Storybook Station at Pearlridge is our home base. You will be required to arrive through the back entrance to pick up costumes and prepare for your events, and you must return directly afterward (unless otherwise discussed and approved) to drop off your costumes and supplies. Before your first event, you will receive training on entry procedures, including door codes and facility access. Please remember that you are responsible whenever entering the space, and all entrances are monitored by video surveillance. Always double-check that doors are fully closed and securely locked when you leave.
Ample parking is available in any of the Pearlridge parking lots. However, during busy times it may take longer to find a spot. You also have the option to park in the adjoining lot across the bridge (easily identified by the light-colored awning), where parking is usually available. If you prefer to park closer during peak hours, be sure to allow yourself extra time.
This video will explain how we do our scheduling and when your call times will be for your to arrive at the office. Rushing to prepare or to get to your events in not acceptable. Giving yourself ample time to prep is a must!
The costumes and our overall appearance are the two of the most important things in our business. Please watch the video to learn some important things regarding costume care and proper appearance guidelines.
PARTY SUITCASE OVERVIEW
Each suitcase theme is explained in a separate video below. Please review the suitcase video for each party type you are scheduled to work so you can refresh your memory before the event.
Always handle the suitcases with care—do not force the zippers, bang them around, or scratch them. Be sure to pack them back up correctly, clearly, and neatly so they’re ready for the next event.
SPECIAL DANCES, MOVEMENT SONGS & GAMES
You need to know these BEFORE you start doing events!
Your mic is programmed to play a superhero training course for all superheroes. A voiceover of a virtual assistant named "Piper Rockwell" will guide you and the kids through the physical challenges. It is a good idea to review this before your first Superhero party. Boys, this includes you!
The Luau package mic is programmed to play "Little Brown Girl." You do NOT have to be a master hula dancer. The adults know this is for fun! If you are booked on a LUAU activity package (mainly Moana characters), you need to know this easy hula to teach the children. We include grass skirts for all the children to wear during the lesson.
The Fairy Package mic is programmed to play a fun "Fairy Dancing" song. Use the following video to learn the basic moves so that you are able to teach the kids the dance at all your fairy parties. As long as you know the moves to the chorus, you are welcome to improve the rest of the song.
On ALL the mics there is a track list of some fun, easy movement songs that can be used at any party. These are very good to use for very small kids who may not understand more complicated activities. Watch this video to hear snippets of the songs and to learn the moves for the Milkshake Song.
At the end of every event, we always do a Gift Ceremony followed by leading the crowd in singing Happy Birthday. At this moment, you must be loud, confident, and in control—the parents are counting on you to guide the celebration and get everyone’s attention. This is not the time to be shy. Step up and lead the entire crowd through the birthday song—yes, that means boys too!
We provide themed gifts that match each character to make this moment extra special.
Handlers play an important role in many of our character events. Their primary job is to support the character by managing supplies, assisting with activities, making sure the client feels comfortable, protecting costumes, and stepping in wherever help is needed.
Handlers must be bubbly, high-energy, and positive, always keeping in mind that the client is always right—even when we know they may not be.
Before entering the event, we must first call the client to prep them for our big entrance. You are also welcome to text them an update when you are first leaving the office to tell them you are on your way. Our Entrances are crucial moments, so we want to avoid having to enter unannounced if at all possible.
All clients will receive a payment envelope that is located in the back of the bag attached to the suitcase. Even if they do not owe a balance, this gives them the opportunity to tip you. Collecting money is never the most comfortable part of the party. Watch this video to learn the best way to present the envelope to your client.
Our actors and artists work as independent contractors and are not considered employees of Storybook. When you begin, you will be required to sign a contract acknowledging this working relationship.
This is not a “pay under the table” job. Taxes are not deducted from your weekly pay—which many people prefer—but you will be responsible for paying taxes on your yearly earnings. Be smart and set aside a portion of your income to cover those taxes.
This video will explain how to earn first priority on bookings and how to submit invoices correctly.
Face Painters are required to follow this video and set up their station following this guideline. All artist are required to be at the event location with ample time to set up and prep accordingly before the event start time. 30 mins is recommended. Please remember to invoice Storybook after each working weekend.
Balloon artists are to use their own supplies but please use our branded apron. Please remember to invoice Storybook after each working weekend.
Glitter tattoo artists are required to follow this video and set up their station following this guideline. All artist are required to be at the event location with plenty of time to set up and prep accordingly before the event start time. 15 mins is recommended. Please remember to invoice Storybook after your event.
Face Painters are required to follow this video and set up their station following this guideline. All artist are required to be at the event location with ample time to set up and prep accordingly before the event start time. 30 mins is recommended. Please remember to invoice Storybook after each working weekend.
Balloon artists are to use their own supplies but please use our branded apron. Please remember to invoice Storybook after each working weekend.
Glitter tattoo artists are required to follow this video and set up their station following this guideline. All artist are required to be at the event location with plenty of time to set up and prep accordingly before the event start time. 15 mins is recommended. Please remember to invoice Storybook after your event.