When Hiring a Live Party Entertainer, How Much Time Do I Need?
We have all been there before, there is a party to throw, and all the other kids in class had an Instagram worthy party, and we need to do something BIG! Let's hire some live entertainers!!! Still, we have budgets to consider, so how much time is enough time with a face painter or balloon artist?
Important! Double Check Your List!
First, let's consider the guest list. How many kids have RSVPed? Now, let's think through the list one more time. Are there any relatives or close friends who did not RSVP, but are sure to show up? Are there any guests with siblings who may come unexpectedly? In my experience these unexpected guests can turn a small party into a big bash quickly! Remember, the more fun elements you add, the more excited the kids at school get about the party, and the more of them show up! Of course, we always want to make sure every guest gets an opportunity to get a face painting and balloon!
Face Painting
How long does it really take for a face painter to paint an entire party of children? Remember, this is a birthday party, not a school carnival. While many painters can speed paint from a small select menu for a school festival to keep lines moving fast, the entire point of a birthday party is creating a special day filled with special moments, and that takes a little more time.
Ideally, we want every child to receive a warm introduction and greeting from the artist. They will exchange names and the artist will find out what the child wants for their face painting. A completed quarter face to half face design can take anywhere from 3 to 6 minutes for an experienced painter, including fun elements like glitter. Add to that a few seconds for the mirror moment and the “OH my gosh! I love it!” reaction, which is really everyone's favorite moment! That is the magic, and the reason you hired us in the first place.
Total time averages to 4-6 minutes per child for an experienced face painter to give quality, birthday party worthy designs and a special experience for each child. If you are good at math, that means a good face painter is painting around 12 to 15 faces per hour.
Remember that guest list with the unexpected guests? I recommend not cutting corners on this, as we do not want disappointed kids on the big day. If you aren't sure if you need two or three hours of service, I suggest rounding up. Often, artists have multiple bookings and can not stay later to accommodate extra guests, so it is best to book ahead wisely.
Balloon Twisting
Everyone loves a classic balloon dog, but did you know that balloon twisting has become an amazing art with exciting new complex sculptures too? I was just at a party, and after finishing my line of kids, I had several teens and adults waiting for their balloons too! A good balloon artist makes balloon sculptures that appeal to many age ranges and can be the life of your party!
So let's get to the bottom line, how long does it really take? This can vary, based on design. A simple, classic dog can be done beginning to end including face art in about 2 minutes. Something more complex like a dragon, an octopus or a custom hat can take 3 to 5 minutes. Of course, the most fun is the banter, and conversations that take place. A rushed interaction is never as fun as a relaxed time.
While twist times vary, I generally estimate that a good, experienced balloon twister can produce around 15 balloons an hour. Again, if you are deciding between two or three hours of service, I recommend rounding up in time for the best possible experience! Besides, you never know which adults need a little extra whimsy in their day!
I hope this helps you to know how much time you really need for face painting and balloon twisting talent for your next party or event. If you are local to the Las Vegas, Nevada area, we would love to be your party entertainers! Get a quote for your event today!