LAS VEGAS — Baskow Talent/Las Vegas Speakers Bureau, a Las Vegas-based celebrity and talent brokerage firm, celebrates 45 yearsth birthday.
Jaki Baskow, CEO and owner of Baskow Talent/Las Vegas Speakers Bureau, recalls his departure She arrived home in New Jersey in 1976 with $300 in her pocket, determined to make it in Las Vegas. And she did. One of her most recent accolades was being named one of the most influential women in Las Vegas by My Vegas magazine.
She has helped companies around the world create memorable trade show experiences with world-renowned speakers and performers.
Baskow has booked and produced events featuring A-list celebrities, former presidents, dignitaries, authors, entertainers, game show hosts and more. She has built long-standing relationships with Hollywood elite, top politicians, business leaders and authors, earning her a spot on Discovery Channel’s Top 10 Celebrity Brokers in the World.
She remembers a time when exhibitors only wanted models and spokespeople for their booths. Those days have changed, she says. Today, she organizes Cirque du Soleil-style shows to entertain booths, costumed characters on stilts, LED-lit bands and more. “It’s about creating a party atmosphere.” ‘“Wow,” she said.
Trade show podcasts have become extremely popular, and Baskow not only hosts them, but also uses hosts to interview stakeholders. “A podcast is a great way to extend the reach of your show. Recordings can be distributed throughout the year,” Baskow said.
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Telly Savalas helped Baskow get started
“My characteristics – creativity, attention to detail and customer focus – have allowed me to thrive for 45 years,” says Baskow. “It’s been a true honor to help meeting planners and trade show organizers ensure their goals are met.”
Famed actor Telly Savalas helped Baskow early in her career. Kojak, the 1970s crime drama in which Savalas played the title role, was filmed in Las Vegas, and Baskow was tasked with finding caterers, locations and extras for the show.
“Telly saw that I was making things happen. Whatever he needed, I did it. He encouraged me to open my own talent agency,” Baskow enthuses.
Old blue eyes open the door
Savalas wasn’t the only celebrity to mentor Baskow’s early days. She recalls being at Caesars Palace with models she had hired for a golf tournament.
Frank Sinatra was there to shoot a commercial. Unbeknownst to her, a part-time actor she had cast in a role was acting as her valet. It was he who introduced Baskow to Sinatra. “Frank brought me into the sales department to meet with the directors and said, ‘Use this kid.’ I became one of Caesars’ outdoor event planners, and that relationship has endured 45 years later,” Baskow says.
Often referred to as the “Queen of Las Vegas,” Baskow has hosted events and trade shows ranging from small, intimate gatherings to large 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 lesser-known but nonetheless effective acts, at a fraction of the price,” Baskow explains.
Contact Jaki Baskow at (702) 547-5119 or jaki@jakibaskow.com