn’t the only celebrity who mentored Baskow’s start. She remembers being at Caesars Palace with models she hired for a golf tournament.
Frank Sinatra was there shooting a commercial. Unbeknownst to her, a part-time actor she had cast for a role served as Sinatra’s valet. He introduced Baskow to Sinatra. “Frank walked me into the sales department to meet the directors and said, ‘Use this kid’s company.’ I became one of Caesars’ out-of-house event planners and that relationship continues 45 years later,” describes Baskow.
Frequently referred to as the “Queen of Las Vegas,” Baskow has produced events and trade shows that range from small, intimate gatherings to huge conventions including the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, retail chains and franchises and events like the IBM Golden Circle.
“Not only have I booked some of the biggest talent and speakers, but also acts that aren’t as well-known but are still effective, at a fraction of the price,” Baskow explains.
Reach Jaki Baskow at (702) 547-5119 or jaki@jakibaskow.com
