What happens at the event and what is important for me to know?
The characters are professional entertainers that go through detailed screening before performing at parties. The characters have a unique and personalized script for each party, and it is asked that you don't interfere or try to change it to ensure the best experience possible. At the end of each party, the characters will hand out their gifts, if that option is purchased. It is also asked that the birthday cake is brought out/lit towards the end of the party so we can join in on singing Happy Birthday before departing. Performers will contact you directly if there is an emergency with their arrival, specifically if it affects the time. We confirm all parties at the time of the booking, and 7 days before the event. Please be aware of this, if no confirmation is received, we will not add your date. E-mails are responded to as quickly as possible.
Which areas do you service?
Our services are available, but not limited to:
Portland, Milwaukie, Lake Oswego, Clackamas, Gladstone, West Linn, Happy Valley, Beaverton, Tigard, Wilsonville, Canby, Woodburn, Keizer, Salem, McMinnville, Yamhill, Gaston, Forest Grove, Hillsboro, Banks, North Plains, Dalles, Corvallis, Albany, Sandy, Redmond, Bend, Newburg, Cornelius, Tillamook, Seaside, Astoria, Lincoln City, Newport, Silverton, Damascus, Gresham, Scappoose, Vernonia, Saint Helens, Troutdale, Seattle, Vancouver, Camas, Battle Ground, Ridgefield, Kelso, Woodland, Centralia, Olympia, Tumwater, Lakewood, Tacoma, Auburn, Federal Way, Kent, Bellevue, Redmond, Renton, and surrounding areas.
Please be aware a travel fee may be applied if the location is 40 miles outside of the performers base area.
Portland, Milwaukie, Lake Oswego, Clackamas, Gladstone, West Linn, Happy Valley, Beaverton, Tigard, Wilsonville, Canby, Woodburn, Keizer, Salem, McMinnville, Yamhill, Gaston, Forest Grove, Hillsboro, Banks, North Plains, Dalles, Corvallis, Albany, Sandy, Redmond, Bend, Newburg, Cornelius, Tillamook, Seaside, Astoria, Lincoln City, Newport, Silverton, Damascus, Gresham, Scappoose, Vernonia, Saint Helens, Troutdale, Seattle, Vancouver, Camas, Battle Ground, Ridgefield, Kelso, Woodland, Centralia, Olympia, Tumwater, Lakewood, Tacoma, Auburn, Federal Way, Kent, Bellevue, Redmond, Renton, and surrounding areas.
Please be aware a travel fee may be applied if the location is 40 miles outside of the performers base area.
What sets you apart from the competition?
Pinwheel performers go through careful screening for the safety of the children and to be sure their performance is believable as the character. Careful attention is spent to make sure detail of the costumes is as accurate as possible for believability. We try to make prices as affordable as possible so all children have the opportunity to have a magical experience!
Should I call you to book my event?
Please do not call to book an event. We have a form on our "Bookings" page for you to fill out. We prefer to have all appointments made through e-mail so we have all information documented and there are no mistakes. Only call if there is an emergency pertaining to the event we are booked for.
Is you entertainment appropriate for all ages?
Yes, our entertainment is always appropriate for all ages. Our traditional age range is 3-10 years old, but we enjoy any and all engaging events. We provide plenty of activities to entertain both boys and girls. Our performers are available to service a variety of special events and corporate events as well. Our characters love to entertain at schools, festivals, fairs, restaurants, grand openings, sweet sixteens, quinceneras, bar and bat mitzvahs, weddings, private birthdays and more!
Where do you recommend I hold my event?
We recommend parties are held in a home environment, community centers, restaurants, halls, etc. Backyards and parks make for a lovely settings, and we do service to them, however, in the event of rain, extreme heat, or heavy winds, we ask there be an indoor setting as a Plan B.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 3-4 weeks in advance at the latest, but the earlier the better. However, we can accommodate last minute bookings. A last minute booking fee will be applied if the event is booked a week before it is held.
Do you offer refunds?
No. We do not offer refunds because payment is collected on the day of the party. If you are unsatisfied with our services, a discount may be offered, but it is to be discussed with the performers after the scheduled time, and it is asked you do so away from any children.
How do you accept payment?
We accept cash, checks, and credit/debit. Please make checks payable to "Alexis Vanderzanden". Credit/Debit payments are collected through our Square device. Payment can be received at any time during the party. The performers will have a basket with them, and it can be deposited into the basket, or you can pull the performers aside for payment. Please do not give the performers their payment in front of the children.
Is there a fee if I cancel?
No. We understand things happen that may interfere with the party. Please provide at least a weeks notice for cancellations, so we may open your slot for other events.
What if my performer falls ill or is running late?
Performers arrive 15 minutes before they are scheduled to allow time to prepare. Occasionally, things happen such as traffic, weather, costume malfunctions, illnesses, and in the event those happen, you will still get your fully purchased time from the moment they arrive. If a performer is ill, and unable to make it, then you can book us for free for any other event you may host.
Do you provide cake or other decorating supplies?
We do not provide baked goods, event decor, or party supplies. We provide only the entertainment and equipment needed by our performers for their performance and party activities.
Should I tell my guests of your appearance?
It is entirely up to your preference. Surprises are always fun! However, if your child or any of your guests are shy, it may be a good idea to tell them!
The character I would like to book says "Coming Soon". What does this mean?
We are slowly adding to our repertoire of characters, and "Coming Soon" simply means we are either working on making the costume, or we are working to find the perfect person to portray the character. We will guarantee the character will be ready for your event 4 weeks after you book them.