As this is the first post, I thought we should start at the beginning; booking your entertainment. When the inspiration hits you that it is time for a party, that's the time to get moving. Your motivation may be your child's birthday, a company picnic, a special event or even a block party; but the process originates from that seed.
There are several steps in the early stages that are inter-dependant. Primarily date, times and entertainment. They must be balanced against each other before you plow ahead with decisions that are difficult to change. I have had many party moms call me after they have set dates and times, mailed out invitations and purchased matching plates, table cloths and napkins for their "Pony Party" only to find out that there is no one available to give pony rides at their kid's birthday party!
The best piece of advice I can give you right now is...."BEFORE you mail out invitations, book your entertainment!"
You may feel a false sense of security because lots of party businesses show up when you google "child birthday party" "petting zoo" or "pony rides". A lot of what pops up are "link farms", basically websites comprised of the same lists of clowns, magicians, inflatable companies and other entertainers that may or may not still be around and are used primarily to generate page hits to sell advertising. I have been in the children's party planning industry for almost 20 years and have seen many businesses come and go in the Phoenix, Arizona market. Some folks seem to think that doing kids parties is easy money and soon learn that it takes a professional commitment and requires working EVERY Saturday, Sunday and Holiday FOREVER! I have no doubt you have seen a proliferation of inflatable bounce companies in your area as well. Despite the number of businesses serving your area, there a few things to keep in mind.
1) Most are very small "Mom and Pop" operations that rent moon jumps on the side.
2) They may be slow to respond to your inquiries because they have "real jobs" during the week.
3) Many go out of business in the first year or two.
4) Most have limited inventories and popular items book first.
5) Some unscrupulous businesses will take a "better" job over yours if they have the chance.
5) Even when equipment is available, there are constraints on delivery schedules.
6) Remember every one else in your town is planning their party on the same day as you!
So, once you have a date or two in mind; contact your local professional children's entertainment company and determine what type of entertainment is available for your preferred times. Once you have decided what you want, reserve it. Now you can work on your invitations!
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