You want your child’s special day to be perfect, so choosing a company to provide a princess for your little one’s party can be a daunting task.
Here are 9 tips to help you find a superb princess party company. Whether you’re near us in the Denver, Colorado area or across the country, these simple tips will help you make your child’s special day a magical one.
- Talent: Will the performer bring the princess to life?
Look for professionally trained singers and actresses; top talent will make the difference between a pretty girl in a costume and a magical experience. Read performers’ bios and ask questions about them. Check which characters performers are approved to play. Even the most talented, beautiful actresses are better suited to play some characters over others, so choose a company that is selective about which actresses play which characters.
- Costumes and Wigs: Will they preserve the magic?
Look through photos of costumes and wigs. Children notice details, so find a company dedicated to preserving the magic down to every last stitch and accessory. Wigs in particular make a huge difference, so pay extra attention to wig quality.
- Hidden Fees: What are they really charging you?
Look out for hidden fees. Ask about travel or fuel fees or extra costs for larger attendance. Some companies add a surcharge on a per child basis; if you’re throwing a big bash, those numbers will add up fast.
- Employees: Are they trained and well-treated?
For consistency and quality, choose a company with employees – not independent contractors. Contractors legally cannot receive training, costumes, makeup guides, supplies, or even guidelines for their visit. Be cautious of companies that advertise training performers and providing costumes but use contractors. The company may be misclassifying employees, taking advantage of its performers through taxes, insurance, and worker rights. Happy performers always create the most magical experience for your little one.
- Loyalty Rewards: Will you be recognized as a loyal customer?
Find a company that rewards you for your loyalty. If you decide to book again, you deserve recognition as a repeat customer. You’ll save money and feel comfortable booking again with a company that values your business.
- Security: Are they protecting your personal information and looking out for your children?
Your credit card number and personal information are private and should remain that way. Look for a company that respects the privacy of your personal information. Asking for your credit card number over the phone is a red flag; you never know what the person on the other end may be doing with your credit card information. For your children’s safety, make certain the company does background checks on all performers. If you’re not sure, ask.
- Taxes: Are they cheating Uncle Sam?
Choose a company that’s paying all appropriate taxes. Your party may be marginally cheaper if a company operates under the table, but when they’re eventually caught, they could be shut down – leaving you without a princess for the big day.
- Insurance: What happens if there’s an accident?
Make sure the company and its performers are insured. If something in your home is damaged or (fairies forbid) a child is hurt, you could be left footing the bill if the company is uninsured.
- Cancellations: Are you able to cancel? Do they have a reputation of canceling?
Check the company’s cancellation and rescheduling policies. If you have to reschedule, will you be charged? Will you get your money back if you have to cancel? Ask how many times the company has cancelled. A no-show princess could ruin your child’s birthday celebration.
Follow these 9 simple tips, and choosing a princess company for your child’s special day will be a breeze!
