FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Curiouser and curiouser...

1. Argh! I've never organised a party before, what do I need to do?
Bring in the specialists! Our aim is to help you deliver a stress-free party, we can take care of everything from entertainment to the venue, invitations, thank you cards, party bags, prizes, cakes, balloons and more! And everyone who books a party will receive ‘Hatter’s Helpful Hints for Perfect Parties!’
2. How far ahead should we book a party?
As early as possible! Weekends and school holidays fill up especially quickly.
3. Where should I hold the party?
Many people are happy to have it in their own house. However, a hired venue such as a village hall or community centre offers more space and less hassle. In our Ace option we offer The Complete Party Package which includes a venue of your choice from a list of local venues (subject to availability) that we find and book on your behalf...saving you lots of stress, hassle and time.
4. What is the best time of day for a party?
For weekends, mid-morning or mid-afternoon parties are most suitable - as families are often busy during the evenings. After-school parties can work well too (and we offer a discount for Mon-Thurs bookings)
5. Could we have the party outside?
This is sometimes an option at the right time of the year. However, children can be easily distracted by wasps, aeroplanes, bouncy castles, heat (or rain!) or next door’s dog barking. An indoor party is generally more suitable.
6. How many children should I invite?
Up to 20 is a generally a good size, but it depends on how big the party venue is. Generally, we limit parties to a maximum of 30 children including the birthday child - however we can often accommodate more for an additional fee to cover extra balloons, prizes and planning. Prices available on request.
7. Are your parties more suited to boys or girls?
Both! We tailor parties specifically for all-girls or all-boys, but our general packages are designed to be equally suitable for a mix of both.
8. Do you have CRB checks and insurance?
For your peace of mind, we hold enhanced CRB disclosures (police checks). We are also Equity Registered and have full Public Liability Insurance up to £10million.
9. Where do you travel to?
We currently deliver parties and events between York and Harrogate and the immediate surrounding areas. We can however travel further afield, but charge a small additional travel fee to cover extra time and petrol.
10. Do you do party bags?
As an optional extra we can provide high quality party bags, with the birthday child getting one free when 20 or more are bought!
11. Can you provide a birthday cake?
Not a full-sized birthday cake, but delicious individual cupcakes are available to buy for £1.49 each – these are a fashionable alternative to the traditional birthday cake, and much less wasteful!
12. Do you offer a clown?
No. Many children – particularly younger ones – are scared of clowns. The Magic Hatter sometimes acts like a clown, but without the big scary shoes or painted on smile. Our Hatter is a friendly magician, eccentrically dressed with a silly sense of humour and not at all scary!
13. Do you produce a rabbit?
Not a live one, but The Magic Hatter is often helped by The White Rabbit – a funny, friendly puppet who is always running late! Or there may be a guest appearance from another of the Hatter’s cute companions, such as Roary the baby dinosaur.
14. Do you offer different party themes?
Yes, we are constantly working on new themes and have an exciting range to choose from! Wonderland is a popular choice for boys and girls, but other themes are available too such as Dinosaurs, Princesses & Knights, Wizards and Pirates...we even do Christmas Parties! Please see our Party Themes page for the current list. Don't see the theme you're looking for? No problem, we can also create a bespoke party for an additional cost. Just let us know any specific requirements by contacting us well in advance and we'll do our very best to meet your needs.
15. What age range are your parties suitable for?
We carefully tailor each party to the age of the children attending, but our main Party Packages are most suited to 3 to 7 year olds. For older or younger children, other unique options may be available – please contact us for more information.
16. My child has had a Magic Hatter Birthday before (or has been to a friend’s Magic Hatter Birthday Party) If we book again, will it be the same show?
The best way to ensure a brand new party is to choose a different Party Theme , and we have plenty to choose from. We are also constantly developing all of our parties with exciting new magic tricks, games and balloon models, and if we know in advance we can certainly try to ensure a fresh new show for repeat bookings.
17. Will I need to provide any equipment?
No, we bring everything we need. We may just need access to a small table and chair, and perhaps an electrical socket.
18. How do I secure a booking?
A deposit is required to hold a booking, with the remaining balance paid on the day of the party or event. The deposit is payable by cheque to Magic Hatter Birthdays LTD or through Paypal.
19. What if I need to cancel due to illness or unforeseen circumstances?
Our standard terms and conditions will be sent to you when you book a party or event. There is also the option of purchasing Party Protection Insurance (£7.50) which would allow you to cancel at shorter notice and receive up to a 100% refund. This is completely optional, and offered for peace of mind.
20. What do you offer for events?